This course seeks to evaluate such claims. In the domain of theory, we will consider conventional mainstream analyses, more skeptical mainstream accounts, and explicitly social constructivist perspectives. In considering the history of sovereignty, we will explore the rise of the state in Europe, with special attention to the transition from medieval to modern politics, and the spread of the state form of organization throughout the globe. In exploring contemporary issues, we will look at humanitarian intervention, territoriality, and the impact of international regulatory regimes. Grades will be based principally on a research paper on a topic of your choice.
Papers are due on the last day of classes.
There will be no exams. A Conventional Introduction Michael Walzer, Just and Unjust Wars , pp. Robert H. Jackson, Quasi-States , ch. The Social Construction of State Sovereignty Cynthia Weber, Simulating Sovereignty , ch. A Double Reading of the Anarchy Problematique.