Gender and Political Representation (Summer term 2026)
Content
This seminar deals with the (under)representation of women in politics. The course follows an empirical, comparativist approach. After reaching a basic understanding of crucial concepts in the study of gender, we will assess how a lack of women in politics translates into a gap in substantive representation. Moreover, we will assess how gender norms, a crucial determinant of women's underrepresentation in politics, are transmitted intergenerationally. In the second part of the seminar, we will read several papers that test how gender inequalities are affected by cultural and institutional factors, and how how gender gaps are maintained through demand- and supply-side dynamics. In a final block, we will critically evaluate different mechanisms tackling gender inequalities in politics, such as quotas, role models and language. In session 12, Simone Wendland, who is a member of parliament for the CDU in the North-Rhine Westfalian state parliament, will visit us to discuss her experience of being a woman in politics.
You can download the most recent version of the syllabus here. If you plan to submit a term paper in the context of the seminar, please note the following guidelines.The seminar takes place weekly, on Wednesday (10:15-11:45) in seminar room SCH 100.125.
Material
Week 1: Introduction (15 April 2026)
In this session, we will get to know each other and discuss some logistics about the seminar. Moreover, a brief introduction into the topic is given.Slides
Week 2: Concepts (22 April 2026)
We will introduce crucial concepts in the study of gender in politics, and talk about prominent explanations of women's under-representation in politics.Slides
Demand-side explanations
Supply-side explanations
Cultural explanations
Week 3: Representation
This week, we deal with different conceptualizations of representation and debate whether descriptive representation can foster gender equality in politics.Slides