Political Change in Europe

Module description

This module provides a distinct approach to political change overall, with a particular focus on European countries. First, it adopts a broad understanding of political change and analyses issues such as: institutional change, party system change and electoral change, in addition to changes in political representation, participation and accountability. Moreover, it examines different causes of political change such as international, economic and institutional. Second, this module takes a comparative perspective rather than a country-by-country approach. Comparing European countries across space and time offers an opportunity to explore a variety of vital issues and observe political change or stability. By examining a series of common issues in a comparative context, the module aims to deepen the student’s understanding of the politics of individual European states. Third, it focuses on political change in both West European and East European democracies.  

Assessment details

2h in person exam (50%) & 2,500-word essay (50%).

Educational aims & objectives

Specifically, the module aims to:

• equip students with a good knowledge of politics in contemporary Europe
• provide students with a thorough understanding of political change
• develop their analytical skills in systematic comparison that will add rigor to their research and help achieve valid and well founded generalizations
• enable students to engage with a range of issues in European politics.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course students will:

• be able to approach the study of European politics in a systematic, comparative and social-scientific way
• have a broad understanding of politics in a variety of European nations
• apply theoretical tools to think and write about the national politics of European states in relation to broader patterns in Europe - examine key issues in European politics
• be able to consider domestic political developments in the context of European politics
• explain the role of political institutions and their impact on democratic performance.

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.