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Society

Author: Richard Mole
Instructor: Kerstin Zimmer

Credits: 8

• To attain knowledge of the social legacies of imperial and communist rule
• To understand the social structures that have emerged in the region
• To get a sound grasp of the social problems and opportunities created by the transition
• To be able to distil information, present ideas and defend a theoretical position

• Long-term socio-political traditions in Central and Eastern Europe and the communist legacy as essential preconditions for understanding the socio-structural changes now under way
• Main social groups in the post-communist societies, social processes and issues
• Analysis of these issues within broader debates about generational change and EU integration
• Identification of both the commonalties and differences in the development of Central and East European societies

Students have to complete and pass a specified number of module tasks as well as submit and pass one research assignment (essay of 2,500 words).

Example tasks from the Society Module
This task refers to units 1-4.
Give your opinion on the following thesis: “In East European countries, historical legacies left little room for political actors to implement reforms after 1991.” Justify your opinion in approx. 600 words and post it to the discussion board. Between October 27 and November 2, react to/comment on three postings of your fellow students.

Module abstract
Please find a reading example here: Society.