Course Objectives

The objectives of this course are to:

  1. Provide a historical overview of the emergence of the modern international political system.
  2. Examine the fundamental processes and structures of international relations.
  3. Explore the roles of international organizations, law, and trade in fostering global cooperation.
  4. Analyze the growing interdependence among nations and the implications of globalization.
  5. Understand the factors influencing power dynamics, leadership, and conflict resolution in the global arena.

Overall Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Analyze political processes and their implications within the international community.
  2. Explain the historical significance of the Treaty of Westphalia in shaping the international political system.
  3. Discuss the roles of international organizations, trade, law, and diplomacy in international relations.
  4. Evaluate the impact of globalization and interdependence on modern international relations.
  5. Critically assess mechanisms for maintaining international order and resolving conflicts.

Detailed Course Content

Module 1: Historical Foundations of the International Political System

  • Topic 1: The Treaty of Westphalia (1648) and the emergence of state sovereignty.
  • Topic 2: Evolution of the modern state system.
  • Seminar: Critical analysis of sovereignty and its implications in contemporary politics.

Module 2: Structures and Processes in International Relations

  • Topic 1: Mechanisms for maintaining international order.
  • Topic 2: The external needs and goals of states.
  • Case Study: Historical examples of diplomacy and war as tools of international relations.

Module 3: The Dynamics of Power and Leadership in International Politics

  • Topic 1: Distribution of power and the concept of leadership.
  • Topic 2: The influence of domestic politics on international relations.
  • Practical Exercise: Mapping power dynamics in current geopolitical hotspots.

Module 4: Interdependence and Globalization

  • Topic 1: Growing interdependence among nations.
  • Topic 2: Globalization and its impact on international relations.
  • Group Discussion: Debating the pros and cons of globalization in the modern world.

Teaching/Learning Methods

To achieve the course objectives, the following methods will be employed:

  • Lectures
  • Seminars and group discussions
  • Case studies and practical exercises
  • Multimedia presentations
  • Online discussions and collaborative activities

Modes of Assessment

  1. Continuous Assessment: Assignments, quizzes, and class participation (40%)
  2. Midterm Examination: Written test (20%)
  3. Final Examination: Comprehensive assessment of course content (40%)

Reading List/References

Primary Texts (Essential Readings):

  1. Morgenthau, H. J. (2013). Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace. 7th Edition. McGraw-Hill.
  2. Bull, H. (2012). The Anarchical Society: A Study of Order in World Politics. 4th Edition. Columbia University Press.

Supplementary Texts (Recommended Readings):

  1. Nye, J. S. (2007). Understanding International Conflicts: An Introduction to Theory and History. 7th Edition. Pearson.
  2. Baylis, J., Smith, S., & Owens, P. (2020). The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction to International Relations. 8th Edition. Oxford University Press.

Additional Texts (Optional but Useful):

  1. Holsti, K. J. (2004). International Politics: A Framework for Analysis. 7th Edition. Pearson.
  2. Wight, M. (2002). Systems of States. 2nd Edition. Leicester University Press.

Online Resources:

  1. United Nations. (n.d.). Global Issues. https://www.un.org/en/global-issues.
  2. Council on Foreign Relations. (n.d.). World 101: International Relations. https://world101.cfr.org/.