In this seminar we will give an overview to different approaches and methods used in the field of employment and minimum wage policy research. That means that we will explore in more sociological perspective the consequences of unemployment for individuals, and give insights into labour market segmentation. Using a comparative policy analysis approach we will highlight different concepts of labour market and welfare state policies as well as minimum wage policies in Germany and the European Union..
Moreover, using a political economy perspective, we discuss present challenges of employment development, as well as structural and institutional explanatory approaches.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Heidenreich M (2022) Social Cohesion in Europe. Between Europe-Wide Convergence and Social and Territorial Inequalities. Territorial and Social Inequalities in Europe. Springer, pp.313-339.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

3 CP (small) Research Proposal (4-5 Pages)
6 CP (medium) presentation and Research Proposal (about 6-8 pages)

The course addresses questions that are at the core of Political Economy and Comparative Politics: How do individuals respond to risk and insecurity? How does uncertainty affect political behavior, preferences and attitudes? In times of shifting social boundaries, technological change, globalization, migration, and climate change, how do such transformations influence how people vote, engage in politics or view the state as such? How does risk, understood in its multiple forms – that is, risk following from economic volatility, fear toward social and cultural change, risk to fall victim to crime or repression – influence the likelihood to engage in political activism, voice demands for state action and shape citizens’ view toward the state?

In the course of the seminar we address different types of risk, covering major theoretical perspectives and scholarly work in IPE, CPE and Comparative Politics: starting with economic insecurity following from income volatility (change in inequality, risk of job loss), technological innovation (automation and digitalization), globalization (off shoring, exposure to the international market) and migration (inflow of refugees, labor market migration), we take into account risks that arise through state failure (e. g. criminal violence and protection rackets) and climate change (responses to natural catastrophes). Moreover, we take into account how risk calculations influence the likelihood to engage in collective action capacity, such as revolt and protest in developing countries and thereby affect the odds of democratization. While focusing on risk, the course teaches classical theories of individual decision-making, preference formation and collective action.
Focusing on the microfoundation of risks and politics, we mainly study individual behavior and preferences, tapping into the political psychology literature and behavioral economics. We will encounter formal models, experimental work (lab experiments, survey experiments, lab-in-the-field), but also quantitative work based on observational data and qualitative case studies. Examples will be drawn from the research frontier on distributive politics and political economy questions on both advanced industrial democracies and developing countries. We discuss challenges of causal identification and research logic.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Mares, I. (2003). The politics of social risk: Business and welfare state development. Cambridge University Press.

Rehm, Philipp (2016) Risk inequality and welfare states: social policy preferences, development, and dynamics. Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

Term paper/Hausarbeit 6CP; Referat und schriftliche Ausarbeitung des Referats bei 3CP/ In-class presentation and written report of presentation topic for 3 CP

What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.

Termine f. Blockveranstaltungen: 3 Tage Ende September oder Anfang Oktober 2025
Termine f. Blockveranstaltungeb: 2 Tage Anfang oder Mitte Februar 2026

Participation in the Introduction to Quantitative Methods in the first half of the semester is a prerequisite for this course. The specialization seminar provides an applied introduction to the use of quantitative methods in political science and international relations. The primary aim is to enable the independent application of multiple regression analysis. The course also introduces more advanced methods including nonlinear models. Participants will be trained and supported to use the statistical software “R” for data processing, visualization, analysis and reporting. Those with prior experience may choose to complete the class work and assessment using Stata.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Kellstedt, Paul M., and Guy D. Whitten (2008). The Fundamentals of Political Science Research. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:
6 CP Research report

This course provides a theoretical introduction to the use of quantitative methods in political science and international relations. It deals with quantitative research design, causal inference, and the assumptions and interpretation of linear regression models. The primary aim is to foster confident understanding and discussion of scientific studies that employ quantitative methods. Participants can earn 3 CPs by completing a take-home exam (5 questions) between 5th and 12th December.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Kellstedt, Paul M., and Guy D. Whitten (2008). The Fundamentals of Political Science Research. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:
3 CP Take-home exam

The course addresses questions that are at the core of Political Economy and Comparative Politics: How do individuals respond to risk and insecurity? How does uncertainty affect political behavior, preferences and attitudes? In times of shifting social boundaries, technological change, globalization, migration, and climate change, how do such transformations influence how people vote, engage in politics or view the state as such? How does risk, understood in its multiple forms – that is, risk following from economic volatility, fear toward social and cultural change, risk to fall victim to crime or repression – influence the likelihood to engage in political activism, voice demands for state action and shape citizens’ view toward the state?

