Introduction to International Relations from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand what we mean by the subject of international relations
Understand why international relations is about global organization of political authority
Learn the history of the international relations discipline
Understand the great debates of international relations
Learn about the key books, magazines and websites on international relations
Understand what theory is about
Recognise the differences between explanatory, predictive and normative theories
Understand 3 levels of analysis
Learn the key tenets of classical liberalism and neo-liberalism
Learn the key tenets of classical realism and neo-realism
Learn the key tenets of social constructivism and feminism
Understand how the system of modern statehood has evolved
Learn about international relations in medieval europe

Recognise the importance of the the peace of augsburg and treaty of westphalia for modern statehood
Understand how international relations look differently from the chinese perspective
Learn about war and the causes of war
Learn about different theoretical ideas for international peace
Understand the role of league of nations and united nations in international peace
Understand the role of european integration in international peace
Learn about the international political economy and bretton woods institutions
Understand the differences between liberalism, realism and marxism in int. political economy
Learn about competing theoretical perspectives on globalisation
Learn about the impact of covid-19 on nationalism and globalisation
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Understand what we mean by the subject of international relations
Understand why international relations is about global organization of political authority
Learn the history of the international relations discipline
Understand the great debates of international relations
Learn about the key books, magazines and websites on international relations
Understand what theory is about
Recognise the differences between explanatory, predictive and normative theories
Understand 3 levels of analysis
Learn the key tenets of classical liberalism and neo-liberalism
Learn the key tenets of classical realism and neo-realism
Learn the key tenets of social constructivism and feminism
Understand how the system of modern statehood has evolved
Learn about international relations in medieval europe
Recognise the importance of the the peace of augsburg and treaty of westphalia for modern statehood
Understand how international relations look differently from the chinese perspective
Learn about war and the causes of war
Learn about different theoretical ideas for international peace
Understand the role of league of nations and united nations in international peace
Understand the role of european integration in international peace
Learn about the international political economy and bretton woods institutions
Understand the differences between liberalism, realism and marxism in int. political economy
Learn about competing theoretical perspectives on globalisation
Learn about the impact of covid-19 on nationalism and globalisation
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Introduction

What to Expect in this Course

What You Will Learn

How You Will Learn

About the Author

In this section we explore the subject matter of International Relations

In this video we look at different definitions of International Relations

In this video we explore the understanding of International Relations as the organisation of political authority.

In this video we learn different impacts of the organisation of political authority.

In this video we explore Brexit and COVID-19 and how the organisation of political authority affects those problems.

In this video we explore China's foreign policy, regional conflicts and climate change, and how the organisation of political authority affects those problems.

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'What is International Relations?'

Learn the history of International Relations as a discipline, including the great debates.

Learn the key points about World War I, as the background for the emergence of International Relations as an academic discipline.

Learn how International Relations as a discipline was established after World War I

Learn about an interesting and unexpected twist in the early years of the discipline of International Relations.

Learn what the so-called first debate in International Relations was all about, focusing on idealism.

Learn what the so-called first debate in International Relations was all about, focusing on realism.

Explore how International Relations expanded after World War II.

Learn what the so-called Second Great Debate in International Relations was all about.

Explore in greater depth the so-called classical approach to International Relations, as understood by Hedley Bull.

Learn what the so-called Third Great Debate in International Relations was all about.

Explore textbooks, magazines and website to deepen your knowledge of International Relations.

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'The History of International Relations'.

In this section we will learn about what are theories, what are different kinds of theories and about levels of analysis.

Let's explore what is a theory and why we use theories.

Learn about explanatory theories and the inductive/deductive approaches.

Learn about predictive theories and the difference between correlation an causation.

Learn about normative theories.

Learn about the individual unit and system level analysis.

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'Thinking Theoretically about International Relations'.

In this section we will discuss a range of theories of International Relations.

Learn about classical realism.

Learn about Morgenthau's vision of political realism.

Learn about structural realism, also known as neo-realism.

Learn about Mearsheimer's perspective on offensive neo-realism.

Learn about classical liberalism - part 1.

Learn about classical liberalism - part 2.

Learn about Angell's perspective on international anarchy.

Learn about neo-liberal institutionalism.

Learn about Keohane's perspective on the role of information in International Relations.

Learn about social constructivism - part 1.

Learn about social constructivism - part 2.

