Overview

This module looks at changing approaches to governance that have occurred over the last fifty years. We consider changes in both social and environmental governance. We focus in on the rise of ‘neoliberal governance', which is associated with market-led approaches, a rise in privatization and the devolution of controls and responsibility away from central government. The module explores the history and rationales behind these changes, along with the consequences - exploring a range of global case-studies. Resistance, opposition and alternatives to such changes will be also be covered.

Key topics will include: •Characteristics of neoliberal governance and ‘Neoliberalism’ •Different rationales for changing approaches to governance (across social and environmental issues) •Different approaches to securing power •Changing social norms and behaviours •The interface between environmental change, governance and politics. •Key concepts from social theory and political ecology to explore the above

Case studies to explore the different dimensions and impacts of governance change, which could include: •Privatisation of resources such as water •Welfare reform •Deregulation and devolvement of State power and responsibilities (e.g. for environmental protection) •Commodification and the creation of new markets e.g. ‘ecosystem goods and services’ •New enclosures – including forms of contemporary land grabbing. •Resistance – how and why neoliberalisation is being contested and rejected.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold (C) -Demonstrate a basic understanding of different forms of social and environmental governance. Use relevant examples to illustrate the political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental processes involved, and explain their impacts on society and the environment. Apply core concepts from social theory and political ecology to evaluate case studies.

-good -(B) Clear understanding and thorough knowledge of the different forms of social and environmental governance. Highly structured, accurate and relevant descriptions of appropriate examples to demonstrate the political-economic, socio-cultural and environmental processes involved and their impacts upon society and the environment. Critical evaluation of concepts and case studies. High standard of presentation. Evidence of reading and knowledge of recent developments in the subject.

-excellent -(A) In addition to the above, evidence of substantial reading from a variety of sources (e.g. books, journal articles and research reports), and advanced knowledge of recent developments in the subject. Advanced critical evaluation of concepts and case studies. Elegant and flowing presentation, with flair for subject.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply theoretical frameworks to appropriate case studies to elucidate changing approaches to social and environmental governance.

• Critically evaluate changes in social and environmental governance since the early 1980s.

• Evaluate the impacts of changing approaches to governance on society and the environment, using key concepts from social theory and political-ecology.

• Undertake in-depth analysis of the imperatives, benefits and constraints of a ‘neoliberal approach’ to governance.