In the course of the seminar we address different types of risk, covering major theoretical perspectives and scholarly work in IPE, CPE and Comparative Politics: starting with economic insecurity following from income volatility (change in inequality, risk of job loss), technological innovation (automation and digitalization), globalization (off shoring, exposure to the international market) and migration (inflow of refugees, labor market migration), we take into account risks that arise through state failure (e. g. criminal violence and protection rackets) and climate change (responses to natural catastrophes). Moreover, we take into account how risk calculations influence the likelihood to engage in collective action capacity, such as revolt and protest in developing countries and thereby affect the odds of democratization. While focusing on risk, the course teaches classical theories of individual decision-making, preference formation and collective action.
Focusing on the microfoundation of risks and politics, we mainly study individual behavior and preferences, tapping into the political psychology literature and behavioral economics. We will encounter formal models, experimental work (lab experiments, survey experiments, lab-in-the-field), but also quantitative work based on observational data and qualitative case studies. Examples will be drawn from the research frontier on distributive politics and political economy questions on both advanced industrial democracies and developing countries. We discuss challenges of causal identification and research logic.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Mares, I. (2003). The politics of social risk: Business and welfare state development. Cambridge University Press.

Rehm, Philipp (2016) Risk inequality and welfare states: social policy preferences, development, and dynamics. Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

Term paper/Hausarbeit 6CP; Referat und schriftliche Ausarbeitung des Referats bei 3CP/ In-class presentation and written report of presentation topic for 3 CP

In this seminar we will give an overview to different approaches and methods used in the field of employment and minimum wage policy research. That means that we will explore in more sociological perspective the consequences of unemployment for individuals, and give insights into labour market segmentation. Using a comparative policy analysis approach we will highlight different concepts of labour market and welfare state policies as well as minimum wage policies in Germany and the European Union..
Moreover, using a political economy perspective, we discuss present challenges of employment development, as well as structural and institutional explanatory approaches.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Heidenreich M (2022) Social Cohesion in Europe. Between Europe-Wide Convergence and Social and Territorial Inequalities. Territorial and Social Inequalities in Europe. Springer, pp.313-339.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

3 CP (small) Research Proposal (4-5 Pages)
6 CP (medium) presentation and Research Proposal (about 6-8 pages)

What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.

Inhalt: This course is a special offer for international students who are interested in Regional and Urban Geography, and the local history of Bremen and Northwest Germany.

• Students understand the historical development of cities and the processes connecting historical events and urban development
• Students understand the basic ideas of (Regional) and Urban Geography and History as a university science
• Students understand the most important historical events that shaped today’s Germany
• Students are able to give presentations about topics that they researched on their own (about an excursion destination as well as a unique city quarter of Bremen

In this seminar we will give an overview to different approaches and methods used in the field of employment and minimum wage policy research. That means that we will explore in more sociological perspective the consequences of unemployment for individuals, and give insights into labour market segmentation. Using a comparative policy analysis approach we will highlight different concepts of labour market and welfare state policies as well as minimum wage policies in Germany and the European Union..
Moreover, using a political economy perspective, we discuss present challenges of employment development, as well as structural and institutional explanatory approaches.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Heidenreich M (2022) Social Cohesion in Europe. Between Europe-Wide Convergence and Social and Territorial Inequalities. Territorial and Social Inequalities in Europe. Springer, pp.313-339.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

3 CP (small) Research Proposal (4-5 Pages)
6 CP (medium) presentation and Research Proposal (about 6-8 pages)

The course addresses questions that are at the core of Political Economy and Comparative Politics: How do individuals respond to risk and insecurity? How does uncertainty affect political behavior, preferences and attitudes? In times of shifting social boundaries, technological change, globalization, migration, and climate change, how do such transformations influence how people vote, engage in politics or view the state as such? How does risk, understood in its multiple forms – that is, risk following from economic volatility, fear toward social and cultural change, risk to fall victim to crime or repression – influence the likelihood to engage in political activism, voice demands for state action and shape citizens’ view toward the state?

