This course focuses on developing a more theory-informed understanding of current issues in international relations through a survey of major theories and approaches in international relations, such as realism and neo-realism, classical liberalism, liberalism, the English School, constructivism, critical theory, Marxism and neo-Marxist, poststructuralism, postcolonialism, feminism, relationalism and posthumanism. The strengths, weaknesses, and contemporary relevance of these theories as well as major theoretical debates will be examined to help students deepen their understanding of relevant concepts and their connections with the practices and challenges of world politics. Students are required to participate in the class discussion and write a research essay to present their own critical analysis of a chosen topic.

CILO-1: Identify the connections between contemporary world issues and the relevant theoretical traditions in international and public affairs. CILO-2: Discuss the main focus, key assumptions, key concepts, main strengths and weaknesses of the main theories of international relations covered in the course. CILO-3: Apply relevant theories and perspectives to analyze and explain the nature and major issues and phenomena (events, structures, and processes) of international relations both in oral and written forms. CILO-4: Evaluate key points of the ontological, epistemological, methodological and ethical/political dimensions of IR theories, their production and application in theory and practice.