Political Science 418 - Nature in International Relations

This course examines the role of nature in international relations, exploring how natural resources have influenced cooperation and conflict between states. The first part of the course focuses on resource competition and collaboration during peacetime. In contrast, the second part addresses how environmental disputes can escalate into war, including the use of scorched-earth tactics. Students will engage in original research and team projects, with lectures and discussions throughout. As a culminating activity, students will be asked to do original research projects and also work in teams. This class will include lectures and discussion.  Open to majors and non-majors, this course fulfills requirements 2 and 4 of the Five College International Relations Certificate.

Requisite: Required prior coursework, one course in Political Science.  Fall semester. Associate Professor Mattiacci.

How to handle overenrollment: null

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Emphasis on written work, readings, independent research, oral presentations, group work.