University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: See http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/history/infoug/ugtimetable

This module explores the course of British politics from the second world war until the election of New Labour in 1997, focusing on the intellectual origins and political impact of the Conservative governments led by Margaret Thatcher between 1979 and 1990. With an emphasis on both primary sources and historiographical debates, the module traces the development of the ideological outlook that came to be christened 'Thatcherism', from the anti-planning rhetoric of the 1940s to the perceived 'crisis' facing Britain in the 1970s, before assessing the performance and legacy of 'Thatcherism' in power. By examining the relationship between ideology and electoral politics, the module offers an insight into some of the key trends in the remaking of British politics between 1945 and 1997, as well as enabling an investigation into the means through which intellectual and economic theories are translated into rhetoric and imagery capable of appealing to a popular audience.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass at least 60 credits from {MO1007, MO1008, MO2008, HI2001, MH2002}

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour seminar, plus 1 office hour.

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 4,000-word essay = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M R Petrie
Module teaching staff: Dr M Petrie