The Politics of Slavery

Module code: PL3121

Slavery is now outlawed in every recognised society but, despite this, its effect still continues to be felt around the world. Estimates suggest up to 70 million people worldwide are being kept in some form of slavery. From deep-rooted hierarchies in the Sahel region of Africa to sex trafficking in Europe, bonded labour in South Asia to the nail bars of the UK; slavery is still taking place and impacting the lives of us all.

This module will introduce you to the politics behind historical and contemporary slavery. You'll look at the concept of slavery within political thought, and the major ethical and political questions raised within contemporary debates. You'll evaluate research on modern slavery and its implications for political debate, and critique the importance of political ideas for understanding slavery.