Advanced Introduction to Theories in the Social Sciences I. Introduction democratic theory

The course aims at developing knowledge on different conceptualisations of democracy as they have emerged in theories and in practices. As such, it introduces key debates in political science and sociology, bridging concerns with theoretical approaches as well as empirical research on democracy within institutions and societies. It includes understanding different conceptions of democracy, the relationship between democracy and equality, democratization and the quality of democracy, democratic backsliding, particularly in relation with anti-equality challenges and the transformation of the public sphere in the age of social media, as well as democratic innovations, resilience and response to contemporary democracy challenges.