2025/26 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

HIST3880 'Parasites' and 'Cockroaches': Ethnic Cleansing and Genocide in the Modern World

20 Credits Class Size: 0

Module manager: Dr Lorna Waddington
Email: l.l.waddington@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2025/26

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module involves a wide-ranging, comparative examination of ethnic cleansing and genocide as it has occurred over the last one hundred years. It fulfils several of the history benchmark criteria, particularly those relating to varied geographical range, engagement of contemporary sources, and issues of continuity and change. The module seeks to evaluate and test the various theories of ethnic cleansing within a firm historical framework, and will include discussion of historical determinants, socio-economic causes and the significance of ethno-national movements. A major part of the module will be devoted to addressing the reaction and response of the international community and international organisations. Furthermore, the course will examine the impact of Cold War influences and decolonisation as well as ethnic cleansing and genocide in the post-Cold War era. <p>Content note: to discuss these themes effectively it is necessary for us to read/look at/discuss material which covers some topics which may be challenging for you. These topics include: genocide, gender violence, racist language, murder, mass violence, and torture. The module tutor can provide more information on this if required.</p> <p>Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.</p>

Objectives

On completion of this module you should be able to:

1. Identify and evaluate the key debates concerning the theories and concepts of both ethnic cleansing and genocide.
2. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the determinants and course of various cases of ethnic cleansing and genocide.
3. Evaluate the reactions these cases provoked in the wider international community
4. Demonstrate the ability to handle problems of change and continuity over time.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module you will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:

- High-level skills in oral and written communication of complex ideas;
- Independence of mind and self-discipline and self-direction to work effectively under own initiative;
- Ability to locate, handle and synthesize large amounts of information;
- Capacity to employ analytical and problem-solving abilities;
- Ability to engage constructively with the ideas of their peers, tutors and published and unpublished sources;
- Ability to present complex ideas effectively.

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Supervision 2 0.2 0.4
Seminar 10 2 20
Private study hours 179.6
Total Contact hours 20.4
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Measured through a variety of formative assessments - contributions to class discussions, oral presentation component, and occasional class problem solving exercises. Throughout the module you will be encouraged to self-reflect on your progress. You will also have the opportunity to meet with your tutor for one-to-one meetings to get feedback on your approach to each assignment prior to the deadlines.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Coursework Presentation 40
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 40

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Exams
Exam type Exam duration % of formal assessment
Online Time-Limited assessment 48.0 Hrs 0 Mins 60
Total percentage (Assessment Exams) 60

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 28/04/2025

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team