Course overview
The course examines how the digital age has transformed politics around the world. Information and communication technologies have deeply changed the private and public spheres, the way people communicate with each other and interact with the state and reshaped our economies. The internet has created new opportunities for political engagement and organisation by providing a democratised platform for the production and consumption of information, but also lends itself to the proliferation of fake news, echo chambers and hate speech. The course explores this complex web of relations, dangers and opportunities and reflects on global and local systems of regulation.
Course learning outcomes
- Apply deep discipline knowledge to understand the internet as a political institution and how it influences political state and non-state actors, private corporations, public policy, and citizens
- Critically discuss and employ a number of normative and analytical theoretical frameworks for thinking about the politics of the internet
- Research, synthesize and present written and oral arguments to a high standard
- Read reflectively and critically a diverse range of texts, particularly in relation to cyber communication and digital environments
- Work cooperatively and communicate effectively in a group, understand and manage groups dynamics and emotional responses and their own role in this context
- Develop the ability to engage in constructive and respectful discussion in a seminar setting
Degree list
The following degrees include this course