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Issues in International Relations (PO9C5)

Issues in International Relations

This module aims to familiarise you with theoretical approaches to key issues and practices in contemporary IR, and to evaluate those theoretical positions in the light of pressing issues in contemporary political life. The module animates IR theories via a thematic and issue based approach. Our aim is to critically evaluate the efficacy of different theories (e.g. Realism, Liberalism, Marxism) by exposing them to key issues and case studies. The objective of the module is to promote critical engagement with a wide range of theoretically-driven empirical literature in IR. We ask if theories are changing and/or need to be refined in the light of the changing nature of economic relations and security challenges. The focus is on developing theoretical purchase on the themes and issues we address, such as humanitarian intervention, international terrorism, environmental degradation and the changing nature of warfare. By the end of the module, you should have acquired a sound knowledge of the contribution of different theories of international relations to understanding key issues in IR.