Gender & Political Theory - POL00028H

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  • Department: Politics
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Alasia Nuti
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2019-20

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching cycle
A Autumn Term 2019-20

Module aims

Gender shapes our political and social landscape and our personal interactions. The course examines how gender is a crucial lens to think normatively about political issues, which not only helps understand the limits and assumptions of mainstream theories but it also brings new debates to light. The main issues we will discuss include the sex/gender distinction, intersectionality, marriage and the family, autonomy, equality, the sale of sexual and reproductive labour, pornography, and multiculturalism. In addition to analysing the contributions and challenges of feminist theory to political theory, we will engage with a wide variety of positions within feminism to appreciate the internal diversity of feminist political thinking about these issues. In the module, we will also use the theories under discussion to illuminate contemporary political events. Knowledge of political theory is not a prerequisite of the module.

Module learning outcomes

By completing this module, students will:

  • Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the different yet intertwined dimensions of gender injustice and of the various positions in feminist political theory;
  • Apply independently the theoretical tools acquired in the module to make better sense of pressing political events and issues of gender inequality;
  • Independently explain the use of relevant gender theories and concepts; select and apply these theories and concepts to advance their own opinion;
  • Work independently to analyse pressing gender issues;
  • Communicate according to established academic conventions in the discipline of gender studies and normative political theory to present arguments using the ideas discussed over the module through their final essay;
  • Work independently in light of the values of gender equality and inclusivity.

 

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Essay - 3000 Words		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Essay - 3000 Words		 N/A 100

Module feedback

Students will receive written timely feedback on their formative assessment. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their feedback during the module tutor's feedback and guidance hours.

Students will receive written feedback on their summative assessment no later than 20 working days after submission; and the module tutor will hold a specific session to discuss feedback, which students can also opt to attend. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their feedback during the module tutor's regular feedback and guidance hours.

Indicative reading

Judith Butler, Gender Trouble.

Susan Moller Okin, Justice, Gender, and the Family.

Carole Pateman, The Sexual Contract.

Iris Marion Young, Justice and the Politics of Difference.

Bell Hooks, Ain't I a woman?.

Jennifer Mather Saul, Feminism: Issues & Arguments.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.