POL213 Australian Government And Politics (8)
CSU Discipline Area: History/Art History (HISTO)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
This subject surveys the institutional framework of Australian politics and the political process itself. It examines the Constitution, cabinet, parliament, bureaucracy and federal system; it then looks at the role of parties, pressure groups and the media. Criteria for evaluating the processes and outcomes of liberal democracy are mentioned and applied throughout.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 2 | |
|---|---|
| Internal | Bathurst |
| Distance | Bathurst |
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: POL213
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Prerequisite(s):
POL1%% or SOC1%% or HSC1%%
Enrolment restrictions:
Not to be taken by students who have completed POL101 .
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
* be able to understand the workings of the key institutions of government, having learned the basic facts about them
* be able to understand how the main actors in the political process have an impact on the legislative process and on electoral behaviour
* be able to understand some of the main debates about power, "governability" and "legitimacy"
* be able to monitor political material and contribute more as informed citizens and as members of interest-groups
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
- What is Australian Government and Politics?
- The Parliament and Liberal Democracy
- The Electoral System: Electoral Behaviour and Representation
- The Constitution
- The High Court
- Responsible Government and the Administration of Liberal Democracy
- Political Ideologies
- Interest Groups and Social Movements
- Beyond Liberal Democracy?
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.
