Course description
The primary goal of this seminar is to develop the capacity to evaluate existing theories on contemporary armed conflict (inter and intrastate wars) and international cooperation. The course will be divided into two parts: (1) covering the topic of conflict and (2) covering the topic of cooperation. In the conflict part, we will discuss several issues dealing with the definitional problems of conflict, how we can explain its occurrence, and how we can stabilize peace. In the cooperation part of the course, we will tackle questions like: how do the general international theories approach the topic of cooperation? How do they cooperate on issues like human rights? Why do some states cooperate with environmental issues while others do not? What is the role of international institutions in promoting cooperation among states? How is trade influenced by regional powers? All these questions will be addressed and discussed using theories and empirical applications presented in the articles.
Learning objectives
1. The students will demonstrate knowledge of the theories associated with conflict and cooperation.
2. The students will demonstrate an understanding of theories and methods of inquiry that lead to knowledge in the field of conflict and cooperation in international politics.
3. The students will demonstrate an ability to identify and use appropriate information resources to substantiate evidence-based claims.
4. The students will demonstrate knowledge of how the study of conflict and cooperation influences society.
Mode of instruction
Seminar format with active discussions of the readings, complemented with short introduction by the lecturer
Course Load
The total course load of 10 EC is approximately 280 hour and is spent on attending classes (around 30 hours), the required readings (120 hours), the presentation (50 hours), and the final paper (80 hours).
Assessment method
Outline (10%)
Presentation (30%)
Seminar Paper (60%)
Reading list
A list with additional journal articles (syllabus) will be available before the start of the course on Brightspace
Registration
See 'Practical Information'
NB: There are 2 groups, scheduled after one another; please choose enrollment for only 1 group.
Timetable
See 'MyTimetable'