International relations

What is War

Module code: L2072A
Level 6
30 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework, Essay

How does war shape our society and how specific social and political orders affect what is war?

On this module, you’ll gain an advanced understanding of war as a social phenomenon. We will scrutinise what war is and how, if at all, it is different from other forms of violence. Then, we’ll explore the connections between war and the fields of law, gender, technology, culture and media. You will then use this knowledge to investigate specific case studies to gain in-depth insight into the multifaceted nature of war. The module also focuses on the development of transferrable skills, from research and analysis to presentation, which will help you think, talk and write in an informed and critical manner.

Module learning outcomes

• Develop a systematic and critical understanding of war, including its place in history and its role in human affairs.
• Develop a detailed conceptual understanding of the different approaches to the history and theory of war and the thinkers who have promoted these perspectives.
• Effectively synthesise and communicate the empirical and theoretical uncertainties, ambiguities and limits of the different approaches to the history and theory of war.