Courses / Module

Toggle Print

Module ELECTORAL GEOGRAPHY

Module code: GY347
Credits: 5
Semester: 2
Quota: 140
Department: GEOGRAPHY
International: Yes
Coordinator: Dr Adrian Kavanagh (GEOGRAPHY)
Overview Overview
 

This module introduces students to the key themes and debates in electoral geography and the recent literature in this field. It will offer a cogent argument as to why geography and geographical concepts (such as space and place) matter when it comes to explaining political behaviour and in particular electoral behaviour. This module will draw on examples from the Irish and the international context. Key themes to be covered during this module include:
• Electoral systems and how these are expressed in terms of geographical patterns of support both for "major" political parties and for "minor" parties and the levels of proportionality/disproportionality associated with different political systems
• How political parties "use geography" to organise themselves and to maximise their representation levels based on current/expected levels of support
• The shaping of electoral boundaries and how these may impact on the ability of political parties to translate given support levels into parliamentary seat numbers/representation levels, with specific reference to current/past examples of gerrymandering
• The geographical dimensions of "under representation" in political systems with specific reference to different demographic and social groups (e.g. females, younger voters, working class voters, ethnic minorities) - what are the causes and the implications of this, and what measures can be undertaken to increase the representation of these groups

Open Learning Outcomes
 
Open Teaching & Learning methods
 
Open Assessment
 
Open Autumn Supplementals/Resits
 
Open Timetable
 
Back to top Powered by MDAL Framework © 2022
V5.3.3 - Powered by MDAL Framework © 2022