INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Political Science 2100 Course Syllabus

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1 POLS Second Summer Session 2014 INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Political Science 2100 Course Syllabus Summer Term Second Session 2014 Section 001 Orson Spencer Hall (OSH) 130 day & day, 6:00-8:45 pm If one asks whether we can now have peace where in the past there has been war, the answers are almost always pessimistic. Perhaps this is the wrong question. And indeed, the answers will be somewhat less discouraging if instead the following questions are put: Are there ways of decreasing the incidence of war, of increasing the chances of peace? Can we have peace more often in the future than in the past? Instructor Information [Kenneth N. Waltz, from Man, the State and War, 1954] R. Mark Bean, MA Associate Dean for International (retired), U of U Undergraduate Studies Colonel, USAF (retired) PhD Candidate, Political Science Department, University of Utah Office: OSH 252 (Political Science Office) (primary means of contact): mark.bean@utah.edu Ph: (801) Office Hours (OSH 252): day & day 5-6 pm Course Description Introduces students to the analysis of international relations. Topics include the determinants of state power and the conditions that foster conflict and cooperation in international politics. Designed for students with no previous background in the study of international relations. Course Rationale What makes international politics different than domestic politics? Why does international politics seem prone to producing war and conflict? Has the character of international politics changed over the course of history, or has it remained constant even as humankind has advanced technologically and organizationally in other areas? What does globalization, mean for nation-states and international politics? These questions and others related to international politics have puzzled humankind for centuries. In the modern world, phenomena such as the shrinkage of global space, the increase of economic and other forms of interdependence among nations and societies, and the advent of increasingly destructive weapons and means to deliver them over long distances have, if anything increased the salience of these questions. At no time in history have events in distant places had more impact on national and local affairs, making us all, at least to some degree, citizens of the world. Thus, an understanding of international relations or international politics has not only become essential to anyone desiring to fully understand the world in which we live and

2 the forces which shape our lives, but also a necessity for those who seek to function effectively in many fields of human endeavor, both private and public. Course Goals and Objectives Goals Raise student awareness and understanding of international politics and its conduct both historically and in the contemporary world. Increase student understanding of similarities and differences between international and domestic politics and of the connections between the two. Raise student awareness of the implications of international politics for individual lives in this country and throughout the world. Specific Learning Objectives By the end of this course, students will be able to: Compare and contrast the major theories of and approaches to international relations, including their key assumptions, strengths, and weaknesses. Analyze important historical events and periods in terms of international relations theories. Identify and describe the role of the major actors (e.g., nation-states and international organizations) in international politics. Evaluate the role of power and self-interest in determining the shape of international politics. Evaluate the role of ideas and values in determining the shape of international politics. Analyze why international actors might choose cooperation over conflict in international politics. Formulate and express, both orally and in written form, arguments concerning international relations theories as to which best explain both historical and contemporary international politics. Analyze important contemporary issues and problems in international relations in terms of international relations theory and understand theoretical basis of opposing arguments Format and Procedures The class meetings for this course will primarily follow a lecture-discussion format. I will introduce the main concepts through short lectures, after which we will typically discuss key points, examples, and ideas in open discussion. For this method to work properly, it is essential that students prepare for class by doing assigned readings and thinking in advance about key concepts to be covered. For students to get the most out of this course it is also important for them to actively participate in class discussions. Although not formally graded, effective class participation may result in extra credit points (see grading procedures below). Canvas course management software will be used during this course. Important information such as the syllabus, reserve readings, course schedule, messages and reminders from the instructor will disseminated via Canvas. Assumptions There are no prerequisites for this course. I assume, however, that students have an active interest in international politics and will keep abreast of important contemporary developments and current international events through newspaper and periodical sources such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Financial 2

