View Specification DocumentSocialism: A global history SPS4009
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Social and Political Sciences
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Either Semester 1 or Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
Some of the most pressing economic and political issues of our contemporary world - from the changing geopolitical role of Russia to the economic expansion of China - find their roots in the rise (and fall) of socialist regimes in the 20th century. Socialism, as an ideology and a form of governance, was a defining feature of the past century's world order. This course examines the history of socialism as a global phenomenon. It does so by focussing primarily on its political, economic and diplomatic aspects, as well as cultural and social history elements.
Timetable
Lectures: one hour per week.
Seminars: one hour per week.
Please not this course does not run every session. For further information please check the ESH Moodle page
Requirements of Entry
Enrolment in an MA (SocSci) or MA (arts) Honours programme
Excluded Courses
None
Assessment
One reflection on a primary source ( 2000 words) = 40%
One essay (3000 words) = 60%
Course Aims
The course aims to introduce students to the social and economic history of socialism in a global perspective. It will support students in understanding how questions of social and economic inequality, (under)development, and self-determination have been addressed by socialist societies at the domestic and international level, and with what results. The course also aims to promote students' critical understanding of scholarly debates in the literature on the global significance of socialism, and their political and ideological foundations. Finally, the course encourages students to develop their critical analysis and put forward arguments on the complex heritage of global socialism.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding and systematic knowledge of the global history of socialism
■ Discuss socialism's economic and social ramifications.
■ Critically evaluate theories and evidence relevant to the subject
■ Analyse and reflect upon teleological historical narratives and debates.
■ Demonstrate the capacity to select, analyse, and evaluate evidence and embed it within the theoretical and historiographical framework of the course.