Course Resources Archive

The module explores events in social history that can be considered ‘crimes against humanity’. The module will draw upon theoretical approaches, empirical case studies and evidence to explore the underlying social, political and historical processes that cause these events as well as the implications for national and international communities.

1. Provide a history of empire and colonialism and the role these played in the mass exploitation of different societies.
2. Examine post-colonialism and the legacies of occupation and division.
3. Explore how the concept of ‘race’ has been instrumental in the abuse and exploitation of different groups throughout history.
4. Illustrate the ways in which the idea of ‘race’ has been used by states as the basis of their economic, political, and social organisation.
5. To understand how the process of ‘othering’ has been used to construct and abuse different social groups
6. Examine the different roles international communities have played in escalating or intervening in these events and what the future holds for international cooperation and integration on humanitarian cooperation.
7. Provide an understanding of the concept of genocide; how such events may occur and the lasting effects these may have on national and international communities.
8. Case studies will be selected from historical and contemporary issues.

i. Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of the module students should be able to:
1. Apply and critically reflect on the history and legacy of colonialism and empire;
2. Understand how key concepts such as 'race', racism, discrimination and ethnicity have been applied.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of issues and critical debates within sociological theories of colonialism and racism.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of ideology in state policies toward different groups in contemporary and historical plural societies;
5. Understand the sociological concept of ‘othering’ and apply this to a variety of different historical events.

ii. Skills
In completion of the module, students should be able to demonstrate:
1. an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of social situations;
2. competence in using major theoretical perspectives and concepts;
3. ability to recognise the relevance of sociological knowledge.

Staff/student contact: 20%
Student private study: 80%
Methods include lectures, videos, guest speakers, discussion, individual research

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.