166-029 World Politics in Transition

Formerly available as 166-234/334. Students who have completed 166-234 or 166-334 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 25 points of first-year politics.

This subject examines the transformative dynamics shaping world politics in the 21st century. Should international relations focus upon states, the global economy, gender, social movements, or international organisations like the United Nations? Students will encounter different views on the origins of wars; global ethics; the role of culture; human rights; the link between liberal democracy and inter-state peace; environmental issues; resource distribution; globalisation; interdependency; European integration; and the primacy and role of the nation state. Students who complete this subject should have an appreciation of the contending theories and approaches in international relations; the background to think critically about these theories; and the ability to apply a variety of theoretical approaches to understand and make sense of contemporary international relations.

An essay of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester) and a 2-hour examination 50% (end of semester).

A subject reader will be available