Aims and objectives

This module aims to provide an overview of the sociological, political and constitutional contexts that underpin life in contemporary Wales. Combining both empirical and conceptual elements, the module aims to critically explore key issues int he politics and society of Wales including: institutional development; the evolution of the party structure; the impact of economic peripheralisation; the complex (dialectical?) relationship between integration and devolution; the relationship between nationality, class and social values (the much-vaunted 'radical tradition'); patterns of national identity in Wales; the location of power in Welsh life; and regional differentation within Wales.

The module is based on an examination and evaluation of key intellectual debates surrounding these issues. Students will be encouranged to consider these debates in the light of a wide-range of relevant empirical data, including historical, political and sociological analyses. The module will also draw on comparative material in order to provide a broader framework for understanding.

On completion of this module students should be able to:

- critically assess the central intellectual debates concerning the politics and society of contemporary Wales
- evaluate these debates in the light of available empirical data, including historical, political and sociological analyses; and
- place developments in - and debates about - the politics and society of Wales into a broader, comparative context.