PLSC 212 - Introduction to International Politics [GEKS]
An introduction to major theories and approaches in the study of international relations. The course considers the character of the international system, causes of conflict and war, foreign policy decision-making, determinants of economic development, and global environmental degradation. It also examines current issues such as terrorism, the protection of human rights, and globalization.
Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Fall, Winter, and Summer
Class-Level Restriction Undergraduate standing
Political Science 212 introduces students to the study of international relations (IR), one of the main fields of political science. This course emphasizes how political scientists acquire and share knowledge about the world. The course requires students to use the theoretical frameworks of the study of IR - realism, neo-realism, liberals, and feminism - to pose and address questions about contemporary issues and problems, including interstate disputes and wars, economic globalization, the increasing inequality among rich and poor nations, protection of human rights, threats to environmental quality and population growth. Through examination of research on such topics, students become familiar with the process of research and acquire the ability to critically evaluate the design of, and results from, research. The course also provides students with the opportunity to gather, examine and interpret data and to report the findings of their research, thus contributing to their understanding of how inquiry is conducted and knowledge is disseminated in political science. in sum, the course prepares students for citizenship in a global community by not only giving them basic factual knowledge of international relations and global processes, but also by providing them with the tools necessary to understand and explain international events and global patterns of change.
Notes -
Winter 2025 Course Sections
Fall 2024 Course Sections
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