Why do countries go to war, and when do they choose peace and cooperation? Are states single, unitary actors, or do domestic politics and individual leaders shape their decisions? Do small countries view the world differently than great powers? Why do governments impose tariffs and border controls—do they protect national interests or hinder global cooperation? Do norms, morality, and international law really matter in world politics? These are some of the most fundamental and pressing questions in international relations. Especially in an era of rapid globalization, where a small political event in one region can quickly ripple across continents, understanding how countries interact is more important than ever. Wars, trade disputes, climate agreements, and great power competitions do not just affect politicians and leaders, but they also influence security, economies, and the daily lives of people across the world in ways we often take for granted.
This course serves as an introduction to the study of international relations. The primary goal is to provide the theoretical foundations necessary for analyzing and understanding major international issues such as war and peace, diplomacy, and economic globalization. By the end of the course, students will be prepared for more advanced topics in international relations and also equipped as informed and involved global citizens.