PLT1031

Introduction to international relations

Roger Spegele

6 points
* 3 hours per week
* Second semester
* Caulfield
* Prohibited combination: PLT1040

Objectives On successful completion of the subject students should have developed a critical understanding of the nature of relations between nations; the nature, power and limitations of the nation state as an international actor; the nature of moral judgements in the conduct and analysis of international relations; and to have developed an ability to apply key theoretical concepts of international relations to the analysis of empirical case studies.

Synopsis The subject is an introduction to the study of international relations. It focuses on such concepts as sovereignty, power, intervention, nationalism, conflict, and conflict resolution. These concepts are explored in the context of such issues as human rights, refugees, war, arms control, global ecology, new world economy and the collapse of USSR. An underlying theme throughout the subject is an examination of the roles of power and morality in the conduct and analysis of international relations.

Assessment Essay (500 words): 10%
* Essay (2000 words): 30%
* Tutorial participation: 10%
* Examination (2 hours): 50%

Prescribed texts

To be advised