Looking beyond headlines: colonialism and contemporary conflicts

What is the course about?

This course provides a reflection on the colonial, post-colonial and neo-colonial aspects and underpinnings of contemporary conflicts.

We will be looking at several ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Israel, Ukraine, as well as Sudan. Particular attention will be brought to the ongoing role of colonialism, both in terms of the repercussions of ‘actual’ colonial enterprises (post-colonialism), but also of the practices in international relations and foreign policy today that uphold some of the key aspects of the colonial project and continue it under different settings (neo-colonialism).

We will also critically analyse the treatment (or lack thereof) of the significance of colonialism in contemporary conflicts by the media.

What will we cover?

- A historical overview of colonialism, with a particular focus on European imperial powers
- A survey of theoretical tools and lenses to understand what happened after decolonisation and under what forms can colonialism still exist today
- An in-depth look at specific case studies of contemporary conflicts through their media depictions and through the counter-narratives shedding light on the responsibilities of former colonising countries.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Explain the key historical developments of colonialism
- Possess key theoretical tools to go beyond generic accounts of colonialism and to shed light over the continuity and echoes of colonial processes today
- Critically analyse contemporary conflicts with regards to their colonial, post-colonial and neo-colonial aspects
- Critically analyse media reporting on contemporary conflicts, notably questioning the role of racism in reporting practices.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is at an introductory level and is suitable for those new to the subject as well as those who have some familiarity with the topics to be covered. A good grasp of English to keep up with the course and participate fully is necessary. As with most of our history and politics courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will run in person and use a combination of lectures, backed by PowerPoint presentations, and discussions in large and small groups. Material to prepare the discussions will be available on the course website, and will include short extracts from key authors on colonialism, post-colonialism and neo-colonialism, as well as newspapers pieces on the various case studies we will be studying.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional costs but you may wish to bring pen and paper or a digital equivalent for notetaking.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Please explore the politics sections on the website for additional summer and term 1 courses.