Proseminar in IR

Catalog description

This course provides students with a critical assessment of the major theories and concepts which define international relations as a field of study. It has two goals. The first is an in-depth analysis of explanatory theories such as realism, idealism, structuralism, neo-liberalism, interdependence, functionalism and of core concepts such as sovereignty, national interest, collective security, and balance of power. The second goal is an examination of the historical evolution of international systems, with focus on the modern state system and the Cold War period. Special attention is given to the processes and institutions (e.g. international law, United Nations, NGOs, international civil society) that contribute to conflict resolution and international cooperation. The objective of this course is to provide the foundations (conceptual, historical, theoretical) that graduate students in International Relations need as a preparation for the curriculum's more specialized and advanced courses. Pre-requisites : PSCI 502