3 Times, and The Economist. I may also periodically post newspaper and magazine articles of particular relevance and interest to the course in Canvas. I believe that critical thinking and ability to express the results clearly and cogently, both orally and in written work, are important aspects of learning. Thus, critical thinking and oral and written expression will be emphasized throughout the course, both in class discussions and in the paper assignments outlined below. Course Requirements 1. Class attendance and participation policy: Since as noted above, class discussion will be an important part of the course, class attendance is mandatory. 2. Course readings: a. Required Text: Students should purchase the following texts, from which the majority of reading assignments are taken: Karen A. Mingst and Ivan M. Arreguin-Toft. Essentials of International Relations, 6 th edition. New York: Norton, The required text is available in the Campus Book Store. If you elect to purchase from alternative sellers, you are responsible for obtaining the correct editions. If available, one copy of the required text will be placed in the Marriott Library Course Reserves Section (2 hour reserve). b. Other Required Readings: As indicated in the Course Schedule section below, I have assigned several additional required readings outside the required textbook listed above. These readings can be accessed online through Canvas. The material from these readings will be included in quizzes and examinations, as noted in the assignments section below. c. Recommended Readings: From time-to-time, I may place additional recommended readings in Canvas. Typically, these will be newspaper or magazine articles that highlight important course concepts in the context of current events. Material from these readings will not be tested unless covered during class lectures and/or discussions. These readings will enhance students overall understanding of material covered during the course. 3. Course Assignments a. Quizzes: A quiz will be given during each class session (other than the first class session and the mid-term exam session). Quizzes will primarily encompass required readings, but may occasionally include material from previous class lectures and discussion. The purpose of the quizzes is to encourage students to complete required readings prior to class and to prepare students for the types of questions and knowledge expectations for the mid-term and final exams. To get credit for the quiz, the student must be present in class on the day the quiz is given. Quizzes for extra credit points may also be given at my discretion. These may cover subjects such as current events or international maps. The timing and specific subject matter for extra 3

4 credit quizzes will be announced in advance. To get credit for these quizzes, the student must be present at the class in which they are given. b. Exams: Two exams will be given, a mid-term and final. Midterm exam: Multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer questions. Final exam: Multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, short answer and essay questions. The examinations will cover material from required readings, lectures, and class discussions. Some material contained in readings may not be covered in class, and some material introduced in class may not be covered in the readings. Readings and class attendance are important to doing well on the examinations. c. Thought Paper: Students will complete one 3-5 page thought paper during the course. An assignment sheet with topic(s) and other guidance for each thought paper will be provided well in advance of the paper due date. Students are expected to integrate the concepts and ideas covered in the readings and in class in writing each thought paper. Research outside the course assigned readings is not required; however, students are expected to support ideas and concepts discussed with citations from the readings, documented in MLA (7 th edition) format ( provides an excellent guide to using MLA documentation). If desired, students may use sources outside the assigned readings. The goal of the thought papers is to encourage students to engage in critical thinking about the various points of view on international relations that they will be encounter during the course. Papers may require students to make an argument for or against a particular viewpoint, which must be supported with reference to the readings and/or in class discussion. Students should keep in mind that an effective argument addresses not only the supported viewpoint, but also explains why alternative viewpoints are not as effective. The thought paper is due on day, July 29 (also annotated in Course Schedule below): The thought paper is worth 50 points. Papers must be typed, double-spaced with 12 pt font and 1-inch margins. A physical copy of each paper must be turned in by the end of class on the due date of the paper ( ed papers will not be accepted except in cases of exceptional circumstances cleared in advance with the instructor). One-fifth of the grade for each paper (10 points) will be based on paper organization, grammar, and composition, and the use and documentation of source material; four-fifths (40 points) will be based on content. Late papers will be penalized at the rate of 4 percent (2 points out of 50) per day. 4

5 Grading Procedures: 1. Students will be graded on a scale of points as follows: Assignment Points % of Total Grade 9 Quizzes (1 st quiz 10 points, remainder 5 points each) Mid-Term Exam Final Exam Thought Paper Totals Class participation: As noted in the Format and Procedures section above, class participation is an important element in maximizing the value of the course to students. As such, at my discretion, I will add up to 10 points of extra credit to a student s total score for exceptional class preparation and participation. Participation points will not necessarily be based on the quantity of class participation, but rather on quality, based on sustaining interest throughout the course, thoughtfulness of comments, and understanding of course assignments. To effectively participate, students must obviously regularly attend class; attendance will therefore be a factor in determining whether extra credit points are awarded. In general, letter grades will be assigned as follows: A % B % C % D % E Below 60% ( + or - ranges will be determined by the instructor). Academic Integrity and Plagiarism Academic misconduct will not be tolerated in this course. Any work submitted by a student in for academic credit must be the student's own work. Students will strictly abide by the University of Utah standards of academic conduct as outlined in the Student Code (University Regulations, Chap. X, Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities). Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, cheating, misrepresenting one's work, inappropriately collaborating, plagiarism, and fabrication or falsification of information. It also includes facilitating academic misconduct by intentionally helping or attempting to help another to commit an act of academic misconduct. The minimum penalty to be imposed for academic misconduct will be a failing grade for the course. Other penalties (probation, suspension, or dismissal) may also be imposed in accordance with procedures outlined in the Student Code. You are encouraged to study together and to discuss information and concepts covered in reading assignments and in class with other students. You can give "consulting" help to or receive "consulting" help from such students. However, this permissible cooperation should never involve one student having possession of a copy of all or part of work done by someone else, in the form of an , an attachment file, a diskette, or a hard copy. 5

6 During examinations, you must do your own work. Talking or discussion is not permitted, nor may you compare papers, copy from others, or collaborate in any way. Any such collaborative behavior, either with others inside the classroom or anyone outside the classroom, during examinations will result in failure of the exam and failure of the course as noted above. Accommodations for students with disabilities The University of Utah seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services and activities for people with disabilities. If you will need accommodations in the class, reasonable prior notice needs to be given to the Center for Disability Services (CDS), 162 Olpin Union Building, (V/TDD). CDS will work with you and the instructor to make arrangements for accommodations. All information in this course can be made available in alternative format with prior notification to the Center for Disability Services. Course Schedule Wk Date Major Topics 2 1 Jun 19 Jun 24 Course Overview Approaches to the Study of IR IR Theory Levels of Analysis Contending Perspectives Theoretical Perspectives: Realism & Liberalism Anarchy & the security dilemma Power/balance of power Cooperation, institutions, and progress Assignments Text=Mingst & Arreguin-Toft, Essentials of International Relations, 6 th Ed. Text: Ch 1 & Ch 3 Snyder, One World, Rival Theories (Canvas) Quiz #1 Text: Ch 2, pp Mearsheimer, Anarchy and the Struggle for Power Fukuyama Liberty Marches On Jun 26 Jul 1 Theoretical Perspectives: Constructivism & Alternative Approaches International society Materialism and idealism Structure and Actors: The System Concept of system Polarity Material vs. social systems Quiz #2 Text: Chap 2, pp Wendt, Anarchy is What States Make of It Kennan, The Sources of Soviet Conduct Quiz #3 Text : Ch 2, pp ; Ch 4 Ikenberry, et al, Unipolarity, State Behavior, and Systemic Consequences 3 Jul 3 Structure and Actors: The State State vs. nation Two-level games Foreign-policy decision making Challenges to the state Structure and Actors: The Individual Foreign policy elites Mass public and public opinion Perception and misperception Quiz #4 Text: Ch 5 & Ch 6 Hall, We Will Not Swallow This Bitter Fruit: Theorizing a Diplomacy of Anger 6

7 Jul 8 Jul 10 July 15 Jul 17 Mar 6 Jul 22 Jul 24 Jul 29 Jul 31 War and Strife I Terrorism War and Strife II Causes of war Types of war Just War Collective security International Organizations, Law, and Norms Intergovernmental organizations Non-governmental organizations International law, rules, and norms International Political Economy Nature of the international economy Trade and development Globalization and regionalism Human Rights Foundation of human rights States and International responsibility for human rights Transnational and Issues Environment and Climate Change Terrorism and Crime Supranational Issues and the Future of IR Clash of civilizations Rise and decline of major powers Management of the international system Course Summary and Review Mid-term exam Text: Ch 8, pp Quiz #5 Text: Ch.8, pp ; pp Clausewitz, War as an Instrument of Policy Waltz, Why Iran Should Get the Bomb Quiz #6 Text: Ch 7, Mearsheimer, The False Promise of International Institutions Keck & Sikkink, Transnational Advocacy Networks in International Politics Quiz #7 Text: Ch 9 Gilpin, International Political Economy Gartzke, Capitalist Peace or Democratic Peace? Quiz #8 Text: Ch 10, Ch 11 Ostrom, Institutions and the Environment Ridley, The Scarcity Fallacy Holiday No class Thought Paper Due Quiz #9 Huntington, The Clash of Civilizations Friedberg, The Future of U.S.-China Relations: Is Conflict Inevitable? Betts, Conflict or Cooperation? Three Visions Revisited Final Exam 7