Studying at York
Global Challenges: From Theory to Practice - POL00012C
- Department: Politics and International Relations
- Credit value: 20 credits
- Credit level: C
- Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
- See module specification for other years: 2023-24
Module summary
This module explores a range of contemporary global challenges, by combining empirical research and theoretical (normative) analysis. Students will reflect on the challenges and barriers to progress, and develop critical, analytical skills to help them propose solutions.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2024-25 |
Module aims
Through this module, you will explore three era-defining issues of international politics. In relation to each of the contemporary global challenges covered, you will be guided to explore the ‘theory’ of what should be done, and the ‘practice’ of what is (or isn't) being done. You will consider examples of good practice for addressing global challenges, and gain a better understanding of accelerants and barriers to progress. With this broad scope, the module consciously draws together scholarship from across ‘normative’ and ‘empirical’ traditions within the discipline of Politics. This will allow you to develop and defend your ideas about the causes, responses and solutions to key global challenges.
Module learning outcomes
On completing the module a student will be able to:
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Identify the core concepts and debates surrounding the origins of and solutions to key global challenges (PLO1).
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Identify theories and concepts to aspects from politics and international relations, using critical reasoning to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses and apply them to relevant issues and case-studies (PLO2).
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Work with appropriate guidance to address problems in politics and international relations, proposing and arguing for solutions through the creative application of appropriate theoretical and practical perspectives, and analysis of empirical data (PLO4).
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Communicate arguments effectively and fluently, including in ways accessible to non-expert audiences, translating key facts and concepts through appropriate media (PLO5).
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Demonstrate a reflective and critical approach, intercultural awareness, and to the ability to identify differing visions of the public good in light of the values of tolerance, inclusivity and sustainability (PLO6).
Module content
This module consideres a range of era-defining global challenges. Each challenge will be examined empirically (why is it a challenge, how did it happen?) and conceptually/normatively (what is it, what should we do). Examples of questions we will ask include: Why is it so difficult to get states to address climate change? Is climate change unjust, and what does “climate justice” look like in a post-colonial, unequal world? What is the source of global inequality? Why does it matter? What is terrorism, and why is it different from other forms of political violence? What is the best counterterrorism strategy?
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Module feedback
Students will receive written timely feedback on their formative assessment. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their feedback during the module tutor’s feedback and guidance hours.
Students will receive written feedback on their summative assessment no later than 25 working days; and the module tutor will hold a specific session to discuss feedback, which students can also opt to attend. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their feedback during the module tutor’s regular feedback and guidance hours.
Indicative reading
Bhavani, Kum-Kum, John Foran, Priya A. Kurian, Debashish Munshi (eds.). 2019. Climate Futures: Reimagining Global Climate Justice. London: Zed Books.
Fabre, Cecile. 2007. Justice in a Changing World. Cambridge: Polity.
Hutchings, Kimberly. 2018. Global Ethics: An Introduction (2nd ed). Cambridge: Polity.
Singer, Peter. 2009. The Life You Can Save. New York: Random House.