Nationalism, Ethnicity and Post-Colonialism

The course examines identity politics in the wake of colonialism, the revitalization of indigenous cultures and the resurgence of minority political activity within large political units. It covers nation building, ethnification of differences and the post-colonial critique of colonial discourses and hegemonic descriptions of contrasts between "the West" and “the Rest”. The course analyses the rhetorical strategies underpinning different kinds of identity politics and the restructuring of relations this leads to; relations between groups, between minorities and larger communities, between the industrialized world and the Third and Fourth Worlds.

To develop a basic understanding of selected perspectives on post-colonialism, nation building and the politics of ethnic identity.

Lectures/seminars and written assignments (approx.24 hours).
Approved written assignment Deadline: 1 November
4-hour written exam.