This topic provides an opportunity to explore political issues connected to identity through a case studies approach.
Many of the topics, political issues and key concepts encountered in the four core units of this course are also central to discussions of identity. In a more interconnected, complex world, people become arguably more conscious of, and interested in, their own identity, also in ways that have political implications. For example, since 9/11 there has been increased attention on the significance of cultural and religious identity in global politics. Women and ethnic minorities’ identity can be similarly political, with debates in many societies about the appropriate line between the private and public spheres of life. The media coverage of treatment of cases of genocide and ethnic violence in institutions of international justice point towards the role identity can play in some of the most horrific conflicts of recent times. There are particularly strong links between this topic and the unit on human rights.

Learning outcomes:
• knowledge and understanding of a specific case study and a specific political issue related to identity
• application of relevant key concepts, theories and ideas from the core units to analysis of the case
• evaluation of the case study from different perspectives and in the wider context of global politics
• an experience of having carried out a self-directed, teacher-supported research process and communicating the conclusions of this process through an oral presentation.

Suggested examples
Students must undertake a detailed case study relating to the global political challenge presented by identity, and deliver an oral presentation focused on a political issue embedded in the case. The case studies and political issues below are examples only.

• Religion in Bhutan—role of identity politics in the peaceful evolution from absolutist monarchy to democracy

• Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) marches in eastern Europe from Belgrade in 2010 to present day—are attitudes changing? How and why?

• Class identity in South Africa—how is the role of the working class changing in labour-related politics?

• Race and incarceration in the USA—what are the reasons for, and the effects of, racial profiling in American policing?

• National identity in Hungary—the Fidesz-led government’s use of national identity as a method to rally public support for its policies