In the course of the seminar we address different types of risk, covering major theoretical perspectives and scholarly work in IPE, CPE and Comparative Politics: starting with economic insecurity following from income volatility (change in inequality, risk of job loss), technological innovation (automation and digitalization), globalization (off shoring, exposure to the international market) and migration (inflow of refugees, labor market migration), we take into account risks that arise through state failure (e. g. criminal violence and protection rackets) and climate change (responses to natural catastrophes). Moreover, we take into account how risk calculations influence the likelihood to engage in collective action capacity, such as revolt and protest in developing countries and thereby affect the odds of democratization. While focusing on risk, the course teaches classical theories of individual decision-making, preference formation and collective action.
Focusing on the microfoundation of risks and politics, we mainly study individual behavior and preferences, tapping into the political psychology literature and behavioral economics. We will encounter formal models, experimental work (lab experiments, survey experiments, lab-in-the-field), but also quantitative work based on observational data and qualitative case studies. Examples will be drawn from the research frontier on distributive politics and political economy questions on both advanced industrial democracies and developing countries. We discuss challenges of causal identification and research logic.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Mares, I. (2003). The politics of social risk: Business and welfare state development. Cambridge University Press.

Rehm, Philipp (2016) Risk inequality and welfare states: social policy preferences, development, and dynamics. Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

Term paper/Hausarbeit 6CP; Referat und schriftliche Ausarbeitung des Referats bei 3CP/ In-class presentation and written report of presentation topic for 3 CP

What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.

Termine f. Blockveranstaltungen: 3 Tage Ende September oder Anfang Oktober 2025
Termine f. Blockveranstaltungeb: 2 Tage Anfang oder Mitte Februar 2026

Participation in the Introduction to Quantitative Methods in the first half of the semester is a prerequisite for this course. The specialization seminar provides an applied introduction to the use of quantitative methods in political science and international relations. The primary aim is to enable the independent application of multiple regression analysis. The course also introduces more advanced methods including nonlinear models. Participants will be trained and supported to use the statistical software “R” for data processing, visualization, analysis and reporting. Those with prior experience may choose to complete the class work and assessment using Stata.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Kellstedt, Paul M., and Guy D. Whitten (2008). The Fundamentals of Political Science Research. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:
6 CP Research report

This course provides a theoretical introduction to the use of quantitative methods in political science and international relations. It deals with quantitative research design, causal inference, and the assumptions and interpretation of linear regression models. The primary aim is to foster confident understanding and discussion of scientific studies that employ quantitative methods. Participants can earn 3 CPs by completing a take-home exam (5 questions) between 5th and 12th December.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Kellstedt, Paul M., and Guy D. Whitten (2008). The Fundamentals of Political Science Research. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:
3 CP Take-home exam

The course addresses questions that are at the core of Political Economy and Comparative Politics: How do individuals respond to risk and insecurity? How does uncertainty affect political behavior, preferences and attitudes? In times of shifting social boundaries, technological change, globalization, migration, and climate change, how do such transformations influence how people vote, engage in politics or view the state as such? How does risk, understood in its multiple forms – that is, risk following from economic volatility, fear toward social and cultural change, risk to fall victim to crime or repression – influence the likelihood to engage in political activism, voice demands for state action and shape citizens’ view toward the state?

In the course of the seminar we address different types of risk, covering major theoretical perspectives and scholarly work in IPE, CPE and Comparative Politics: starting with economic insecurity following from income volatility (change in inequality, risk of job loss), technological innovation (automation and digitalization), globalization (off shoring, exposure to the international market) and migration (inflow of refugees, labor market migration), we take into account risks that arise through state failure (e. g. criminal violence and protection rackets) and climate change (responses to natural catastrophes). Moreover, we take into account how risk calculations influence the likelihood to engage in collective action capacity, such as revolt and protest in developing countries and thereby affect the odds of democratization. While focusing on risk, the course teaches classical theories of individual decision-making, preference formation and collective action.
Focusing on the microfoundation of risks and politics, we mainly study individual behavior and preferences, tapping into the political psychology literature and behavioral economics. We will encounter formal models, experimental work (lab experiments, survey experiments, lab-in-the-field), but also quantitative work based on observational data and qualitative case studies. Examples will be drawn from the research frontier on distributive politics and political economy questions on both advanced industrial democracies and developing countries. We discuss challenges of causal identification and research logic.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Mares, I. (2003). The politics of social risk: Business and welfare state development. Cambridge University Press.

Rehm, Philipp (2016) Risk inequality and welfare states: social policy preferences, development, and dynamics. Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

Term paper/Hausarbeit 6CP; Referat und schriftliche Ausarbeitung des Referats bei 3CP/ In-class presentation and written report of presentation topic for 3 CP

In this seminar we will give an overview to different approaches and methods used in the field of employment and minimum wage policy research. That means that we will explore in more sociological perspective the consequences of unemployment for individuals, and give insights into labour market segmentation. Using a comparative policy analysis approach we will highlight different concepts of labour market and welfare state policies as well as minimum wage policies in Germany and the European Union..
Moreover, using a political economy perspective, we discuss present challenges of employment development, as well as structural and institutional explanatory approaches.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Heidenreich M (2022) Social Cohesion in Europe. Between Europe-Wide Convergence and Social and Territorial Inequalities. Territorial and Social Inequalities in Europe. Springer, pp.313-339.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

3 CP (small) Research Proposal (4-5 Pages)
6 CP (medium) presentation and Research Proposal (about 6-8 pages)

What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.

