In this series of 13 weekly seminars the relevance (or, irrelevance) for historical research of theories, concepts and models developed in the social sciences will be discussed. The second edition of Peter Burke’s History and Social Theory (Cambridge/Mandel: Polity, 2005) will serve as a guide in this discussion.
Participants will be required to read in advance the relevant section of Burke, as well as a small number of selected illustrative texts. These texts will be selected for the way they demonstrate the use of theories, concepts and models rather than for the way they explicitly discuss them. For each session two students will be required to give a presentation of 30 minutes discussing one or more of the texts from the reader and reviewing some of the existing scholarly literature on the Middle East that uses the theoretical concepts discussed in that week. This literature can be found in the University Library. Two others will act as discussants The last part of each session will be devoted to an introductory lecture by one of the conveners on the topic of the week to follow. In conclusion, students are expected to write an essay of 3000 – 5000 words at maximum (in English) in which they relate the discussions in one of the thematic sessions to their own particular field of research or interest. A full set of the selected texts in photocopy is available at the secretariate of TCMO, building VRIESH4, room 112A.
Timetable
For the most recent update of the timetable click here.
Method of instruction
Will be announced
Required reading
Will be announced
Examination
Will be announced
Information
Nicole van Os (studentcounsellor MA/Research Master)
Blackboard/webpage
Not applicable.
Remarks
Registration via U-twist.
Participants
The course is primarily intended for MA/MPhil students in Middle East Studies, but it is open to MA, Mphil and Ph.D. students from other departments.
Applications can be made electronically through an email to Mw Drs. N.A.N.M. van Os
Overview
To be announced later.