Università Roma Tre

This course consists of in-depth study of fundamental dynamics in international politics. It is in three parts. Its first part engages the students in a discussion of the main theories of international relations: realism, institutionalism, liberalism, constructivism, English school and Copenhagen school, critical theory, feminism, post-structuralism and post-colonialism. The second part moves from theory to practice by employing key concepts which are important when analyzing international politics, including cooperation, conflict, dialogue, and narratives. It also inquires into the gap between theory, practice, and the games played by real actors in international politics. The third part explores key topics in international politics, including new dynamics in the international system, questions of war and peace, new security challenges, as well as ethical issues. Students are directly engaged in all three parts through presentations, participations in debates, as well as a field trip. Students will learn how to criticize existing research paradigms and how political science concepts evolve in a changing international context.

This course is taught in English.

Required textbooks:
• Textbook 1: Dunne, Tim, Milya Kurki, and Steve Smith (eds), International Relations Theories. Discipline and Diversity. Oxford: Oxford University Press (2nd edition, 2009)
• Textbook 2: Carlsnaes, Walter, Risse, Thomas, and Simmons, Beth, eds. Sage Handbook of International Relations (2002)