The module demonstrates to students the importance and necessity of theory when trying to understand and explain the international environment. It examines the historical development of theory since the inception of the discipline in 1919 with a particular focus on contemporary debates. The module is designed to enable students to apply IR theory and to ensure they have a clear understanding of the purpose of theory and the insights it contributes when analysing a complex world. The topics covered are Liberalism; Realism; Marxism; The English School; Normative Theory and Constructivism;

The participation grade encourages engaged and consistent learning. This builds up subject-knowledge as well as enhancing communication and analysis skills. You are expected to post a 500-word answer to the week’s set question. The participation grade is worked out on the number of these you do each week and how well you engage with the posts of others. The word-length for this assessment therefore depends on how much you engage. Three posts are required for a pass. Full marks can be achieved from a good 500 word post each week in addition to regular informed engagement with the posts of others. [Learning Outcomes 1 and 3]

The Critical Review will require you to focus precisely and concisely on an academic journal article, evaluate and analyse it and communicate your conclusions in a well-structured and appropriately referenced 1500-word assignment. [Learning Outcomes 1-3]

The essay (3500 words) will require you to show your overall knowledge and understanding of the theories covered in the module and your ability to apply that knowledge to real world concerns. [Learning Outcomes 1-4]

The main focus will be on self-instruction, within a tightly structured framework and relying largely (but not exclusively) on materials supplied. Week by week you will work through self-instructional course material, (delivered on Blackboard) which provides the framework and focus for reading key texts and papers and undertaking specific set tasks. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis, but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in your learning group and your tutor via a discussion board.

1.Understand and critically engage with the key literature that defines the contemporary study of International Relations (IR).

Enquiry; Knowledge & Understanding; Learning

2. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the controversies and debates that are shaping the current development of the discipline of IR.

Knowledge & Understanding; Learning; Application, Reflection

3. Critique complex theoretical approaches to IR.

Analysis; Reflection

4. Research and locate contemporary theoretical concerns against
changing world events.

Application, Enquiry, Learning

Students will need a computer and regular internet in order to access Blackboard, the electronic reading list and the e-resources of the University Library.

Tim Dunne, Milja Kurki & Steve Smith, (2020) International Relations Theories: Discipline and Diversity, Oxford University Press

P. Viotti & M. Kauppi (2019) International Relations Theory, Pearson

Robert Jackson, Georg Sorenson, and Jorgen Moller, (2018), Introduction to International Relations: Theories and Approaches, seventh edition, Oxford University Press

E. H. Carr (2001), The Twenty Years Crisis (Palgrave Macmillian)

Hans J Morgenthau (1985) sixth edition, Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace (McGraw-Hill)

Kenneth Walz, (2010) A Theory of International Politics (Waveland Press)