Whenever we make a statement about international affairs and world politics, we rely on often implicit theoretical assumptions about power, interests, identities, norms, and how they relate to the behaviour of international actors. Whether we like it or not, we are ‘doomed’ to rely on theories. Since we all use theoretical assumptions, we need to make them explicit - we need to justify and defend them. In this module you will engage key theories, concepts and debates in the discipline of international relations in order to develop an adanced understanding of key theoretical approaches, including liberalism, realism, international society approaches, Marxism, critical theory, poststructuralism, postcolonialism and feminism. You will be asked to think critically about the strengths and limmitations of each theory, as well as the similarities and differences between them.You will learn to see theories as valuable tool for understanding, comparing, and evaluating different persectives on international issues.
Lecture 16, Seminar 16
The module is compulsory for the following courses
MA International Relations
MA International Relations and International Law.
The module is optional for the following courses
MA International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
MA Security and Terrorism
MA Peace and Conflict Studies
Also available as an elective module.
Extended Writing. Assessment Details: Short Essay 1500 words worth 30%.
Extended Writing. Assessment Details: Essay 3,000 words worth 70%.
Reassessment Method: Like for like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
Identify and interpret key theories and concepts of international relations, including significant traditions and debates
Critically engage with theories and concepts of international relations.
Undertake compelling analysis of complex historical events and contexts through the application of relevant theories and concepts of international relations
Analyse contemporary international politics and possible future trajectories through the application of relevant theories and concepts of international relations
Demonstrate an advanced understanding of how the responses of researchers and policy makers to events is shaped by theories and concepts of international relation.
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