| Introduction |
The general purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the discipline of International Relations and to provide them with the theoretical and conceptual tools to understand current world politics. At the beginning of the course we will present the main topics of the discipline, the different levels of analysis and the role of conflict and cooperation therein. Moreover, we will examine how western theories of International Relations such as realism, liberalism and constructivism have understood world politics and we will study some core elements of the discipline, such as the concept of the balance of power, distribution of power, the causes of war and cooperation.
In this course, we will not only study international relations using western lenses, but also by looking at how the Chinese School interprets and analyzes the world. As a case study, we will understand the Rise of China using western theories as a complement to how Chinese scholars interpret it. Finally, we will examine major international organizations, as well as major conflict and security issues focusing on Asia-Pacific.
This course will provide you with the possibility to develop the critical thinking needed in order to understand any issues or problematics in current world politics.
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