This module traces the development of the society of states from its origins in European history through to the present. The module looks at how states became the dominant form of political organization in Europe, and how a society of states based on rules, norms and law evolved and analyses the way in which order has been maintained. It examines how the European experience has become global through imperialism and war, and considers the impact of diplomacy, nationalism, changing technologies, diversity and the growth of international organisations on the society of states. It analyses the importance of power in the international society and the impact of shifting balances of power. It concludes by considering contemporary power shifts and the potential significance for the contemporary international society.

One 10 minute presentation delivered to the seminar group demonstrating an analysis of a chosen topic relevant to international society. Weighted at 30%. Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding, Learning, Analysis, Application, Communication.

One 2500 word essay weighted at 70% A critical response to one of a number of option essay questions that require critical consideration, research, planning, drafting, referencing and argument. Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding, Learning, Analysis, Application, Communication.

Key Information Set Data:
100% Coursework

The module incorporates three inter-dependent learning strategies. The lecture programme introduces themes, developments, events and relationships in the international society. The seminars provide for follow up discussion and clarification of the week’s topic. Independent learning will be focused on directed reading, provided in a course pack on Keylinks, and note-taking in preparation for lectures, an assessed presentation during the term and a final essay.

1. DEMONSTRATE A CLEAR AND CRITICAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE CONCEPT OF INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY.

Knowledge & Understanding

2. DEMONSTRATE DETAILED HISTORICAL KNOWLEDGE OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FROM WESTPHALIA TO THE PRESENT.

Knowledge & Understanding
Learning

3. DEMONSTRATE AN ABILITY TO ANALYSE BOTH CONTINUITY AND CHANGE WITHIN INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY.

Analysis

4. PROVIDE WELL-RESEARCHED AND DEVELOPED PIECES OF WORK IN AN APPROPRIATE ACADEMIC STYLE.

Application
Communication

Library, where you will find relevant books, journals, newspapers and periodicals.
Internet, where you will find relevant Web sites.
Teaching space with digital projection.
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Adam Watson, 2009. The Evolution of International Society, London: Routledge.

Hedley Bull and Adam Watson, 2017. The Expansion of International Society, 2nd edition Oxford: Clarendon

Tim Dunn and Chris Reus-Smit, 2017. The Globalization of International Society ¿ Oxford University Press.

Andrew Hurrell, 2007. On Global Order: Power, Values and the Constitution of International Society, Oxford University Press