PSCI 23908 - Pol. Theory in the International Arena

Course Credit: 1
POLITICAL THEORY IN THE INTERNATIONAL ARENA: Studying political theory in the international arena means investigating the ways in which the development of international politics may be explained, understood and judged. It approaches these topics through theoretical and philosophical texts (rather than empirical, quantitative, or historical material). We will read classical political philosophy texts that address questions of inter-community, city-state and nation-state relations, which form the basis for many contemporary debates in international relations. We will examine major theories of the international system – such as realism, liberalism and various critical theories – and link them up to their classical influences. We will examine several contemporary phenomena such as terrorism and human rights violations in light of the classical texts and major theories discussed. Contributions to theorizing international politics in the tradition of Western political theory will include examining the ideas of Thucydides, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Rousseau, Kant, and Marx. [HSS]