Political Science 252 - Introductory International Relations

This class offers an introduction to the study of international relations. It addresses foundational puzzles in international relations, including: when are countries more likely to cooperate while facing global crises? When do crises ignite nationalism, thus pushing countries to compete for resources? When is global trade more likely to come to a halt, and why? How do major crises proliferate across issue areas, affecting cooperation on other areas such as climate change? What is the origin and the purpose of multilateral international organizations such as the World Health Organization? When do such organizations fail or succeed? Readings include both classic and cutting-edge research. The class will focus on cases, including cases on nuclear weapons, international trade, nationalism, and norms. It will include lectures, discussions, simulations, and written assignments. This class fulfills requirements 1 or 2 for the IR Five-College Certificate.

Limited to 26 students. Eight seats reserved for first year students. Spring semester. Associate Professor Mattiacci.

How to handle overenrollment: Students will be selected randomly, so each student has the same probability of being selected for the class, regardless of their major or year.

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