The University of Sheffield
Department of Politics

Taught Masters Modules: POL6280 - The Politics of Ethnic Conflict

Level: MA
Credits: 30

Module Leader: Dr Katharine Adeney 

Description

Questions relating to nationalism and ethnic conflict have become more prominent in political debate since the end of the Cold War, and the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan have demonstrated the continuing importance of constitutional crafting as a means to manage ethnic diversity within states. This module evaluates differing definitions of the ‘nation’ and ‘ethnic group’, examines different state strategies to manage diversity such as multiculturalism, assimilation and integration, and considers different explanations of conflict between different ethnic groups. It then examines in more detail strategies adopted by particular states to manage their diversity. India, America, France, Afghanistan, Iraq, the UK, and Germany are focused upon, but students are encouraged to use material relating to other countries if they have particular knowledge of these cases.

Objectives

This module aims to offer a critical overview for students of a range of approaches to understanding concepts of nationalism and ethnicity and to the management of these identities within multiethnic states by political elites. It aims to introduce students to the different strategies of ethnic conflict regulation and offers students the opportunity to assess critically how these strategies are applied in different countries as well as to consider the comparative implications of the strategies discussed.

By the end of the unit, a candidate will be able to:

Assessment