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POLI_SCI 340-0 : International Relations Theory

Description

Is conflict an inescapable aspect of international relations (IR)? Why do states resort to war? Why, and under what conditions, do states cooperate? Is International Law effective? Does the UN have power? This course tackles these major questions by examining issues in contemporary international politics and applying conceptual frames to understand them.

This course begins by familiarizing students with dominant theoretical frameworks (Realism, Neoliberalism, and Constructivism) and their critiques (Feminist IR, Post-Colonial IR, etc.). We then apply theoretical frameworks to contemporary international issues, organized thematically. This course explores issues of power, sovereignty, and empire in the context of conflict, peace and security, international law, and international organizations. This course is attentive to the centrality of race, gender, sexuality, socio-economic class, and nationality in global politics.