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IR5732   Armed Governance

Academic year(s): 2023-2024

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: Tuesday 11am 1pm

This module will examine the origins, motivations, and dynamics of armed governance. Once considered purely the domain of states and state- like entities, the last several decades have seen the proliferation of violent organizations that govern local populations. This module develops new multi-disciplinary perspectives and frameworks for understanding these governance arrangements. This module interrogates a series of interrelated questions: to what extent do non-state armed groups rule over civilian affairs in areas under their control? How do they do it? Why? What explains variation within and across armed groups in their governance structures and practices? How do civilians respond to governance by armed groups? Why do some collaborate while others resist? Over the semester, students will develop a research project around the governance activities of one non-state armed group of their choosing.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must take IR5704 and take IR5705

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 hour weekly seminar x 11 weeks

Scheduled learning hours: 31

Guided independent study hours: 260

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%

As defined by QAA
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr N J Barnes
Module teaching staff: Dr Nicholas Barnes

Intended learning outcomes

  • Describe the origins and motivations behind governance by non-state armed groups
  • Analyze the different governance behaviors of non-state armed groups within existing theoretical paradigms.
  • Articulate the primary ways that civilians respond to armed governance regimes and why.
  • Write and speak intelligently and persuasively about armed governance.
  • Develop in-depth knowledge about at least one context of armed governance.
  • Complete a masters-level research project.