IR100
International Relations: Theories, Concepts and Debates
This information is for the 2023/24 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr Sinja Graf
Availability
This course is compulsory on the BSc in International Relations, BSc in International Relations and Chinese, BSc in International Relations and History and BSc in Politics and International Relations. This course is available on the BSc in Environment and Sustainable Development. This course is not available as an outside option. This course is available with permission to General Course students.
Students who have this course as a compulsory course are guaranteed a place.
Course content
This course offers an introduction to the study of International Relations (IR). It surveys mainstream and critical theories to the subject. The course also places these theories into conversation with each other to highlight key concepts and debates in the study of IR. We will begin by exploring the history of the modern inter-state system and the formation of IR as an academic discipline. We will proceed with studying major theories that analyse and/or criticize the modern international order before engaging several key topics from various perspectives. Overall, this course asks whether IR has developed based on particular (Anglo-American/European) experiences and viewpoints and whether it can and should become more global in its representation of diverse histories, concepts and theories.
Teaching
This course is delivered through a combination of classes and lectures totalling a minimum of 40 hours across Autumn Term and Winter Term.
Students on this course will have a reading week in Week 6, in line with departmental policy.
Formative coursework
Students are required to write two essays of 1,500 words.
Indicative reading
A full course description and guide to reading will be provided. Relevant course texts include:
- R Devetak, J George & S Percy (Eds) An Introduction to International Relations (Cambridge, 2017)
- J Baylis, S Smith & P Owens (Eds) The Globalization of World Politics (Oxford, 2016)
- Robbie Shilliam, Decolonizing Politics (Polity, 2021)
- R B Persaud & A Sajed (Eds) Race, Gender, and Culture in International Relations. Postcolonial Perspectives (Routledge, 2018).
Assessment
Take-home assessment (100%) in the ST.
Key facts
Department: International Relations
Total students 2022/23: 167
Average class size 2022/23: 15
Capped 2022/23: Yes (165)
Lecture capture used 2022/23: Yes (MT & LT)
Value: One Unit
Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Personal development skills
- Leadership
- Team working
- Problem solving
- Communication