Course Syllabus

 

Course Description

Course Description:

The dramatic surge in polarization and populism is arguably the most important political development of the 21^st century. This course takes a comparative approach in examining the causes, consequences, and potential policy responses to growing political extremism. We focus on the similarities – as well as the differences – between developments in the United States and selected nations in the European Union, including Hungary and Sweden. By developing a greater understanding of the challenges to democracy, we bolster our capacity to formulate effective policy responses.

Learning Objectives

• Develop a nuanced understanding of the main factors – social, political, and economic - that have contributed to the global surge in populism
• Gain insight into the similarities – as well as differences – in the nature of political extremism in the United States and selected countries within the European Union
• Develop a degree of expertise in the distinctive characteristics of populism in Sweden 
• Analyze the process by which support for populism can undermine the foundations of democracy
• Explore a variety of policy options for responding to populism and restoring support for liberal democracy
• To develop and improve a number of  of essential skills – in analytical thinking and in both oral and written presentation - that are vital not only in navigating political studies, but in flourishing in the game of life.

 

Faculty Member

Steve Turner

DIS Stockholm Faculty

M.A. in Political Sociology, Harvard University. Extensive teaching experience in comparative politics, globalization, the welfare state, and multiculturalism. Works as a Leadership Consultant, bringing the lessons from modern psychology and neuroscience to the world of business. Also an avid squash player and kayaker. With DIS since 2016.

Readings

Reading for the course is based primarily on two books:

• Yascha Mounk. The People against Democracy: Why our Freedom is in Danger and How to Save it. 
• The course literature also includes a wide range of videos and articles.  Specific assignments can be seen in the course calendar.

Field studies

1. A boat outing to Vaxholm
2. The Swedish Riksdag (Parliament)

Approach to Teaching

My approach to teaching is based on a core assumption: Learning is a collective endeavour in which the contribution of each individual has an impact on how much is learned overall. Lectures can serve a valuable purpose both in providing useful information and in stimulating creative thought. But genuine learning takes place only when the student takes an active role –in reading carefully, thinking critically, in raising questions and objections, and in listening to others. It is only through engaged dialogue that we have the capacity to enrich our understanding of the world. My expectation is that students will actively engage in the learning process, both inside and outside the classroom.   

The course utilizes a variety of pedagogical methods, including lectures, discussions, student presentations,  and study visits. There is a strong emphasis on discussion and student participation. Everyone is expected to not only complete the readings for each class, but to come to class well prepared to engage in discussion.

Attendance at all lectures and field studies is mandatory.

Note that it is important to check your e-mail and DIS Canvas regularly since presentations, exam info etc. will be distributed here.

A Word on Laptops and smartphones in the Classroom

The default policy for this class is NO laptops or Smartphones in the classroom.  Both academic research and personal experience have shown electronic devices to be an enormous source of distraction and an impediment to engaged discussion as well as learning. Thank you for your understanding. 

 

Evaluation

Attendance/Active Participation:

Your participation grade reflects the importance of being active in this course, which relies in great part on the reflections, discussions, and exercises in class.

Pre-class Prep:

Prior to many class sessions, you will complete a short Canvas quiz based on the readings and concepts addressed in class. 

Final Project: What have you learned about European politics and populism?  To answer this question, you will have an opportunity to choose the format that suits you best.  I am open to a range of options, from a short essay, to a power point presentation, or perhaps a podcast. Please note, however, that you must get confirmation from me regarding the format for the final project.  If there is evidence that AI is the source of your final project, your grade will be lowered.

To be eligible for a passing grade in this class you must complete all the assigned work.

More information on the assignments, requirements and deadlines will be available on DIS Canvas

Grading

Assignment	Percent
Pre-class Prep *	50%
Classroom Engagement	25%
Final Project	25%

 *  Pre-class prep is based on Canvas Quizzes - which are assigned several times each week.  Please note that your grade here will not include the results for one quiz with the lowest results. 

    - Classroom Engagement is based on attendance and your participation in discussions.  Attending class is equal to a grade of 85/100.  Active participation in classroom discussions can raise your grade .

To be eligible for a passing grade in this class you must complete all the assigned work.

More information on the assignments, requirements and deadlines will be available on DIS Canvas.

 

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