International Relations Theory (340-0-20)
Instructors
Nathalia Justo
Meeting Info
Locy Hall 111: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM
Overview of class
What is the international? Where is it located? Who gets to claim it? This course addresses the politics of theorizing and practicing the international. We investigate how the ways that academics, politicians, and ordinary people have shaped the category of the international as a realm of possibility have generated and sidelined different political projects. With contributions from philosophy, economics, social theory, feminism, cultural studies, political theory, religious studies, and postcolonial studies, we will scrutinize: a) key works that have inspired and articulated theorizations of the international; b) historical contexts and academic debates inscribed in international relations theory; and c) the relationship between theoretical approaches and political practices. Students will be encouraged to explore and develop their perspectives through participation in class discussions, and written assignments (response papers and final paper, no exam).
Learning Objectives
After taking this class, students will:
- Understand the historical context and academic debates that have shaped international relations theory.
- Appraise possibilities and limits of different theoretical approaches to international politics within the international relations field.
- Demonstrate the relationship between theorizations of the international and political practices as depicted in the news, state policies, and case studies.
- Develop their own voice in relationship with others
Teaching Method
Seminar
Evaluation Method
Three (3) Response Papers (500-1,000 words) 10% of the grade each = 30%
Regular Attendance and Participation in seminar discussion: 20% of the grade
Final Paper (1,500 to 3,000 words): 30% of the grade
Class Materials (Required)
None