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Courses / Modules / PAIR2048 Gender, Power and Politics

Gender, Power and Politics

When you'll study it
Semester 2
CATS points
15
ECTS points
7.5
Level
Level 5
Module lead
Jessica Smith
Academic year
2025-26

Module overview

How can we understand the role of gender in political systems? Why is it important to acknowledge the intersections of gender with race, class, sexuality and disability? What can/should be done about male over-representation in legislatures worldwide? Why are women still missing from many of our highest offices? What is the role of masculinity in campaign rhetoric? Can conservative politicians claim to be feminist?

This module considers these questions and more. It analyses the link between gender, power and representation in politics. The issues of gender gaps in voting patterns and political participation are explored alongside questions of female representation, women’s paths to executive office, and questions of intersectionality. Students will gain an understanding of how inequalities based on gender, race, class and sexuality influence our politics and learn the tools to undertake gendered critiques and analyses of politics.