Department of Political Science and Public Administration

This course examines the concept of political culture, the ways in this is shaped as well as the mechanisms of political socialization. Building on knowledge acquired in core courses, it aims to develop an understanding of how citizens’ political attitudes, norms, and values are formed as well as how these influence and are influenced by the political process.

The course covers both classical and contemporary theories of political culture and explores primary and secondary mechanisms of socialization, such as the family, education, the media and social or political crises. Particular emphasis is placed on gendered dimensions of political culture, issues of migration and otherness, and the role of emotions in contemporary politics. Topics are always approached from a comparative perspective, continuously connecting theoretical approaches and empirical examples.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able:

• To understand key theoretical approaches to political culture and political socialization
• To analyze the mechanisms through which political attitudes, values, and behaviors are formed
• To interpret political developments and phenomena by combining theoretical and empirical tools
• To critically evaluate the literature
• To develop research and academic writing and presentation skills