Course syllabus - Contemporary Threats to Democracy

Objectives

The course aims to foster an understanding of the challenges and threats facing democracies in the context of societal change. The course encourages critical reflection on how processes such as for example digitalisation, globalisation, the growing influence of non-democratic actors, climate change, environmental degradation and increased inequality challenge democratic institutions and values. The course focuses on how societal changes affect tolerance among social groups, trust in institutions, political participation, polarisation and radicalisation.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, student should be able to

Knowledge and understanding

1. provide an in-depth account of different theoretical and methodological perspectives on democracy and potential threats to it
   
   Skills and abilities

2. critically identify and use relevant sources as a basis for analyzing threats to, and/or protection of, democracy

3. critically analyze how democracy can be damaged by both internal and external threats

4. demonstrate well-developed skills in academic writing and verbal presentation 
   
   Judgement and approach

5. apply a sophisticated academic approach to analyzing democracy-related issues

Course content

The course sheds light on core definitions of democracy.
It also surveys how societal changes such as digitalization, the growing power of authoritarian states, environmental degradation and inequality affect democracy.
Additionally, it analyses mechanisms that may threaten or protect democracy.

Specific requirements

A minimum of six terms successfully completed full-time study at university level, at least three terms of which in Political Science or an equivalent subject. In addition, Swedish course 3 or Swedish level 3 and English course 6 or English level 2 are required. For courses given entirely in English exemption is made from the requirement in Swedish course 3 or Swedish level

Examination

SEM1, Seminar, 2.5 credits, concerning learning outcomes 1-3 and 5, marks Fail (U) or Pass (G).
INL1, Assignment, 5 credits, concerning learning outcomes 1-5, marks Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG).

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.

Grade

Pass with distinction (VG), Pass (G), Fail (U)

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

The course overlaps 7,5 credits with SKA303 Threats Against Democracy.