121-436 The Geopolitics of Peace and Development

Completion of 200 points of study including at least 50 points of geography, development studies or politics.

This subject examines the ways in which geopolitical thought shapes practices of peace and development, and the ways in which peace and development are themselves interrelated. States shape their security and development policies according to their understanding of the geography of the world and other states. It is therefore important to understand these geopolitical reasonings in order to comprehend the causes of violence and poverty and strategies for their elimination. This subject uses key texts and case studies to illustrate the interconnections between geopolitics, peace and development, including a focus on the geopolitical rationales behind Australian and US security and development policies. Students will develop an ability to think clearly and critically about past and contemporary world affairs.

4000 words of written work for 3rd year, comprising a report of 1000 words, an associated tutorial presentation, and a 3000-word essay: 4000 words of written work for 4th year, comprising a report of 1000 words, an associated tutorial presentation, a 3000-word essay, and an associated 20-minute seminar presentation based on essay material for 4th year.