Why do states find it so difficult to coordinate in confronting challenges like climate change, immigration, or the threat of nuclear annihilation? Why have states continued to engage in warfare across history, despite its staggering costs? Is the interaction between states and societies better described as competitive or cooperative? What drives state behavior? What is the role of leaders, elites, and the public in formulating foreign policy? In this course we will explore these questions and unpack some of the prominent theories and evidence political scientists have offered as answers.
Over the course of the semester, students will be introduced to major theoretical arguments about international politics and explanations of the origins of the contemporary international system. We will specifically focus on how the international system is structured, who are the most important actors, the incentives for states to compete or cooperate, and how states and non-state actors employ power and/or persuasion. Theoretical answers to these larger questions will be applied to more specific issues like why do states engage in warfare, how do states seek security for themselves, and how states cooperate. In addition, we will discuss the international politics of economic development, trade, and immigration. The final section of the course will apply theoretical insights to some of the most pressing current issues in international politics.
By the end of the course, students should have a more nuanced understanding of the history of the international system and theoretical arguments explaining the dynamics of international politics. This course can act as a foundation for further study of political science and international relations or simply provide a way of organizing your thoughts about how the world works beyond the borders of the United States. My expectation is that you will be equipped to analyze arguments and evidence about international politics and be confident in advancing your own views, supported by evidence.
Over the course of the semester, students will be introduced to major theoretical arguments about international politics and explanations of the origins of the contemporary international system. We will specifically focus on how the international system is structured, who are the most important actors, the incentives for states to compete or cooperate, and how states and non-state actors employ power and/or persuasion. Theoretical answers to these larger questions will be applied to more specific issues like why do states engage in warfare, how do states seek security for themselves, and how states cooperate. In addition, we will discuss the international politics of economic development, trade, and immigration. The final section of the course will apply theoretical insights to some of the most pressing current issues in international politics.
By the end of the course, students should have a more nuanced understanding of the history of the international system and theoretical arguments explaining the dynamics of international politics. This course can act as a foundation for further study of political science and international relations or simply provide a way of organizing your thoughts about how the world works beyond the borders of the United States. My expectation is that you will be equipped to analyze arguments and evidence about international politics and be confident in advancing your own views, supported by evidence.
- Teacher: Jason Hartwig