Governance and Social Theory

This course provides the theoretical building blocks for research projects in the study of regulation and governance. It focuses on core concepts and frameworks that can be used to understand, unpack and interrogate regulatory and governance puzzles. Students will learn about foundational and contemporary theoretical concepts as well how social scientists apply and refine these through empirical inquiry. In addition, this course aids in developing critical reading and analytical skills necessary for interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary engagement. To do so, it requires students to read written texts, engage on-line resources and participate in structured peer-learning activities. The course focuses on social thought in a broad sense by critically examining ideas that are considered integral to the development of the social sciences, as well as specific advances in social theory and its applications in domains of governance and regulation. This course includes PhD, Masters and Graduate Certificate students in the same class.