The majority of the teaching takes place in the Michaelmas and Lent terms. The course examines the transformation of classical studies of international relations, in both their ethical and analytic dimensions, and looks at modern problems of methodology and focus. It considers problems of epistemology, methodology and ontological concerns from an interdisciplinary perspective. There is a focus on the debates over the nature, assumptions and implications of idealism, realism, pluralism, structuralism and the associated inter-paradigm debate. Positivism, including its behavioural variant, is discussed in the context of the post-positivist critique provided by critical theory, feminist theory, postmodern perspectives and constructivism.
Central theme is the relationship between national independence and collective diplomacy.
Explores the problems of ethnic identity and nationalist movements in the modern world and the relationship between nations and states and between both and the contemporary international system. Soviet foreign policy goals, decision-making processes and perceptions compared to the goals, processes and perceptions of the successor states. You may take other relevant courses with the approval of your supervisor.