After the course the student understands the concept of politicization and has learned to analyze its? different dimensions. The course pays special attention to the impact of politicization on European integration.

The course offers conceptual and analytical tools for understanding politicization and to critically evaluating public discussions about the concept. The course puts a particular emphasis on the ethical questions regarding the concept.

The course will strengthen the students? academic skill by introducing theoretical concepts for analyzing politicization as an object of research. The course will introduce the student to the newest research on the subject.

The course will also provide the student with working life skills. The students will work in groups, organize teamwork, schedule their work and learn to receive and respond to critical feedback.

The concept of politicization features prominently in the discussions on the future of democracy in Europe and the developments of European Integration. Prominent examples of politicization include Brexit, the euro crisis, the rise of variety of populist parties and questions concerning immigration and asylum policies.

The course will analyze the phenomenon of politicization from a variety of viewpoints. What does politicization actually mean and how should we define it? How broad a phenomenon is politicization? Is politicization a new or an old phenomenon? What causes politicization and what are its’ potential consequences? Is politicization a positive or negative development from the point of view of democracy or European integration?

Enrolment happens through contacting the teacher responsible via email from December 1st 2018 to January 7th 2019. Students majoring in political science will have priority access to the course, but students from other subjects or faculties can enroll in the course if places are still available.

Compulsory preceding studies: POLPOP02 Introduction to Political Science, or equivalent studies at sending institution (exchange students).

To pass the course the students are required to participate actively in the classroom, to participate in the group work and present it and to write a short lecture diary and essay. Each lecture will discuss one central theme. The seminar will consist of presenting the results of the group work and discussing their results. The aim is to debate the ethical and political aspects of politicization.

5 ECTS for Bachelor's level completion (POLVOA21 & POLVOA22)
10 ECTS for Master's level completion (POLVOS22)

Further information from the teacher at the beginning of the course.