The future of democracy

About this course

The course examines democracy as a contested historical and political idea, including how effective government is understood and whether elections express preferences for identities, candidates, parties or policies. It considers democratic disenchantment, threats to institutions and proposed alternatives such as strongman rule and epistocracy. Teaching combines tutor presentations with questions and answers, quizzes, pair and group activities, and whole-class discussion. Learners are encouraged to take a more active role as the course develops.

What you'll learn

• Explain different interpretations of democracy and effective government
• Analyse how voting can reflect preferences for identities, candidates, parties or policies
• Examine causes of democratic disenchantment and proposed remedies
• Assess historical and contemporary threats to democratic institutions
• Evaluate strongman politics, epistocracy and other possible alternatives to current democratic arrangements

Is this course right for you?

The course welcomes learners at all levels. Some background knowledge of current affairs would be useful, but specific subject skills are not presented as necessary. Participation involves listening to differing views, thinking critically about them, and contributing increasingly to group work and class discussions.

• An open-minded approach to views with which learners may disagree is encouraged.
• The course becomes more participatory as it progresses, with smaller-group activities and wider discussion.
• Learners are expected to engage with short preparatory and follow-up materials outside lessons.

Before you go

• Core readings are provided before lessons to introduce the themes and issues under discussion.
• Brief reading materials are handed out at the end of each session.
• A bibliography and suggestions for further books, newspapers, podcasts, articles and videos are provided. These additional resources are optional.