British politics: themes and challenges

This course explores the wider themes challenging UK politics. It begins by exploring how the British see themselves, locating this in the crucible of the post-War world. It explores British political culture and how this is shaped by the media - including the tabloid newspapers. The course then explores leadership in British politics, with case studies of charismatic leaders such as Thatcher and Blair. We will explore identity politics and populism, and the rise of a sentiment of anti-politics. Finally, we will look at Britain’s changing place in the world, and how this will shape the country’s future.

This five part course locates British politics in its very particular historical and social context. It begins by looking at how the enormous social and economic changes of the post affected the policies anWar world d positions of the main political parties, looking at the rise of the Labour Party, the pragmatism of the Conservative response, and the eclipse of the Liberals. It examines the foundations of the modern welfare state as they were established in these year s, and reflects on the emotive relationship that the British electorate has with some elements of this such as the National Health Service. This forms the foundation of an exploration of British political culture, and we will also look at how this is shape d by the mass media, in particular how tabloid journalism has affected politics and political life.

We will look at the role of leadership in British politics voters expect from a Prime Minister and the kind of leaders that have been successful, studies of charismatic leaders such as Thatcher and Blair what wit h case , as well as at those key individuals who have shaped governments from behind the leaders’ chair. We’ll move from that to look at how identity has become increasingly central to voters’ decisions, and what that means for the success of populist approaches which frames our final session, looking at Britain’s role in the world, and in particular its changing relationship with its European neighbours.

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes for this course are:

• Discuss the social, economic and historical context of British politics  
• Understand the landscape of the British media and its role in politics and populism  
• Describe the UK’s place in Europe and the world 

Classes

1. Great expectations - Britain’s history and sense of itself – what do the British people believe about themselves and how does this affect and limit what politics can do?  
2. Political culture and the mass media – what power does tabloid journalism have over the success of politicians – and has this changed with the dominance of social media?  
3. Leaders (and followers) in British politics – who are the real powers in politics and why do they succeed?  
4. Identity, populism and anti-politics – is traditional politics under threat from a rise in identity politics and populism?  
5. Britain, Europe and the world – where does Britain really stand in the world and what is its future on an international stage, post-Brexit? 

Required reading

Hague, Harrop & McCormack (2016), Comparative Government and Politics - Chapter 12 - Political Culture  
Markus M. L. Crepaz and Arend Lijphart (2007) Trust Beyond Borders: Immigration, the Welfare State, and Identity in Modern Societies  

Typical week: Monday to Friday

For each week of study you select a morning (Am) and an afternoon (Pm) course, each course has five sessions, one each day Monday to Friday. The maximum class size is 25 students. Your weekly courses are complemented by a series of two daily plenary lectures, exploring new ideas in a wide range of disciplines. To add to the learning experience, we are also planning additional evening talks and events.

Evaluation and Academic Credit 

If you are seeking to enhance your own study experience, or earn academic credit from your Cambridge Summer Programme studies at your home institution, you can submit written work for assessment for one or more of your courses. 

Essay questions are set and assessed against the University of Cambridge standard by your Course Director, a list of essay questions can be found in the Course Materials. Essays are submitted two weeks after the end of each course, so those studying for multiple weeks need to plan their time accordingly. There is an evaluation fee of £65 per essay.

For more information about writing essays see Evaluation and Academic Credit.

Certificate of attendance

A certificate of attendance will be sent to you electronically within a week of your courses finishing.