International Politics

These are interesting times for international politics. The rise of religious fundamentalism, terrorism, regional ethnic conflicts, environmental degradation and bio-security concerns, oil and other resource conflicts, poverty and deprivation, globalisation and financial crises, the changing dynamics of international power relations, the future of democracy and the capacity of the international system (and international law) to address these problems: these are all enormous challenges for analysts, governments and other decision-makers.

This innovative programme offers a study of the perspectives and concerns of non-core states - developing countries countries in transition or conflict and poor states marginalised in the global system. How do these states manage political relations in the international system? What impact do international regimes and international law have upon international politics? To what extent can the non-core states influence the global order? Can we identify changes to the global order and new emerging powers for the 21st century.

This programme develops critical perspectives on contemporary theory and practice in international politics, and enables students to understand and evaluate contemporary issues. It also develops key analytical skills associated with thinking, speaking and writing clearly and critically about contemporary international issues, and provides a firm foundation for doctoral study.

The programme is likely to appeal to those who have a broad interest in international affairs, including those whose future employment is likely to involve the public, private and/or non-governmental sphere in an international context.

Content

• Theory and Issues in International Politics
• Research Issues and Methods
• States, Nations and Conflict in the International System
• Foundations for Postgraduate Study
• Dissertation

One or two options from:

• Post Colonialism and the Coming Community
• Public International Law
• International Human Rights Law
• Regulatory Institutions of the World Economy
• Globalisation and Development
• Britain in the International System
• Crime, Terrorism and the State