HUMN 3090 Understanding Power

This is an archived copy of the 2021-2022 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 101731

Coordinator Norma Lam-Saw Opens in new window

Description This unit aims to explore contemporary understandings of power and its various manifestations in the modern world. Numerous themes are considered including informal and formal mechanisms of power, the uses and abuses of power, resistance, plus various examples of "powered" sites. The unit examines the relation between power, violence and the state. The unit concentrates on a few, influential theorists of power. Particular attention is paid to how power has an impact on the production of culture.

School Humanities & Comm Arts

Discipline Studies In Human Society

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 3 subject

Equivalent Subjects LGYA 1008 - Understanding Power

Restrictions Successful completion of 60 credit points of study in currently enrolled program.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
  1. explore contemporary theories of power;
  2. recognise ways in which theories of power can inform contemporary political ideas;
  3. outline theories of power in Western thought;
  4. discuss the role of power in philosophy and culture;
  5. analyse and critique the traditional understanding of power;
  6. evaluate how theories of power structure the thought of key-thinkers; and
  7. apply knowledge gained in this subject to other areas of their experience.

Subject Content

The content consists of a close analysis of major theories of power from ancient times to the contemporary world. It explores the relation between power and knowledge, power and violence, power and the state, power and discipline, as well as the way that power informs the production of culture.

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Item Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Presentation Not Specified 5 N Individual
Essay 2000 words 50 N Individual
Portfolio Not Specified 45 N Individual

Teaching Periods

Spring

Bankstown

Day

Subject Contact Norma Lam-Saw Opens in new window

View timetable Opens in new window

Parramatta - Victoria Rd

Day

Subject Contact Norma Lam-Saw Opens in new window

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Structures that include subject