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I. Course DescriptionInternational relations encompasses more today than just relations between governments. This course will place the emphasis on the various actors in international relations. Central to the course are utilizing the advantage of living abroad for a semester. This includes following closely current events and attending local conferences. Students will write short papers and give presentations, while reading assigned texts and drawing frequently on Franco-American relations as a case study.
II. RationaleThe fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the Soviet Union marked the end of the Cold-war and the beginning of a new era in international relations. As the world opened up its borders, it grew ever closer in a phenomenon called globalization. Technological advances in communication during this same era have had a profound effect on the central-role of the state in international relations, by empowering non-state actors, such as multinational corporations, and NGOs as well as supra-national actors such as the European Union. It has also empowered those disenchanted with the international system, terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda. This course will place an emphasis on how international relations have changed as a result of globalization in order to better understand the rapidly changing world in which we live in today.
III. Primary Textbooks
Joshua S. Goldstein and Jon C. Pevehouse, "International Relations", New York, Pearson Press,8th ed., 2008.
Friedman, Thomas L. "The World is Flat: a brief history of the 21st century", New York, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1st ed., 2005. The textbook will provide the foundation for many parts of the course and the "The World is Flat" will provide an basis for understanding globalization. Supplemental readings such as newspapers and weekly magazines are required to compliment this course.
IV. Course Objectives• Students will deepen their understanding of international relations at the regional, national and local level of analysis.• Students will improve their analytical skills by examining current and past case studies determining which variables count most in political analysis.• Students will develop oral presentation skills including the rhetorical skills.
V. Instructional Methods and ActivitiesThe course will be lecture but mostly discussion oriented. It will focus on two main areas of study; international security and international political economy. Finally the course will pay special attention to particular global issues such as the Conflict and International L aw, Nuclear Proliferation, and Trade and Development.
Class meetings will be oriented around student presented material followed up by a lecture/discussion session. Students may also be expected to attend guest speaker conferences to supplement class work.
VI. Evaluation and Grading
Presentations (40%) During the course of the semester students will be responsible for a minimum of two 25-30min presentations.Papers (20%) Students are responsible for two 3-5 page papers during the semester.Mid-term exam (20%): In-class essay.Final exam (20%): Another in-class essay, based on material covered after the mid-term.
VII. AttendanceA passing grade requires completion of all course requirements. Class attendance is crucial and required. More than 3 absences will progressively lower final grades.
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