Politics

The Transformation of Contemporary Europe

Module code: L2092
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework, Essay

This module examines the major economic and geopolitical developments that have transformed the European continent since the end of the Second World War.

It begins by looking at how the Cold War divided Europe into Eastern and Western blocs, which developed very different political and economic systems underpinned by capitalism and communism.

It then assesses how the Cold War continued to influence politics and economics in Europe, East and West, until the collapse of Soviet communism in 1989-91. This triggered major changes in the post-war order in Europe, leading to the European Union's enlargement to many of the former communist countries.

The last part of the module examines the economic transition and political democratisation of these counties, assessing the extent to which the two models have now converged, and it concludes by evaluating issues of security in Europe in the post-Cold War era.

Module learning outcomes

• To have developed a critical approach to interpreting empirical material relating to the transformation of contemporary Europe
• Have the capacity to synthesise materials from a range of sources.
• Have a basic understanding of different academic approaches and priorities and integrate them into an effective interdisciplinary view.