Prospectus

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International Politics: Theories and Approaches

Course
2012-2013

Description

Purpose: 1. Deepening the understanding of international relations theories and approaches by examining the core debates that define the field and learning to apply these theories to contemporary global politics. 2. Developing research and presentation skills.

Content: This course deepens students’ understanding of the central theories and approaches to international relations as introduced in the first year of study. It examines a broad range of theories including realism, liberalism, constructivism, the English School, post-modernism, feminism and new institutionalism. It also explores several substantive issues central to international politics. In particular, we look at global governance, the role of non-state actors in international politics, how “power” is conceptualized in IR scholarship, and the debate about positivist / post-positivist IR approaches. Theories and approaches will be explored with reference to real-world events in international politics. These include, for example, 9/11, the war on terror, the Arab spring, the Euro-crisis, the rise of China, human rights, and EU integration.

Methods of Instruction

Lectures and discussion of assigned readings.

Study Material

TBA

Examination

Lectures and discussion of assigned readings.

Schedule
Monday 29 October till 17 December, 15.00-17.00 hrs, 1A33 and
Wednesday 31 October till 19 December, 15.00-17.00 hrs 5B16

Entrance Requirements

Internationale Politiek I en II