Module:  INT4001-20 Issues in World Politics

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Rupert Alcock

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.alcock@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces some of the major international issues facing the contemporary world. It explores several ongoing and dynamic global problems, whether economic, social, cultural, political or ethical. Engagement with each issue is shaped by analysis of relevant scholarly debates from traditional and non-traditional international relations perspectives. From realism to post-colonialism, the module strengthens students’ understandings of core concepts in world politics, while equipping them with the skills to use and apply these to explain and explore solutions to contemporary real-life concerns.

The module is designed to explore several ongoing global problems, giving students an opportunity to:

1. Apply their knowledge of politics and international relations theory to gain a better understanding of real-world issues;

2. Examine the strengths and limitations of political and international relations theory when explaining and understanding global problems;

3. Use their knowledge to contribute to the design of a policy plan, where students identify a problem, evaluate alternative approaches to addressing it and develop their own preferred solutions.

2.Outline syllabus:

The module begins by introducing core traditional and non-traditional approaches to the study of world politics, such as the international relations canon; critical theory; feminism and gender-based approaches; postcolonial and anti-colonial approaches.

It then explores a series of contemporary issues in world politics from different theoretical and conceptual perspectives. An indicative selection of issues includes the following:

• Colonialism and power

• Poverty and inequality

• Peace and conflict

• The nature of violence

• Climate and environment

• Migration and nationalism

3.Teaching and learning activities:

This module is taught through a combination of mini-lectures, workshops, seminars and small-group discussions.

In addition, we seek opportunities for field trips and research visits.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description:  Vlog (equiv. 10-12 minutes)

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description:  Policy proposal (equiv. 2500 words) 

• % Weighting: 60%