Foundations of International Relations (pathway elective) (005RE)
15 credits, Level 4
Autumn teaching
On this module, you’ll explore key theories and concepts to understand International Relations (IR). You’ll consider how IR has become a distinct scholarly discipline. You’ll also ask who and what are served by the different lenses scholars use to analyse IR.
You’ll explore questions such as:
- what role have colonialism and race played in shaping the modern international order and world politics?
- how are global patterns of inequality and violence linked to the dynamics of global capitalism?
- why did the first departments of IR avoid these questions and focus instead on relations between states?
- what is the significance of international institutions like the UN?
- to what extent do they help make the world more peaceful and cooperative?
- how do identities and the relations between self and other affect IR?
- how do gender relations influence this?
- how and why do all these theories matter in the ‘real world’?
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.
We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
Courses
This module is offered on the following courses: