ClassInfo

This course provides an introduction to the study of international relations. We will cover several approaches to and issues in the field, including the causes of war and peace, nuclear proliferation, trade, finance, globalization, international law, the environment, and terrorism. We will discuss several cases, such as the 2003 Iraq War and the 2008 financial crisis, throughout the semester. We will also discuss current events in international relations.

Course grades will be based on:

One ~1000 word paper analyzing an in-class exercise (10%)

Statecraft* quizzes and memos (10%)

One in-class mid-term examination (20%)

One ~1500 word policy paper based on critical analysis of course readings, lectures, and your own research (15%)

Final examination (35%)

Participation in Statecraft (10%)

*Statecraft is an online platform that implements a simulation of international politics. Statecraft memos should be at least 300 words and must be posted before each turn starts, beginning with Turn 1. These memos should detail challenges faced and strategies recommended for your country for each turn, and also should focus on your role within the simulation (e.g., the defense minister must include a defense budget for each turn). Each student must take both Statecraft quizzes and complete memos every other week, beginning with Week 1 or Week 2. In addition, students will be evaluated by both the T.A.'s and their peers regarding their participation in Statecraft. Students are responsible for turning memos in and taking quizzes on time. Statecraft will not accept late assignments, and you will lose credit for these assignments if they are submitted late.

The final examination will have an in-class component that will be administered on the last day of class and a take-home essay portion that will be distributed on following the final class session and due approximately five days later.