Course Description
This course aims to examine the political, economic, social, and ideological factors that shape international politics, using the core approach of International Relations. Political theories will also be used to explain international political phenomena, such as the theory of the nation, which later evolved into nationalism; the theory of the state and its elements, such as territory, population, and government; and new phenomena such as globalization, including the COVID-19 global pandemic, a contemporary phenomenon of the 21st century. Essentially, international politics is always characterized by competition, conflict, and war on the one hand, and cooperation and efforts for peace on the other. Efforts to prevent conflict and war include diplomacy and the application of international law.
With the knowledge gained in this course, students are expected to develop a deep understanding of these topics and be able to analyze important events and developments in contemporary international politics and make predictions about future trends.
Expected Learning Outcome
- Explain international politics using diverse perspectives and explain international political patterns.
- Explain the actors in international politics, their roles, and how they interact with each other when establishing international relations at the national, regional, and international levels.
- Think critically about current developments in international politics, including the factors influencing the transformations occurring in contemporary international politics.
- Develop analytical skills through reading books, class discussions/presentations, and writing papers to answer questions such as: why wars occur, to what extent political institutions can promote peace, and why the world is unbalanced in power (economic, political, and armaments).
- Improve collaboration skills through group work to respond to international phenomena such as issues of justice, war, peace, environmental issues, and international trade.
Syllabus
Read the full syllabus here.
