Germany is the economic powerhouse of the European Union seeking a greater role in world politics. Unification, after the political collapse of East Germany, has increased Germany's political influence. But its economic miracle finished in the early 1990s (at the latest) and unification has stressed German society. Since the late 1980s there have been several waves of increased electoral support for fascist organisations and of violence against minorities. Germany, with one of the most powerful union movements in the world and employers stressing the need for 'international competitiveness' by holding down wages and other costs has seen increased levels of industrial conflict. Social conflict in Austria has been less open. Attacks on the welfare state in Austria have been less than in most other developed countries.

The course will examine the background to contemporary developments, the distinctive features of two countries' institutions, societies and economies, their class structures and political parties. A major focus will be on understanding current issues in the news from Austria and Germany.

An essay and a tutorial paper.

Two lectures and one tutorial a week

Two first-year courses in Political Science, or Post-war German Society GERM2020, or with the permission of the lecturer.