Inhalt: This course is a special offer for international students who are interested in Regional and Urban Geography, and the local history of Bremen and Northwest Germany.

• Students understand the historical development of cities and the processes connecting historical events and urban development
• Students understand the basic ideas of (Regional) and Urban Geography and History as a university science
• Students understand the most important historical events that shaped today’s Germany
• Students are able to give presentations about topics that they researched on their own (about an excursion destination as well as a unique city quarter of Bremen

In this seminar we will give an overview to different approaches and methods used in the field of employment and minimum wage policy research. That means that we will explore in more sociological perspective the consequences of unemployment for individuals, and give insights into labour market segmentation. Using a comparative policy analysis approach we will highlight different concepts of labour market and welfare state policies as well as minimum wage policies in Germany and the European Union..
Moreover, using a political economy perspective, we discuss present challenges of employment development, as well as structural and institutional explanatory approaches.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Heidenreich M (2022) Social Cohesion in Europe. Between Europe-Wide Convergence and Social and Territorial Inequalities. Territorial and Social Inequalities in Europe. Springer, pp.313-339.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

3 CP (small) Research Proposal (4-5 Pages)
6 CP (medium) presentation and Research Proposal (about 6-8 pages)

The course addresses questions that are at the core of Political Economy and Comparative Politics: How do individuals respond to risk and insecurity? How does uncertainty affect political behavior, preferences and attitudes? In times of shifting social boundaries, technological change, globalization, migration, and climate change, how do such transformations influence how people vote, engage in politics or view the state as such? How does risk, understood in its multiple forms – that is, risk following from economic volatility, fear toward social and cultural change, risk to fall victim to crime or repression – influence the likelihood to engage in political activism, voice demands for state action and shape citizens’ view toward the state?

In the course of the seminar we address different types of risk, covering major theoretical perspectives and scholarly work in IPE, CPE and Comparative Politics: starting with economic insecurity following from income volatility (change in inequality, risk of job loss), technological innovation (automation and digitalization), globalization (off shoring, exposure to the international market) and migration (inflow of refugees, labor market migration), we take into account risks that arise through state failure (e. g. criminal violence and protection rackets) and climate change (responses to natural catastrophes). Moreover, we take into account how risk calculations influence the likelihood to engage in collective action capacity, such as revolt and protest in developing countries and thereby affect the odds of democratization. While focusing on risk, the course teaches classical theories of individual decision-making, preference formation and collective action.
Focusing on the microfoundation of risks and politics, we mainly study individual behavior and preferences, tapping into the political psychology literature and behavioral economics. We will encounter formal models, experimental work (lab experiments, survey experiments, lab-in-the-field), but also quantitative work based on observational data and qualitative case studies. Examples will be drawn from the research frontier on distributive politics and political economy questions on both advanced industrial democracies and developing countries. We discuss challenges of causal identification and research logic.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Mares, I. (2003). The politics of social risk: Business and welfare state development. Cambridge University Press.

Rehm, Philipp (2016) Risk inequality and welfare states: social policy preferences, development, and dynamics. Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

Term paper/Hausarbeit 6CP; Referat und schriftliche Ausarbeitung des Referats bei 3CP/ In-class presentation and written report of presentation topic for 3 CP

What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.

Termine f. Blockveranstaltungen: 3 Tage Ende September oder Anfang Oktober 2025
Termine f. Blockveranstaltungeb: 2 Tage Anfang oder Mitte Februar 2026

Participation in the Introduction to Quantitative Methods in the first half of the semester is a prerequisite for this course. The specialization seminar provides an applied introduction to the use of quantitative methods in political science and international relations. The primary aim is to enable the independent application of multiple regression analysis. The course also introduces more advanced methods including nonlinear models. Participants will be trained and supported to use the statistical software “R” for data processing, visualization, analysis and reporting. Those with prior experience may choose to complete the class work and assessment using Stata.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Kellstedt, Paul M., and Guy D. Whitten (2008). The Fundamentals of Political Science Research. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:
6 CP Research report

