IR3044 Pathways of European State Formation

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

30

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 9

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Planned timetable

10.00 am - 12 noon Tues

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr J S Murer

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr J Murer

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

The State is one of the most foundational units of analysis in International Relations, but where does it come from? This module explores the historical, and often violent, processes associated with the formation of the modern state in Europe, and the implications for the organisation of the economy and political society, as well as its impact for the larger development of the global political economy. Students will engage in how the creation of the state entails the parallel and commitment creation of categories into which bodies are designated, assigned, and condemned. The module begins with the transition from the medieval organisation of European society and concludes with an examination of the role of the state in facilitating and mediating the global economy.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST PASS IR2006

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%

Re-assessment

3-hour Written Examination =100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

1x 2h lecture (x11 weeks); 1x 1h tutorial (x11 weeks); 2 consultation hours with Coordinator (x12 weeks).

Scheduled learning hours

33

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

260

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge of historical political and economic developments that have culminated in the formation of the modern European nation-state.
  • Distinguish between different types of political and economic movements and currents.
  • Develop critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as the ability to closely and critically read texts.
  • Develop skills such as skills will include conflict literacy and the ability to discern the trajectory of European state formation.
  • Hone transferable and key skills such as research methods, critical thinking, formal writing, and presenting oral arguments. Students will also be asked to assess one another’s presentations and arguments.