University of Florida

INR3630 – Theories of International Relations

Description:
This course introduces the principal theoretical approaches to the study of international relations (IR). These theories serve as lenses through which we interpret the complex and often chaotic world of international politics. They help us organize information in ways that enable coherent analysis and explanation. Depending on the theoretical lens we use, we may arrive at different interpretations of the same events. Each perspective presents a version of reality—not by inventing it, but by emphasizing different aspects and framing them in distinct ways.

While it is possible to read international politics without theory, doing so limits our understanding and can lead to contradictions or incoherence. In this course, we read theory not as an abstract exercise, but as a practical tool for making sense of international politics.

We will examine the claims and propositions each theory makes, the assumptions they rest on, their historical and intellectual contexts, and their intended audiences and purposes. We engage these theories through close readings of six books authored by major IR scholars. Theories included in this course have been deliberately selected based on their prominence and influence within the discipline.

Syllabus: Download here

INR2001 – Introduction to International Relations

Description:
The overall goal of this course is to help students make sense of the real world of international politics. The course examines both prominent global events and fundamental questions, such as:

  • Why do states go to war?
  • When and why do they cooperate?
  • What roles do international organizations and international law play?
  • Do states care about human rights?
  • How do they approach climate change?

By addressing these questions, students move beyond simply observing events and begin to develop theoretically informed explanations of international phenomena.

Since different theoretical traditions offer varying—and often competing—answers to these questions, the course introduces students to major concepts, theories, actors, and political issues in global politics. The course is divided into two parts:

  1. Theoretical Approaches: Realism, liberalism, constructivism, Marxism, postcolonialism, poststructuralism, and feminism.
  2. Contemporary Themes: International security, international law, migration and refugees, human rights, environmental politics, and more.

Students are expected to analyze these topics through the theoretical lenses introduced in the first part of the course.

Syllabus: Download here

Universitas Gadjah Mada

  • Diplomacy
  • Introduction to International Relations
  • International Security
  • Religion and Politics in South Asia
  • State Formation in South Asia
  • International Humanitarian Law
  • Peacebuilding
  • Theories of Foreign Policy