MSc Politics and Society

The relationship between politics and society has changed dramatically. In this master programme we aim to understand the causes and consequences of this change. If you think this is an interesting theme, this master track is the right choice for you.
Western societies are characterised by a new political culture. Voters and parties increasingly focus on hotly contested issues such as national identities, ethnic diversity or immigration. This focus reflects broader societal transformations like globalisation and individualisation.
These days, the political landscape is scattered, with many ‘floating’ and discontented voters. Their electoral preferences frequently change, which leads them to vote for new populist parties as well.
Populist parties might not offer any sensible solutions for societal problems, but they do seem to function as a relief valve for discontented citizens. At least that is what traditional political theory tells us. But how effective are populist parties at channelling discontent? PhD candidate Roy Kemmers of Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB) interviewed disgruntled citizens and made a crucial discovery.
Our unique approach
In this programme, we combine classical and state-of-the-art sociological theories and research with insights from political science in order to obtain in-depth understanding of contemporary politics. Due to this unique approach you will learn to answer topical questions such as:

• What are the causes of political fragmentation and how does this fragmentation affect the way modern societies are governed?
• How does new information, for instance on the effects of immigration, sentencing or vaccine programmes, influence citizens’ political attitudes?
• Why are asylum seekers in some places welcomed by local residents, whereas in other places these newcomers should fear for their lives?
• How does public opinion affect governments' policies?
• What is the influence of interest groups in the political decision-making process?