The University of Sheffield
Geography Undergraduate Student Handbook

GEO243 Political Geographies

Level 2
Credits 20
Availability Approved for BA Geography; BSc Geography; Geography & Planning
Semester Spring
Prerequisite GEO103 or GEO112
Description The module introduces students to contemporary debates within political geography. Political processes are discussed at a variety of spatial scales, from international politics, through national politics, local and community politics and individual political behaviour. Questions of power, efficacy and conflict are examined at all these scales. Particular emphasis is given to spatial and place-specific aspects of politics. Among the issues normally discussed in the module are: geopolitics and international relations; the state and territoriality; the politics of nationalism and citizenship; welfare regimes and the geography of public policy; civic activism; and individual political participation.
Aims
  1. Discuss geographical issues in geopolitics and international relations;
  2. Discuss geographical issues related to the politics of nationalism, citizenship and state formation;
  3. Examine debates around welfare regimes, the geography of public policy; and civic life and political participation.
Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, a student will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

  1. Understand the role of geography in geopolitics and international relations;
  2. Understand debates on the politics of nationalism, citizenship and state formation;
  3. Understand the geographical nature of welfare regimes, the geography of public policy; and civic life and political participation.
Outline Contents  
Delivery Methods 30 x 1-hour lectures; 3 x 1-hour seminars
Student Contact Hours 33
Supporting Texts
  • Flint, C. and Taylor, P. (2007). Political Geography: World-Economy, Nation-State & Locality (5th edition)
Assessment Methods 2-hour examination (67%), 2,000 word coursework essay (33%)
Staffing
(convenor underlined) 		Professor Charles Pattie, Dr Adam Whitworth plus other staffing to be confirmed
 

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