PLT4529

Perspectives on world politics

Roger Spegele

12 points
* 2 hours per week
* Second semester
* Clayton

Objectives On successful completion of this subject students should be able to show that they comprehend the many ways in which theories of international politics shape, and are shaped by, political philosophy, both classical and modern and to demonstrate their knowledge of a range of theories in international relations, including Kantian and Neo-Kantian theories; Marxist theories; critical theories of international relations; constructivist theories; poststructuralist and postmodernist theories; and feminist theories.

Synopsis The central focus of this seminar will be on neo-Kantian and postmodernist conceptions of international relations, that is, on all those conceptions of international relations which purport to assist us in achieving justice and morality in international relations.

Assessment Essay (6000 words): 50%
* Examination (3 hours): 50%

Recommended texts

Kegley C Jr Controversies in international relations theory St Martin's Press, 1995
Linklater A Beyond realism and Marxism: Critical theory and international relations Macmillan, 1989
Peterson V S and Runyan A Global gender issues Westview Press, 1993
Spegele R Political realism in international theory CUP, 1996