Politics and Sociology with Year Abroad BA (Hons)

This programme focuses on the relationship between the changing social and economic structure in societies, both developed and developing, and political change. For example is there a clear and discernible relationship between the changing social structure in both Britain and the United States, such as de-industrialisation and the rise of the rustbelt, and the 2016 votes for Brexit and for Donald Trump? The programme also explores more widely defined political and social issues such as where does power lie in Britain, the United States and indeed the world? What causes inequality within and between countries and can current levels of inequality and poverty be justified? Drawing on political and social theorists, both contemporary and historical, the programme explores reasons why, in the context of high living standards (for some), many feel disenchanted and alienated in the modern world. SPIR has particular strengths in exploring the relationship between politics and sociology, particularly in areas such as race, gender, and class, the political sociology of the developing world, citizenship, security and insecurity, globalisation, and in drawing on the political and social theorists who help us to make sense of the modern world.