131-474 New Histories of Australian Politics

Usually admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in history.

The subject will examine the ways in which historians, commentators, political scientists and sociologists treat Australian politics, and how their work has shaped the writing of Australian history. It will engage students in different theoretical approaches to class, gender, race and identity, and different methodological treatment of organisation, representation and public life. Topics will include historical writing on political parties of the right and left, Aboriginal politics, the politics of gay activists, religion in politics, environmentalists, anti-globalism and 'anti-political' movements. Students should gain insight into the changing boundaries of politics, and the place of politics in Australian history.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A book review of 1500 words, 40% (due mid semester), a research essay of 3500 words, 50% (due end semester) and seminar participation 10%

A subject reader will be available