University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: TBC

This module introduces students to the comparative analysis of armed groups, such as the Taliban and the so-called Islamic State. The first part addresses important conceptual issues, including the differences between rebel groups, terrorist organizations, and militias. The second part then brings together the study of these different types of groups by investigating the organizational challenges that they all face to varying degrees: recruiting and controlling their members, governing civilians under their control, and using violence effectively. The third part focuses on alliance politics both among armed groups and between them and sovereign states. The fourth part analyzes different outcomes, asking why some groups remain cohesive while others split into rival organizations, and why some groups succeed whereas others fail. In each tutorial, students apply conceptual and theoretical insights from the lecture by comparing two or more different groups from the same country.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact:

Scheduled learning hours: 21

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews:

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr H Tamm
Module teaching staff: TBC