POL 206 - International Relations

Credits: 3
3 Lecture Hours

Description
The objective of this course is to introduce students to the concepts and theories within the field of International Relations. Focus will be given to examining the major contending theories of international behavior and understanding the major actors within the international political system. This course will also examine the possibilities and challenges facing the international community as the countervailing forces of globalization and ethnic nationalism shape the international political landscape. Sharp focus on US foreign policy will round out the conclusion of the course.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

Identify the origins and nature of the nation-state system.
Compare and contrast the different models of foreign policy analysis and how nation states interact over time.
Explain the development and structure of the United Nations.
Analyze the international political landscape as it is shaped by globalization and ethnic nationalism.
Analyze the theories of “democratic peace” and “liberal peace” as they pertain to international relations.
Compare and contrast the basic principles of neoconservative foreign policy with liberalism and realism.
Compare and contrast constructivism with more traditional worldviews (i.e. realism, idealism, dependency theory, etc.)

Listed Topics

Competing conceptualizations of state behavior
International political actors (the State, United Nations, WTO, etc.)
Globalization
Ethnic Nationalism
Democratic peace
Liberal peace
The future of the Nation-State system and its possible replacement
US foreign policy (criticism and defense)

Reference Materials
Contemporary text and appropriate AV materials.

Approved By: Sutin, Stewart Date Approved: 07/13/2006

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POL 206 - International Relations