International relations

Classical Thinkers and Current Events

Module code: L2014N
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework

This module introduces you to classical political theorists from around the world. You will study Confucius, Hobbes, Kautilya, Vitoria, Ibn Khaldun, Marx and others. Through these authors, you explore a rich variety of international politics concepts. You will also explore how their work can be used to justify or criticise policies in international affairs. 

Topics covered include:

• terror and just war
• the rise of China
• Black Lives Matter
• Brexit
• humanitarian intervention
• the clash of civilizations.

Module learning outcomes

• Develop an overview of the theoretical foundations of the IR discipline
• Acquire an understanding of the intellectual problems associated with the analysis and interpretation of primary texts
• Engage with the problems of evaluating the contemporary relevance of historical texts
• Develop further the intellectual, practical and transferable skills encouraged by the mode of teaching