International Relations
International Relations literally “interaction between countries” is the study of international politics. The outcome of that political process influences our lives on a daily basis. Starting with the water that you use to make your morning coffee to the gasoline you use to drive your car, many things are related to international relations. This course intends to shed some light on the processes underlying international politics. At the end of the course students should have some basic understanding of important concepts in the field, theories used top explain international relations, and important topics dealt with by international politics.
Click here for the course syllabus Books The following books are required for the course:
The following book is required for students taking the honors section of the class: The required books will be available at the UMass Lowell Bookstore. You can also try some of the following on-line outlets:
Simulation Students in this class will be assigned a country in the world that they are most likely not familiar with. They will have to research this country and become familiar with its domestic and international political, economic, and cultural standing. During the semester they will have to write five one to two page memos (papers) pretending to be working as a member of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of their country and advising the Minister of Foreign Affairs which policy to follow on a given topic in international relations. On regular occasions during class time (as indicated in the syllabus) students will have to represent their country in the General Assembly of the United Nations or another International Governmental Arena and argue within that body on behalf of their country. Several links have been provided below to assist you in your research to be a representative for your assigned country. On the “General Resources for Students” page you will find many more links that might be helpful in your research. Research Links for the Simulation: Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Country Reports Country Studies (Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress) Library of Congress Portals to the World Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) Country Reports |
