Module description
This module provides an overview of the British political system in theory and in practice. Students will learn about the key British institutional structures such as the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Civil Service, and Parliament. They will learn about key areas of change: the development of devolution, nationalist movements and parliamentary reform. The module will provide an insight into the party and electoral systems. It will also consider how the British political system relates with the outside world, including the aftermath of the vote to leave the European Union of June 2016. Students will combine empirical study with the application of a variety of theoretical approaches.
Assessment details
2,000-word essay (50%) & 24-hour online exam (50%)
Educational aims & objectives
This module introduces the key features and changes in the UK political system since 1979 and discusses the extent to which they are peculiar to the UK or similar to those elsewhere. There is a particular focus on the nature of change over time in the political system, including changes in the legal system, devolution and nationalist movements, parliamentary reform, and the causes and aftermath of the European Union referendum of June 2016. It will explore the UK political system in a comparative perspective, exploring theoretical approaches (such as the core executive approach, and federal and consociational analysis). It will explain the operation and significance of institutions, players and social forces (such as economic trends and national identity). It will provide an awareness of the connections between the external environment within which politics operates and the internal domestic political system of the UK.
Learning outcomes
Having studied this module, students will be able to:
*demonstrate awareness of key features of the UK political system including the role of the Prime Minister and Cabinet government; the legal system; parties and the electoral system, and the UK's relationship with the European Union, international organisations, and foreign states
*critically evaluate different theoretical approaches to key political issues such as: the relationships between devolution and federalism; the applicability of the core executive model to UK government; theses of the presidentialisation of UK government as compared to rival interpretations such as prime ministerial pre-eminence; theories of multipartism in the electoral system;
* analyse and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the UK political system;
* apply this knowledge in written form