International Relations Theory (440-0-20)

Instructors

Karen J. Alter
847/491-4842
2001 Sheridan Road, 3124
Office Hours: By appointment only

Meeting Info

2001 Sheridan GPC/WCAS 5228: Wed 11:00AM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

All discussion of international politics rests on conceptual foundations and assumptions. There is a Western IR canon, which is being increasingly challenged by people who want to ‘decolonize' this canon. China's rise is also raising the question of whether there is a different Chinese approach to IR, or if China will assume already-theorized positions of a revisionist power. We will explore IR theory's conceptual foundations and assumptions, while also leaving room for student interest to shape the last 3 weeks of the class. There is no right way to organize an IR theory core seminar, and the quarter system creates additional challenges. When I went to graduate school, a typical IR core seminar would include weeks on major areas of study in IR, such as war, international cooperation, international political economy, normative theories, the role of ideas in international relations, the democratic peace etc. Another approach might focus on conceptual ideas such as sovereignty, anarchy and power. I have included sample syllabi on our Canvas website, to provide a sense of the variety that exists. We will use as a touchstone theme the changing international order.

Registration Requirements

Junior/Seniors
Graduate Students

Learning Objectives

This is a graduate course where advanced undergraduates may join.

Evaluation Method

The assignments are a practice prelim questions that are answered in 7-9 pages by drawing on class readings. There are two different prelim assignments, with a rewrite option for one.

Class Materials (Required)

readings will be on canvas

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Graduate Students.