INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL THEORY

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

To gain advanced knowledge of debates concerning the ethical aspects of the global economic system, and to be able to situate real world controversies within those debates. 

​​

​

Knowledge and understanding

The main aim of this module is to provide students with an advanced knowledge of the crucial debates concerning the nature of ethical obligations between persons living in different political communities. The module addresses issues such as: the nature and extent of moral obligations towards the global poor; the moral and political consequences of global inequality; the idea of special obligations to compatriots; the idea of a just war. The module will present different theoretical positions and authors by drawing on current debates in the fields of international ethics and international political theory. Questions that arise in these debates include: does the idea of justice make sense in the global context? Does the global order violate the poor’s rights? Do we have special obligations toward fellow citizens? 

​

Applying knowledge and understanding

1) to achieve an advanced knowledge of the applied aspects connected to the moral evaluation of international organizations and global governance institutions;

2) to gain an advanced knowledge of the main approaches to international political theory and global political philosophy;

3) to develop the ability to analyse complex topics in political science and international relations broadly construed and to do so on the basis of directed and independent learning;

4) to enhance the technical, and qualitative research skills necessary to pursue research in political science and international relations by retrieving information from different sources;

5) to develop the ability to think critically and creatively and to argue coherently;

6) to enhance the ability to think independently, including problem-solving ability and the ability to discriminate and use judgement;

7) to further the ability to organise data, abstract meaning from information and share knowledge at an advanced level. 

​

Further expected learning outcomes:

Students will be taught and learn through self-guided learning, lectures, class discussion, and seminars. Students are taught through 2-hour lectures (each week), followed by 2-hour seminars (each week). Each lecture will introduce the students to the key theoretical approaches or data relevant to the theme of the lecture. The lectures will be tailored to accommodate the differential knowledge and disciplinary skills of different cohorts and to make sure that students approach subsequent seminars with an appropriate level of knowledge and understanding. The lectures will be followed by seminars during which students are required to examine and discuss the weekly material with their peers. During seminars students are also encouraged to explore the lecture content in greater detail and to identify areas in which they require particular guidance, for example on further reading. The seminars will enable students to develop their abilities to conduct research, to communicate, to present theoretical alternatives and data, and to develop their own argumentation skills. Class discussion encourages background reading, contributing to the students’ independent learning. It will further allow students the opportunity to exchange ideas, to explore issues and arguments that interest or concern them in greater depth, and to receive feedback from both the group and the lecturer on their own arguments and understanding.