In current political and public debates migration is often presented as a problem. In this course we look from a historical and global comparative perspective at how, why and by whom migration has been problematised in the last decades.
We analyse the moral panics the media and NGO’s created about issues such as migrant illegality, prostitution, deportations, ethnic riots, criminality and terrorism, and the responses these panics generated in the political arena. Unlike some politicians and journalists believe, these moral panics are not new. Issues are as easily made important as they are forgotten.
After a survey of recent literature, students can do research based on primary source materials such as newspaper articles, visual material (cartoons and photo’s), parliamentary papers or interviews.
Time Table
Semester II, see timetables.
Method of Instruction
Tutorial/Research Seminar; attendance is compulsory (see the rules and regulations of the Department of History, art. 2).
Course objectives
Knowledge of current and older academic and public debates on migration; ability to do research with a variety of primary and secondary sources; ability to present research findings.
Required reading
To be announced.
Examination
Two essays and a final presentation.
Information
With the tutor: Dr. M.L.J.C. Schrover
Enrolment
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