PLT2050

World Politics and International Law

(ART)

Chris Reus-Smit

6 points + 3 hours per week + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: A first-year sequence in Politics or permission from Head of School + Prohibition: PLT3050

Synopsis: This subject introduces students to the complex and evolving relationship between world politics, broadly defined, and international law. The subject examines the connection between the development of modern international society and the rise of contractual international law, focusing on changing ideas of legitimate statehood and the relationship between international law and multilateralism. It then considers the role of non-state actors in the development and mobilisation of international legal norms. The subject concludes by reflecting on the impact of international law on the global political order, and its implications for the theory and practice of sovereignty.

Assessment: Essay (3000 words): 60% + Examination (1.5 hours): 30% + Tutorial participation: 10%