This course will look at the future of British politics as the UK embarks on a journey into uncharted territory. We will examine some of the key features of the British political system, the themes and topics that have shaped the nation, and some of the major figures who have left their mark on
the UK.
Opening with an examination of British politics and the state it’s in, we will look at how the Westminster model ought to work, and the absence of a written constitution. We will then examine the First Past the Post system, its strengths and its weaknesses, and ask whether the strong two-party system it once supported has a future, as well as looking at the underlying demographic threats to that system. We will look at the major political parties in depth, including how they took their current shape and ask whether they can survive the current crisis and those to come, before considering the effects of devolution – and referenda – on the parties and on the political system.
Finally, we will examine the current state of the major political parties and the challenges that they face in the next few decades following the vote to leave the European Union. We will ask whether the parties are fit to tackle the vast cultural gulfs exposed by the referendum – or whether we could see the rise of our own extreme populists in the years to come.
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of general trends in British post-war politics;
- Identify key controversies and major developments in recent British political history;
- Situate specific issues in British politics within their appropriate political and historical contexts.
