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Understanding Russia

Key information

  • Module code:

    4YYR0002

  • Level:

    4

  • Semester:

      Autumn

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module is intended as an analytical survey course that introduces students to scholarly debates about contemporary Russia. It aims at developing a comprehensive analytical toolkit required for understanding the various patterns and dynamics in Russian politics, state and society.  The module is motivated by the growing prominence of ‘the Russian challenge’ issue in contemporary global political debates and is structured around a series of questions that allow for exploring commonly used explanatory variables as well as key issue areas structuring public and scholarly debates on Russia. 

Assessment details

  • 1,000-Word Op-Ed Piece (30%)
  • Attendance & Participation (10%)
  • Discussion Board (30%)
  • Weekly Quizzes On Readings (30%)

Educational aims & objectives

The aim of this module is to introduce students to key issues and debates about the Russian politics and society. Organized through a series of general questions about Russian history, political economy, foreign and domestic policy and governance issues, the module will introduce students to key analytical approaches and scholarly debates in relation to commonly posed in public questions about Russia. 

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module students will be able to:

  • List central issues critical for understanding Russian politics and society and able to engage in informed discussion of these issues;
  • Demonstrate the understanding of priorities in Russia's domestic political and social development;
  • Analyse the main driving forces of Russia's foreign policy.

 

 

Teaching pattern

1-hour lecture & 1-hour seminar weekly

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.