Course Syllabus
| Danish Politics & Society |  |
| Semester & Location: |
Spring 2020 - DIS Copenhagen |
| Type & Credits: |
Elective Course - 3 credits |
| Major Disciplines: |
Political Science, International Relations, Sociology |
| Faculty Members: |
Brendan Sweeney - brendan.sweeney@dis.dk |
| Program Director: |
Neringa B. Vendelbo - nb@dis.dk |
| Program Assistant: |
Julia Magnuson - jma@dis.dk |
| Time & Place: |
Tuesdays & Fridays, 10.05 - 11.25, V10-A33 |
Description of Course
“Getting to Denmark” was how American politologist Francis Fukuyama described humanity's quest to build “prosperous, democratic, secure and well-governed” societies. Does Denmark really live up to its reputation as a near-perfect society and if so, how did it achieve this?
This course will not provide you with a definitive answer to this question, but it will help you reach important conclusions about why this small, progressive society on the edge of Continental Europe has made such a big impact on contemporary political science. During the semester you will gain a comprehensive understanding of Danish history, culture, politics and economics. You will also be asked to examine contemporary case studies from a Danish perspective, such as the surge of right wing politics, sustainability in the face of climate change, the European migration crisis and Denmark's role on the world stage. Please note that some units in the current syllabus may change as the semester progresses. To avoid confusion always check the next entry on Canvas Calendar for the relevant readings and study questions before class.
Learning Objectives
The main objective of this course is to provide students with a broad-ranging and systematic understanding of Danish politics and society. In addition, the course will also teach students how to compare and analyze political systems, and social issues in other countries, and especially Denmark's Scandinavian neighbours. Through the use of discussions and simulation games, students will avail of a number of tools to sharpen their analytical skills and their understandings of the dilemmas facing modern political decision makers.
Faculty
Brendan Sweeney
Ph.D. (Political Science, National University of Ireland, Galway, 2005), Cand.mag. (Media Studies, University of Copenhagen, 1999), NCTJ Certificate in Journalism (Rathmines College of Journalism, Dublin, 1982). Worked as journalist for many years in different European countries. Information Officer and Project Manager, Danish Institute for Human Rights, 2007-2010. Teacher, International People’s College, Elsinore, Denmark, 2010-2013. Published historical novel Once in Another World, (New Island 2013). With DIS since 2013.
Email: brendan.sweeney@dis.dk
Content:
The course is structured into 5 blocks reflecting the main themes that are treated throughout the course:
I. Intro & history – How we got here.
II. Danish Culture & Politics – the Spirit of Consensus?
III. Political Economy - Financing the Welfare State.
IV. Denmark in a European context
V. Denmark in a global context - From Afghanistan to the Arctic.
Readings
Study questions are assigned for each class. They are meant as a guide while reading the assigned texts – thus enabling students to focus on the essential issues that will be covered in each class.
Note: Some of the readings might be subject to change during the course, but students will receive any new readings in due time to prepare for class.
Please pick up this textbook during the Arrivals Workshop:
Knud J.V. Jespersen (2011): A History of Denmark. Palgrave Macmillan.
In addition to this textbook, the reading materials will consist of academic articles, newspaper articles/opinion pieces, blogposts as well as feature films/documentaries - all of which will be made available on Canvas.
Field Studies
- March 4, 13.00-17.00
- April 15, 08.30-12.30
Academic Regulations
Please make sure to read the Academic Regulations on the DIS website. There you will find regulations on:
DIS - Study Abroad in Scandinavia - www.DISabroad.org
Course Summary:
| Date | Details | Due |
|---|---|---|