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Home > Degree Programs > Teaching & Courses > Course Listing > Introduction to International Relations Theory and Practice
ISP-105M: Introduction to International Relations Theory and Practice
Faculty: Joseph Nye
Schedule
| Day | Time | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Day | 9/12 | ||
| Meet Day | W | 2:40 PM - 4:30 PM | RG-20 |
| Review |
Description
Designed to introduce students to the prevailing theories of international relations and how they are used and misused in the analysis of contemporary policy issues. Main topics include: causal and normative paradigms, the definition and distribution of power, systemic explanations, individual leadership and domestic political explanations, international institutions and regimes, globalization and interdependence, transnational relations, and the future of international governance. Policy issues will include: national security strategy, China, democracy promotion, the United Nations, terrorism, and energy security.
The course will be taught as a seminar by Socratic method (i.e., cold calling). Each student will be expected to have completed about 150 pages of reading and to be prepared to participate in each class. Because of the teaching method, the course will be restricted to 40 students. One-third of grades are based on class participation (including a group exercise) and two-thirds on a take-home final exam. (Previously numbered ISP-101M.)