Topics in Politics and Political Economy

Module description

More than half of the world's population today live in urban areas, and this share is expected to increase. Modern cities are highly complex political and economic systems. But with the complexity also comes the challenge of how to organise them well. This module applies concepts and theories across philosophy, politics and economics to the challenges of urban living.

The module is divided into two parts. The first part will introduce you to the key theoretical debates relevant to the socio-political organisation of the city. We will investigate whether living in the city is qualitatively different to living elsewhere. We will also analyse whether urban citizenship should be separate from national one, and investigate challenges of spatial justice and the possibility of urban democracy. During the second part of the course, you will have a chance to apply this theoretical knowledge to concrete problems and case studies: urban informality, sanctuary cities, housing, residential segregation and proposals for urban independence.  

Assessment details

pitch deck (15%) & 3,000-word essay (85%)

Educational aims & objectives

Module objectives:

- To highlight the specific challenges of urban organisation and broader socio-economic significance of the city

- To identify the key political, philosophical, and economic ideas relevant to the study of the city

- To combine theoretical and practical insights concerning urban challenges

- To apply theoretical knowledge to contemporary urban case studies

- To develop the skills to propose a policy recommendation based on the theoretical frameworks and evidence

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course, students will:

 - Demonstrate accurate knowledge of political, economic, and philosophical ideas relevant to the socio-economic organisation of cities.

 - Assess theoretical ideas from the perspective of their suitability to the urban context

 - Be able to identify key disagreements and challenges of urban organisation

 - Apply theoretical ideas to practical challenges

 - Propose a concrete policy recommendation for a chosen city

 - Develop transferrable skills relevant both relevant to the work in the urban context, and elsewhere

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.