Introduction to International Politics: Professor Melissa Labonte
PORU 2501- Introduction to International Politics
Professor Melissa Labonte
Fordham University, Fall 2008
Purpose and Scope
Which powers "matter" in the contemporary international political system and how do we "know" that they matter? Should states cooperate with each other over matters involving their vital national and security interests or can state goals only be achieved via competition? Are democracies really more peaceful than non-democracies? If so, why? Will the world's poorest nations benefit by embracing "globalization" and the tenets of international trade? Should nuclear states, especially the U.S., allow Iran and North Korea to continue to pursue their nuclear ambitions? How should the international community of states address global challenges, like HIV/AIDS, SARS and the avian flu, environmental degradation, international narcotrafficking, people smuggling, and international terrorism? What are the greatest future threats to the international community of states?
Designed to assist the beginning student in developing a coherent framework for international political analysis, this course introduces students to the main theoretic approaches and debates in the sub-field. It will also stress the importance of developing strong critical thinking and writing skills. Particular emphasis is given to the nature of the contemporary international political system and the implications of this system for a world of increasing complexity, interdependence, and rapid change. The goals pursued and the methods used by nation-states and other actors in international relations are also examined, as are key issue areas that create discord or facilitate harmony for world order. The course utilizes key writings drawn from the canon of international relations scholarship, as well as critical analyses of a variety of contemporary issues, case studies on select topics in international politics, documentary film, and in-class simulations.
Foreign Affairs Academic Update
This monthly e-newsletter keeps you informed about events and new publications and includes special features for educators including sample syllabi from your colleagues.
CFR: For Educators
The Council on Foreign Relations's Academic Outreach Initiative is designed to connect educators and students at the college and graduate level with the CFR's research and nonpartisan analysis. Go to www.cfr.org/educators to learn more about the CFR's:
Sign-up for free weekly updates from ForeignAffairs.com.