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Nathalie Schiffino-Leclercq, Pierre Baudewyns, Vincent Legrand, Min Reuchamps, Ella Hamonic, and Jehan Bottin

Politics impact all of us. Everyday, political decisions impact many areas of our lives. In the 21st century, multiple paradoxes blur our vision of these decisions.

  • In which context are these decisions made?
  • What is power in a multi-level society?
  • Does the state remain the main political actor, if it is in competition with international and regional organizations?
  • Can democracy – pushed forward by the international community – coexist with authoritarian, or even totalitarian, regimes?
  • What is the role of ideologies in contemporary politics?
Read more

Politics impact all of us. Everyday, political decisions impact many areas of our lives. In the 21st century, multiple paradoxes blur our vision of these decisions.

  • In which context are these decisions made?
  • What is power in a multi-level society?
  • Does the state remain the main political actor, if it is in competition with international and regional organizations?
  • Can democracy – pushed forward by the international community – coexist with authoritarian, or even totalitarian, regimes?
  • What is the role of ideologies in contemporary politics?

The course aims at understanding and explaining political phenomena from a critical standpoint.

The course material and exercises are in English but please note that the videos are in French with English subtitles.

What you'll learn

At the end of the course, you will be able to:

  • Define and explain concepts of political science
  • Link concepts with their authors and, more broadly, with the concrete phenomena they refer to
  • Understand how to analyze political events

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Define and explain concepts of political science
  • Link concepts with their authors and, more broadly, with the concrete phenomena they refer to
  • Understand how to analyze political events

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a foundation of knowledge that can help learners understand news and current events
Taught by academics who are recognized for their work in the field of political science
Provides a strong foundation for beginners in political science