This course provides a theoretical introduction to the use of quantitative methods in political science and international relations. It deals with quantitative research design, causal inference, and the assumptions and interpretation of linear regression models. The primary aim is to foster confident understanding and discussion of scientific studies that employ quantitative methods. Participants can earn 3 CPs by completing a take-home exam (5 questions) between 5th and 12th December.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Kellstedt, Paul M., and Guy D. Whitten (2008). The Fundamentals of Political Science Research. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:
3 CP Take-home exam

The course addresses questions that are at the core of Political Economy and Comparative Politics: How do individuals respond to risk and insecurity? How does uncertainty affect political behavior, preferences and attitudes? In times of shifting social boundaries, technological change, globalization, migration, and climate change, how do such transformations influence how people vote, engage in politics or view the state as such? How does risk, understood in its multiple forms – that is, risk following from economic volatility, fear toward social and cultural change, risk to fall victim to crime or repression – influence the likelihood to engage in political activism, voice demands for state action and shape citizens’ view toward the state?

In the course of the seminar we address different types of risk, covering major theoretical perspectives and scholarly work in IPE, CPE and Comparative Politics: starting with economic insecurity following from income volatility (change in inequality, risk of job loss), technological innovation (automation and digitalization), globalization (off shoring, exposure to the international market) and migration (inflow of refugees, labor market migration), we take into account risks that arise through state failure (e. g. criminal violence and protection rackets) and climate change (responses to natural catastrophes). Moreover, we take into account how risk calculations influence the likelihood to engage in collective action capacity, such as revolt and protest in developing countries and thereby affect the odds of democratization. While focusing on risk, the course teaches classical theories of individual decision-making, preference formation and collective action.
Focusing on the microfoundation of risks and politics, we mainly study individual behavior and preferences, tapping into the political psychology literature and behavioral economics. We will encounter formal models, experimental work (lab experiments, survey experiments, lab-in-the-field), but also quantitative work based on observational data and qualitative case studies. Examples will be drawn from the research frontier on distributive politics and political economy questions on both advanced industrial democracies and developing countries. We discuss challenges of causal identification and research logic.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Mares, I. (2003). The politics of social risk: Business and welfare state development. Cambridge University Press.

Rehm, Philipp (2016) Risk inequality and welfare states: social policy preferences, development, and dynamics. Cambridge University Press.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

Term paper/Hausarbeit 6CP; Referat und schriftliche Ausarbeitung des Referats bei 3CP/ In-class presentation and written report of presentation topic for 3 CP

In this seminar we will give an overview to different approaches and methods used in the field of employment and minimum wage policy research. That means that we will explore in more sociological perspective the consequences of unemployment for individuals, and give insights into labour market segmentation. Using a comparative policy analysis approach we will highlight different concepts of labour market and welfare state policies as well as minimum wage policies in Germany and the European Union..
Moreover, using a political economy perspective, we discuss present challenges of employment development, as well as structural and institutional explanatory approaches.

Literatur zur Vorbereitung/Preparatory Reading:

Heidenreich M (2022) Social Cohesion in Europe. Between Europe-Wide Convergence and Social and Territorial Inequalities. Territorial and Social Inequalities in Europe. Springer, pp.313-339.

Prüfungsleistungen und CP/Assignments and Credits:

3 CP (small) Research Proposal (4-5 Pages)
6 CP (medium) presentation and Research Proposal (about 6-8 pages)

What are the most important policies to help individuals when faced with contingencies such as illness, unemployment, old age, and child care? And how do policies to address social risks differ across countries or change over time? Traditionally, social policy has been regarded as an area that almost exclusively exists at the national level. Yet recent developments are challenging traditional notions of social policy as it increasingly transcends national boundaries.
This seminar provides an introduction to the study of comparative social policy by also including the international dimension. It gives an overview of the various global patterns and examines the trajectories of reforms, their causes, and their consequences. We start by conceptualizing the Welfare State, internationalization/Europeanization, and major historical developments. Then, different analytical and theoretical perspectives on explaining social policy-making based on national and international factors are addressed. Finally, we discuss the reform trajectories of various social policy areas such as labour markets, pensions, and health care by applying our analytical framework.
Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to critically describe and explain changes and current challenges in the field of internationalized social policy. To receive 6 credits for the course, you are expected to read the literature, actively participate in seminar discussions, and pass the final exam.

Inhalt: This course is a special offer for international students who are interested in Regional and Urban Geography, and the local history of Bremen and Northwest Germany.

• Students understand the historical development of cities and the processes connecting historical events and urban development
• Students understand the basic ideas of (Regional) and Urban Geography and History as a university science
• Students understand the most important historical events that shaped today’s Germany
• Students are able to give presentations about topics that they researched on their own (about an excursion destination as well as a unique city quarter of Bremen