POL3122 : The Politics of Happiness (Inactive)
POL3122 : The Politics of Happiness (Inactive)
- Inactive for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr David Walker
- Owning School: Geography, Politics & Sociology
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
The aims in this module are to enable students: to gain a grasp of the political theory and practice relating to happiness or wellbeing; to examine critically political theories and practices relating to happiness; to consider the tenability and value of happiness as a goal of happiness.
Outline Of Syllabus
The module will look at select theorists and theories from the Ancient Greeks to the present, and will look at contemporary political approaches and policies relating to happiness.
The Meaning of Happiness
Philosophy of Happiness in the Ancient World
Philosophy of Happiness in the Modern World
Economics of Happiness
Liberty, Democracy, Equality and Happiness
Measuring Happiness
Politics of Happiness Around the World: UK; Bhutan; Ubuntu; Sumak Kawsay/Buen Vivir
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
The intended knowledge outcomes are: a good grasp of key ideas of thinkers and schools of thought studied; an insight into how their ideas relate to one another; a critical understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of these ideas; an awareness of the role and significance of happiness/wellbeing in contemporary politics.
Intended Skill Outcomes
The main intended skill outcomes for students are: to develop their critical-analytical ability, their written and oral communication skills, planning and organisational skills, and their teamwork skills.
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 10 | 1:00 | 10:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 4 | 1:00 | 4:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 164:00 | 164:00 | N/A |
| Total | 200:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lectures introduce students to the key themes. The seminars allow for participation by students in clarifying and exploring key ideas and issues. These help to develop critical-analytical and oral communication skills. Essays help to develop critical-analytical skills and written communication skills. Planning and organisational skills are developed throughout module, along with knowledge outcomes, which are tested in examination.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay | 1 | M | 50 | 2000 word essay |
| Essay | 1 | M | 50 | 2000 word essay |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The essays will provide an opportunity for students to explore one of the topics in greater depth. It will assess the student’s ability to research, synthesise, analyse, and critically examine approaches and issues covered in the module.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- POL3122's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- POL3122's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
This is where you will be able to find all key information about modules on your programme of study. It will help you make an informed decision on the options available to you within your programme.
You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.
Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.