POLS 2310 Intro to International Relations

This course is a survey of interactions in the global political arena. The course focuses on classic International Relations theories of national power and war. Specific units of study will address state sovereignty, terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, nonproliferation issues, global democracy, rogue states and failed states, intergovernmental organizations, transnational institutions and non-government organizations, human rights and international law, poverty and international development, environmental issues, and other issues of globalization. (3 lect.) SOC

Credits

3 credits

Transfer Status

Equivalent to UW.

Major Topics

Introduction to the field of International Relations Globalization theories and normative politics Sovereignty, war and terrorism Weapons of mass destruction, and nonproliferation issues Democracy as a global institution Rogue states and failed states in the international system Intergovernmental organizations Transnational institutions and NGO’s (non-government organizations) Human rights and international law Soft security issues International political economy Poverty and international development Environmental issues Culture and identity Gender issues Globalization

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Describe International Relations:

10. Perform independent research on a relevant issue of the student?s choice (with instructor guidance), including the application and testing of a prevailing theory of International Relations. Report research findings to the class.

1a. history and role as a sub-discipline of Political Science

1b. as an independent discipline

2. Identify and apply International Relations in the field?s most important theories and models.

3. Recognize basic concepts and vocabulary employed in the field of International Relations.

4. Compare and contrast the role of normative politics and morality in International Relations and theories of globalization, particularly in:

4a. human rights

4b. poverty

4c. soft security issues

5. Research, analyze and discuss global trends in such areas as:

5a. state sovereignty

5b. war

5c. terrorism

5d. human rights

5e. soft security

5f. rogue states.

6. Identify and discuss high-, medium-, and low-intensity conflict.

7. Compare and contrast theories of proliferation and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.

8. Analyze the role of international institutions, transnational actors, and NGO?s.

9. Analyze and discuss global trends and the affects of globalization on the political cultures of individual states and international organizations.

Other Information

Any information placed here must be adhered to by all instructors:

1. Students will employ current technology as necessary part of their research. 2. Students will present and discuss their research to other students via both formal presentations and informal discussions.