166-406 Politics in the UK

This subject analyses political developments in the United Kingdom and the changing nature of politics, economics and society there. It begins by discussing the context of British politics before and after Thatcherism. The lasting impact of Thatcherism will be measured by examining the policies of the Labour government since 1997 in areas such as the economy, welfare, devolution and the media. In the last section the place of the UK in global politics is analysed in the light of the decline of the British Empire and the links that the UK has forged with the USA and European neighbours.

• demonstrate the ability to identify the relevant themes and issues which the question raises and to answer the question directly in relation to those issues;

• show the capacity to identify relevant materials and literatures and demonstrate a thorough knowledge of them in answering the question;

• use good essay writing skills including the structuring of the argument, fluency and succinctness in style, and appropriate grammar and syntax;

• show evidence of thorough preparation and research including appropriate referencing and bibliographic materials;

• demonstrate the ability to address the subject matter in a systematic and analytical fashion rather than relying on a descriptive approach.

An essay of 5000 words 100% (due at the end of semester).

A subject reader will be available.