The course examines the evolution of the international system from 1500 to present, with particular emphasis on the last two centuries. In the broadest sense, the class focuses on two questions. Over the course of the semester, we will use this system-unit framework to explore the evolution of both the system and individual states. After a brief historical introduction and examination of systemic theories, we will assess the rise of the modern state. Next we will explore the evolution of warfare in the modern era.
War is both a cause and a consequence of the modern state.
Finally, we turn to the rise of the global capitalist system and the economic development of states within this system. Within this context, we explore the advantages and disadvantages of backwardness as states attempted to replicate the success of early industrializers. First, the course will introduce you to a wide range of general theories of international relations, which will help you understand the evolution of the international system. Second, the course seeks to demonstrate that viewing political development, the military revolution, and industrialization in isolation inhibits our understanding of each topic. Third, the course will expose students to a wide variety of problems confronting the international community, which are directly linked to the evolution of the international system.