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The course is an interdisciplinary exploration of global issues through the lens of sociology and international politics. It will introduce you to core myths, mysteries, and key global historical social structures (connected sociologies) that underpin our understanding of globalisation and the world as we know it. You will be asked to rethink your understanding of contemporary global affairs via an engagement with postcolonial studies, notions of decoloniality, and other critical approaches.
Each week we consider the myths and mysteries surrounding key topics and concepts which will range from History, Race, Colonialism, Capitalism, Science, Nationalism, Migration and diaspora, Cosmopolitanism and Globalisation, to core concepts and ideas like Power, Violence, Ethics, Money, and Knowledge.
No previous knowledge is needed, but some interest in global affairs would be helpful.
This course is for anyone interested in understanding global studies, and in questioning how we see the world.
This course covers a range of topics pertinent to understanding global affairs: History and Knowledge, Race and Colonialism, Capitalism and Money, Science and Insanity, Gender and Sexuality, Nationalism and Violence, Migration and diaspora, Cosmopolitanism and Globalisation, Decolonisation and International Law, Ethics and norms.
The course will be split up into five different themes, with each theme covering two or more weeks, as we consider global affairs and most crucially, the myths and mysteries that sustain it.
Part 1: Creating a World View
Part 2: Structuring the World
Part 3: Inhabiting the World
Part 4: Changing the World
Part 5: Saving, or Destroying the World?
Learning and teaching methods include tutor presentation, discussion, small and large group activities, watching documentaries, film, and research.
There is no formal assessment. Although informal essays may be written, and feedback received, should the student wish.
Your progress will primarily be monitored and supported through observation and discussion.
No materials needed.
Some videos and extracts of texts will be shared in advance of each week's tutorial, as recommended viewing and reading.
Additional resources, sources, and links will be made available to those who wish to explore topics further.
Self-directed study: detailed further / secondary reading lists and videos are supplied by the tutor for this purpose.
Students might go on to studying more about global sociology, or global politics.
Students could go on to study one of the longer courses; on Gender and Society, Contemporary Inequalities, or one of the Race modules.
See how long it will take you to get to college. Please select the campus of the course you wish to study.