In this course we will study some of the major theories developed to explain the way nations relate to each other. Why do some cooperate and others fight? Why do all cooperate at some times and fight at others? We will look at some very different concepts to see how each can give us some insight into the complexity of world events. We will study traditional state-centered explanations, but also newer ideas about transnational relations that attempt to better account for changing international reality.

Each student will write a 10-page paper using the concepts studied during the semester to analyze a particular international situation. This paper will be done in stages, with plenty of opportunity for revision. There will be three exams (one is dropped) plus the final.