Subject: Populism and nationalism are on the rise, in Germany, in Europe and apparently worldwide: Trump in the USA, Brexit in UK, Front National in France, PiS in Poland, the party AfD (Alternative for Germany) in Germany and many others. All over sudden, we seem to find ourselves in an era which we thought we had left behind for a long time, with the European idea of transnationalism, unity and integration under high pressure. Suddenly? Far right populist parties in Europe have a long and lasting tradition and had even been part of European Parliament for decades, with ups and downs in elections. But considering the cultural, social and structural differences between the different countries, why is there a rise of this kind of politics right now? Why has it come to be appealing today? What are the differences and commonalities between the populist parties, movements and agendas in Europe? Is populism a sign of a political and cultural change? Program: In this course, we will read texts on this international phenomenon and on the different organizations, parties and subcultures of this field in Europe. The commonalities and differences will be analyzed in the seminar by comparing and discussing some case studies on populism and nationalism in different European countries. We also want to take a look at the international collaboration of far right and populist groups and their networks. Also we want to take into account different theoretical approaches and methods to analyze current populism and nationalism. Students will participate in working groups on a chosen topic and present their findings in class. Presumably there will be a field-visit in Berlin. The course aims to develop students’ understanding of commonalities, similarities and differences of this phenomenon as well as reflecting upon their perceptions. Is this course suitable for you? This course is open to undergraduate students from the Arts & Humanities and Social Sciences. You should be prepared to study a number of academic texts in English from political, social and cultural sciences and to be interested in analyzing and interpreting cultural and social phenomena. You should be prepared to participate in a working group which presents its findings briefly in class. Workload and Assessment: In order to obtain 5 ECTS credits, students will have to • attend the course regularly (at least 6 out of 8 180 minute sessions); • have studied the biweekly course materials (an average of 30 pages of English texts for two weeks) and prepare questions from these readings for class discussion; • participate in a working group with a presentation in class; • pass the written examination (90 minutes). close