Theories of International Relations and International History - Detailseite

What is the relationship between theories of International Relations and International History? Are there any patterns that we can identify between competing paradigms for understanding international politics and contrasting interpretations of historical events in the international arena? In order to answer these questions, this inter-disciplinary seminar will offer students a critical introduction to the main theories of International Relations. The first part of the syllabus will concentrate on introductory and theoretical works while the second part of the course will focus on a selection of case studies which will illustrate the relationship between theoretical assumptions and the formulation of competing historical interpretations. Beyond the theoretical and methodological reflection, the seminar is also intended as a forum in which students are encouraged to discuss their own projects. Active participation and extensive reading is expected as well as a previous knowledge in Modern International History.