Democracy - theories, practices and dilemmas

The course introduces and problematises different theoretical views on democracy based on Robert Dahl's seminal work On Democracy, which informs discussions of key dilemmas for democratic governments in terms of content, procedures, and practices. Central aspects covered in the course are views of demos and the citizen, and the relation between democracy, politics, and governance regarding democratic dilemmas such as authoritarian tendencies, automation and digitalisation, as well as globalisation and marketisation. Towards the end of the course, theoretical arguments about democracy are related to current democratic challenges and dilemmas. The students select a contemporary case of democracy under threat, for example in relation to "fake news" and other forms of manipulation.

Instruction is in the form of lectures and seminars. Some of the seminars are chaired by students.

Progressive specialisation: A1N (has only first‐cycle course/s as entry requirements)

Education level: Master's level

Admission requirements: 90 credits completed in a social science subject, including at least 30 credits at the G2F level or higher, including a degree project worth 15 credits. Upper secondary level Swedish 3 and English 6, or Swedish level 3 and English level 2.An equivalence assessment can be made.

Selection: Selection is usually based on your grade point average from upper secondary school or the number of credit points from previous university studies, or both.

This course is included in the following programme

• Master programme Political Science (studied during year 1)