Political Sociology

The course aims to provide students with the theoretical background for the sociological analysis of political affairs.
Starting out by observing the role the State plays in contemporary societies, the course analyses the main democratic processes (e.g. elections, political participation, social movements, public opinion, and political communication) in the light of the interdependencies and mutual influence between politics and society. The course also assesses the relationships between different social groups (differentiated by gender, generation, education, socioeconomic status, religion, etc.) and the political systems analysed.
Lectures will provide students with the tools necessary for the empirical and comparative analysis of political leanings and public opinion through the use of online resources such as national and international data sources.

Upon completion of the course, students will have the theoretical knowledge to understand the fundamental relations between society and politics.
Students will also be able to access the main sources of empirical data that allow them to analyse political events in an independent and informed manner.
By taking part in classroom learning, students will also develop the soft skills to construct and present an empirically grounded argument on the topics addressed during lectures.