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Discover Political Science with these activities:
Organize and review your course materials
Ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of course content by organizing and reviewing all materials.
Show steps
  • Download and organize lecture notes, slides, and assignments.
  • Review materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
  • Identify areas where you need additional clarification or support.
Brush up on your understanding of political science concepts
Refresh your memory on key political science concepts and terminology to ensure you have a solid foundation for the course.
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks from previous political science courses.
  • Take practice quizzes or flashcards to test your understanding of core concepts.
  • Attend a workshop or refresher course on political science fundamentals.
Follow online tutorials on key political science concepts
Enhance your grasp of complex political science concepts through guided online tutorials.
Show steps
  • Identify online tutorials that cover key concepts from the course.
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes on the explanations and examples provided.
  • Complete any practice exercises or quizzes associated with the tutorials.
Eight other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 11 activities
Follow tutorials on complex concepts
Reinforce your understanding of topics such as international and regional organizations by watching tutorials and practicing exercises.
Show steps
  • Conduct an online search for tutorials on the topic of interest.
  • Select a tutorial that is relevant and easy to follow.
  • Complete the tutorial and make notes on the key concepts.
Engage in peer discussions or study groups
Collaborate with peers to exchange ideas, ask questions, and enhance your understanding of course content.
Show steps
  • Join or create a study group.
  • Attend group meetings regularly and actively participate in discussions.
  • Prepare questions and share insights with your peers.
Participate in discussion forums
Engage with other students to ask and answer questions about the concepts covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Log into the course discussion board.
  • Post questions or comments on the topics of your choice.
  • Read and respond to the posts of other students.
Practice applying political science concepts to real-world scenarios
Engage in exercises that require you to analyze political events and apply your knowledge of concepts to practical situations.
Browse courses on Political Analysis
Show steps
  • Read case studies and analyze the political dynamics at play.
  • Participate in mock debates or simulations to practice applying concepts in a simulated environment.
  • Write short essays or reports that demonstrate your understanding of political science concepts and their application to real-world events.
Create a mind map or infographic on a key political concept
Develop a visual representation of a complex political concept to enhance your understanding and retention.
Browse courses on Political Concepts
Show steps
  • Identify a key political concept that you want to focus on.
  • Research and gather information about the concept from various sources.
  • Organize the information in a logical and visually appealing way using a mind map or infographic tool.
Develop a presentation on a political issue
Enhance your understanding and communication skills by researching and presenting on a political issue that interests you.
Browse courses on Politics
Show steps
  • Choose a political issue that is relevant and meaningful to you.
  • Conduct thorough research to gather information and evidence.
  • Organize and outline your presentation to engage the audience.
  • Practice delivering your presentation confidently.
Review the book 'Power and Politics in Global Governance' by Thomas Risse, Stephen C. Ropp, and Kathryn Sikkink
Deepen your understanding of the interplay between power and politics in global affairs through a comprehensive review of this authoritative text.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key points.
  • Summarize each chapter and identify the main arguments and evidence presented.
  • Critically evaluate the authors' perspectives and compare them to other sources.
Create a presentation on a specific aspect of political science
Solidify your understanding of a specific political science topic by presenting it to others.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that aligns with your interests.
  • Conduct thorough research and gather evidence to support your presentation.
  • Structure your presentation logically and use visual aids to engage your audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Discover Political Science will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Political Consultant
A Political Consultant provides strategic advice to political candidates, parties, and organizations. This may involve developing campaign plans, managing public relations, and conducting research. As candidates, parties, and organizations seek to influence political outcomes, they must make important decisions. Knowledge of political science, such as power dynamics and analysis of political events, can help a Political Consultant increase their success rate.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and evaluate policy issues, develop policy recommendations, and write policy briefs for government agencies, think tanks, and non-profit organizations. They apply their understanding of political science concepts, such as power, state roles, and ideologies, to analyze policy impacts and suggest improvements.
Public Relations Specialist
A Public Relations Specialist manages the public image of organizations, including political campaigns, government agencies, and businesses. They may also develop and execute public relations campaigns. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as public opinion and media influence, helps Public Relations Specialists understand how to shape public perception and influence political outcomes.
Lobbyist
Lobbyists represent the interests of individuals, organizations, or businesses before government officials and agencies. They may also provide advice on how to influence public policy. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as power dynamics and political processes, helps Lobbyists effectively advocate for their clients and influence policy outcomes.
Journalist
Journalists write, edit, and report on current events and political issues for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets. They may also produce documentaries or other forms of journalism. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as power structures and political ideologies, helps Journalists provide informed and insightful coverage of political events.
Political Science Professor
Political Science Professors teach and conduct research in political science at colleges and universities. They may also publish articles in academic journals and give presentations at conferences. Knowledge of political science concepts is essential for Political Science Professors to effectively teach and engage in research.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. They may also develop and implement programs, manage staff, and raise funds. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as political power and influence, helps Nonprofit Managers understand how to navigate the political landscape and achieve their organization's goals.
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their countries in foreign countries. They may also negotiate treaties, provide assistance to citizens abroad, and promote their country's interests. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as international relations and diplomacy, helps Diplomats navigate the complex world of international politics and achieve their goals.
Market Researcher
Market Researchers conduct research to understand consumer behavior and trends. They may also develop and implement marketing campaigns. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as public opinion and political behavior, helps Market Researchers understand how to influence consumer behavior and achieve marketing goals.
Social Worker
Social Workers help people in need, such as those struggling with poverty, mental illness, or addiction. They may also advocate for social change. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as social justice and political power, helps Social Workers understand the root causes of social problems and develop effective solutions.
Lawyer
Lawyers represent clients in court, draft legal documents, and advise clients on legal matters. They may also specialize in a particular area of law, such as criminal law, corporate law, or family law. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as the legal system and political power, helps Lawyers understand how to navigate the legal system and achieve their clients' goals.
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret information to provide insights on political, military, and economic issues. They may also provide advice to policymakers and decision-makers. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as international relations and political power, helps Intelligence Analysts understand the complex world of international politics and provide valuable insights.
Campaign Manager
Campaign Managers oversee the planning and execution of political campaigns. They may also develop strategy, raise funds, and recruit volunteers. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as campaign finance and electoral systems, helps Campaign Managers understand how to run effective campaigns and achieve their goals.
Political Organizer
Political Organizers work to mobilize people around political causes. They may also register voters, organize protests, and lobby elected officials. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as political participation and social movements, helps Political Organizers understand how to build support for their causes and achieve their goals.
Activist
Activists work to promote political causes and social change. They may also organize protests, lobby elected officials, and raise awareness about important issues. Knowledge of political science concepts, such as political power and social movements, helps Activists understand how to make a difference and achieve their goals.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Discover Political Science.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of political science, covering a wide range of topics from the history of political thought to contemporary global challenges. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the foundations of political science and how it can be used to understand the world around us.
This classic work of political theory provides a clear and concise introduction to the key concepts of politics, such as power, authority, and legitimacy. It would be a helpful resource for students who want to develop a deeper understanding of the nature of politics.
Examines the impact of globalization on politics, exploring how it has changed the way that power is exercised and how decisions are made. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the global challenges facing the world today.
Provides a sweeping history of the Congo, from its pre-colonial origins to the present day. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the long-term historical forces that have shaped the country.
Argues that the economic and political institutions of a country are the key determinants of its long-term success or failure. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the factors that contribute to economic development and political stability.
Examines the challenges facing democracy around the world, such as the rise of populism and the erosion of trust in institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the future of democracy and how it can be preserved.
Examines the impact of the internet on politics, exploring how it has changed the way that campaigns are run, how news is consumed, and how citizens participate in the political process. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the role of the internet in the 21st century.
Examines the role of information in the modern world, exploring how it has changed the way that we communicate, learn, and work. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the impact of the information revolution on society.
Explores the potential impact of new technologies on human nature, such as genetic engineering and artificial intelligence. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the ethical and social challenges that we face in the 21st century.
Provides a critical examination of the concept of democracy, exploring its strengths and weaknesses. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the challenges facing democracy in the 21st century.
This controversial book argues that the world is divided into distinct civilizations that are in conflict with each other. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the role of culture in international relations.
Argues that the end of the Cold War has marked the end of history, and that the world is now entering a period of peace and stability. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to understand the different theories of history and their implications for the future.

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