SAMFUNNSVITENSKAPELIG EMBETSEKSAMEN HØSTEN 2008
STV-4158B
The exam has two parts. The first part consists of one longer essay that will count for 60 % of the exam grade, whereas the second part consists of a shorter essay question which will count for 40% of the grade.
NB: Indicate the question you are answering in each case by using the labels which are underlined in connection with each question.
I (60 %)
All candidates are to answer the following question:
I: Liberalism vs. communitarianism:
Briefly explain the main differences between “liberal” and “communitarian” democratic theories and indicate what these theories imply should be expected of “good democratic citizens”. Then, on the basis of empirical research results, discuss to what extent citizens in one or more contemporary democracies live up to these expectations.
II (40%)
Answer one (1) of the following questions.
Either: Social capital: How social and cultural conditions relate to the creation and maintenance of democracy has been a question of concern from ancient times. In recent years a good deal of literature has focused on the notion of “social capital”. Briefly explain what the concept of “social capital” refers to and then explain the relevance of social capital for how democracy functions
Or: T.H. Marshall: In an important and influential contribution to the literature on democratic citizenship, T.H. Marshall outlined a perspective regarding the development of citizen rights. Briefly present the main elements in Marshall’s perspective and then indicate some of the most important points in the criticism that has been directed at this perspective.