Entry requirements

This is a continuing course at undergraduate level that requires at least 30 Swedish higher education credits in political science or corresponding knowledge. 'Corresponding' includes studies in social sciences with extensive and distinct elements of political science. This course is taught only for exchange students.

Learning outcomes

The course has two overarching goals. The first is to deepen the students’ knowledge and understanding of the ‘collective action dilemma’ from a social science perspective. The second goal is to acquaint the students with two important, and interdependent, global problems: climate change and energy. As a corollary to these two goals the course will also analyse and discuss possible political solutions to the management of climate and energy issues (as well as dilemmas over natural resources more generally). To this end, the course will examine possible solutions at the local, regional, and international levels.

At the global and the regional level, emphasis will be placed on international cooperation on climate change and the European Union’s role in the struggle to combat climate change. At the local level, the course will focus on how energy and climate politics are played out in developing countries. Upon the completion of this course the students are expected to thoroughly understand the interface between politics and the challenge of addressing environmental problems and managing limited natural resources. The intent is also to provide a good foundation for students who want to pursue this topic in a C level essay in Development studies or Political Science.

Content

The course consists of three parts:

(1) Collective action problems and environmental challenges in developing and developed countries; (2) Energy and technology; (3) Regional and international efforts to address climate change.

Instruction

The course is composed of a mixture of lectures and seminars. The lectures address the basic themes and issues. During the seminar students get the opportunity to discuss questions linked to the basic themes.

The literature includes articles and working material.

The course is taught in English.

Assessment

Examination is based upon participation in compulsory elements of the course and a written exam. The following grades will be applied: passed with distinction (VG), passed (G) and failed (U).

In order to pass the following is required:

(1) Active participation during compulsory elements of the course (seminars);

(2) A passing grade on the written exam

To pass the course with distinction the student is required to participate in compulsory elements of the course as well as receiving a grade of ‘passed with distinction’ on the written exam. If you miss a seminar due to illness, you must do an alternative assignment. If you miss more than one seminar (or fail to hand in the makeup on time), you must attend and makeup the seminar the next time the course is offered.