Introductory description

Although a ‘common sense’ view of world politics is often presented as fact in non-academic contexts, there is little agreement about what International Relations is, and how we should think about the discipline. This module helps students critically examine conventional wisdom. The module emphasises that ‘the truth’ about International Relations is disputed and reflects on how we can use theory to study global politics.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

TBC

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Describe the key assumptions which distinguish contemporary theories of international relations from each other
• Analyze the purpose, coherence, and contradictions of contemporary theories of international relations and evaluate their contribution
• Deploy theories of international relations to study aspects of global politics

Indicative reading list

Term 1: https://rl.talis.com/3/warwick/lists/B826003B-6698-FCC0-34C9-587429382E23.html
Term 2: https://rl.talis.com/3/warwick/lists/06B1D7CB-9708-74A9-C840-0F491E30783A.html

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

TBC

Transferable skills

The module provides students with opportunities to acquire or develop the following key skills:

• Communication skills
• Lateral thinking skills
• Skills in the distillation and application of complex information and ideas
• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Independent research skills
• Problem solving
• Time management
• Information Technology
• Skills in academic practice
• Awareness of, and sensitivity to, diversity
• Decision making
• Educational self-awareness skills