Studying at York
Elections and Voting Behaviour - POL00084I
- Department: Politics and International Relations
- Credit value: 20 credits
- Credit level: I
- Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
Module summary
The module offers an introduction to voting behaviour from a comparative perspective, comparing cases across the world. In each session, students will be introduced to major theories of voting and empirical evidence over time and across contexts. In this sense this module is ideally suited for (but not limited to) students who will choose to follow the quantitative pathway.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2024-25 |
Module aims
The module offers an introduction to voting behaviour from a comparative perspective. Voting is the cornerstone of the democratic process and its study is essential for any politics student. The module employs theoretical tools from political science, sociology, and psychology from the last six decades to introduce students to fundamental questions and debates on how citizens decide in elections. In each session, students will be introduced to both traditional and contemporary theories around voting. They will be called to critically evaluate the merits and limitations of each theory for understanding elections around the word. Emphasis will be placed on empirical evidence over time and across contexts. Core questions include: What inequalities exist around voting? Why do some citizens participate in elections while others abstain? What are the main determinants of the vote? Why do some people choose to support populist candidates and parties? How do external shocks such as an economic crises affect voting behaviour? What is the impact of generational replacement and increased diversity on election outcomes? Do political campaigns matter? How do different electoral systems operate, and what are their strengths and weaknesses? To develop their career opportunities, students will also have the opportunity to hear first-hand from those working in the polling industry (such as YouGov or the British Election Study), via a guest lecture.
Module learning outcomes
On completing the year/module students will be able to:
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Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the origins, evolution and contemporary dynamics of politics with an in-depth engagement with its international dimensions. [Knowledgeable Agent]
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Apply with minimum guidance theories, concepts and methods to aspects of politics and/or international relations, using critical reasoning and (where appropriate) empirical testing to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. [Critical Thinker]
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Research with minimum guidance by: conceiving research questions; explaining the use of theories and concepts; selecting and applying appropriate tools to gather and interpret data; and justifying conclusions. [Researcher]
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Work with minimum guidance to address problems in politics and international relations, working towards solutions through the creative application of appropriate theoretical and practical perspectives, and analysis of empirical data. [Problem Solver]
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Communicate arguments effectively and fluently, translating detailed ideas through appropriate media. [Engaged Communicator]
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Demonstrate a reflective and critical approach, intercultural awareness, and appreciation of differing visions of the public good have wider social and environmental implications [Reflective learner]
Module content
The module is ideally suited for (but not limited to) students who will choose to follow the quantitative pathway, as it provides them with practical skills for employment.
Due to its comparative nature, it is an ideal extension to the S1 module in Comparative Politics.
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
Arzheimer, K., Lewis-Beck, M. S., & Evans, J. (2016). The Sage handbook of electoral behaviour. The SAGE Handbook of Electoral Behaviour.
De Vries, C. E., & Hobolt, S. B. (2020). Political entrepreneurs. Princeton University Press
Fisher, J., Fieldhouse, E., Franklin, M. N., Gibson, R., Cantijoch, M., & Wlezien, C. (Eds.). (2020). The Routledge handbook of elections, voting behavior and public opinion. London: Routledge.
Fraga, B. L. (2018). The turnout gap: Race, ethnicity, and political inequality in a diversifying America. Cambridge University Press.