Power, Sovereignty, and IR

Introduction

This first unit is - by some distance - the most complex, time-intensive, and important of the entire course. The first unit provides the theoretical framework upon which the rest of the course is built.

As with all the units, there is a combination of theory and case examples provided to fully illuminate the key concepts. While the provided case examples are instructive in understanding the content, you should not feel confined to these cases when presenting your HL Extension or writing your Papers.

While Unit 1 is fun and interesting - it is also difficult. You are learning a new language, and the learning curve is steep. Use the attached revision resources to help review key terminology and theories.

The Tragedy of the Commons

Hard Power vs. Soft Power

The Rise of Right Wing Populism

Russian Annexation of Crimea

Covid-19

Revision Materials

P,S,IR Content.pdf

Prescribed Content

At left is the prescribed content for this first unit.

Please note that the third column shows suggestions and ideas rather than hard and fast rules. The instructor (me) is given license to determine which key theories are necessary. Often my choices will align with these suggestions, but not as a rule.

Each cast example will touch upon one or more of the key content areas, these are listed on the 'case' pages.