Learn about my own research on the European Union and international security.

Learn about feminism in IR.

Learn about Tickner's perspective on feminism in IR.

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'Theories of International Relations'.

In this section we will discuss the evolution of inter-state relations from the Middle Ages.

Learn about the system of sovereign states as it exists today.

Learn about Holy Roman Empire and Church in Medieval Europe

Learn about political life in Medieval Europe.

Learn about the emergence of modern states system.

Learn about religious wars and the emergence of modern states.

Learn about the Peace of Augsburg in 1555.

Learn about the Peace of Westphalia in 1648.

Learn about the key elements of Peace of Westphalia

Learn about the Chinese state system

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'The Evolution of Inter-State Relations'.

In this section we will discuss the causes of war.

Learn about definitions of war.

Learn Hedley Bull's perspective on what is war.

Learn Hobbes' perspective on war in state of nature.

Learn Thucydides' perspective on war.

Learn about war in classical realism.

Learn about war in neorealism.

Learn about war in liberalism.

Let's reflect on what causes wars.

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'The Causes of War'.

In this section we will discuss the quest for international peace.

Learn how the quest for peace is the purpose of International Relations.

Learn about peace through the balance of power

Learn about Waltz's perspective on the balance of power.

Learn about the balance of power and the Cold War.

Learn about peace through collective security

Learn about collective security and the League of Nations.

Learn about the League of Nations Covenant

Learn about collective security and the United Nations.

Learn about the purpose of the United Nations.

Learn about peace through European Integration.

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'The Quest for International Peace'.

In this section we will discuss International Political Economy

Learn about Bretton Woods System: the World Bank.

Learnabout Bretton Woods system: International Monetary Fund

Learn about Bretton Woods system: World Trade Organisation

Learn about the liberal approach to International Political Economy.

Learn about Adam Smith and The Wealth of Nations

Learn about realist approach to International Political Economy.

Learn about John Mearsheimer and his take on American hegemony.

Learn about Marxist approach to International Political Economy.

Learn about Lenin and his take on capitalism and imperialism.

Learn about the theoretical approaches to globalisation.

Learn about economic inequality.

Will COVID-19 bring the end of globalisation?

In this quiz you can practice your knowledge and understanding of the section 'Practice International Political Economy'.

Bonus Lecture

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces students to the discipline of International Relations and the key books, magazines and websites to delve deeper into the subject

Provides a comprehensive overview of the major theories in International Relations, such as realism, liberalism, constructivism, and feminism, helping students to understand different perspectives on global politics and to engage in critical thinking

Suitable for beginners with no prior university education and provides a solid foundation in International Relations

Taught by Dr. Kamil Zwolski, a recognized expert in International Relations with 10+ years of teaching and research experience

Provides a historical perspective on the evolution of the international system and the emergence of modern states, giving students a deeper understanding of the roots of contemporary global issues

Covers a wide range of topics in International Relations, including war, peace, international organizations, and the global economy

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to International Relations with these activities:

Review 'International Relations' by Baylis, Smith, and Owens

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Review this comprehensive textbook to gain a broad understanding of the field of IR, including theories, concepts, and case studies.

View Introduction to Global Politics on Amazon

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Read the textbook carefully and take notes on key concepts and theories.
Summarize the main arguments of each chapter.
Identify the different perspectives on IR presented in the textbook.
Critically evaluate the book's arguments.

Review 'The Global Transformation' by Rosenau

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Review this book to build a strong foundation in theories and perspectives in International Relations.

View Turbulence in World Politics: A Theory of... on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes on key concepts and theories.
Summarize the main arguments of each chapter.
Identify the different perspectives on global transformation.
Critically evaluate the book's arguments.

Participate in a study group

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Join a study group to engage with other students, discuss course materials, and reinforce your understanding.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Find a study group or form one with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss course materials, work on assignments, and prepare for exams.
Take turns leading discussions and presenting your understanding of different topics.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Follow tutorials on international relations simulations

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Follow tutorials on international relations simulations to gain practical experience in applying theories and concepts.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Find a reputable online tutorial or course on international relations simulations.
Follow the instructions in the tutorial to set up and run the simulation.
Play the simulation and make decisions based on your understanding of international relations theories and concepts.
Reflect on the results of the simulation and identify areas for improvement.

Create a timeline of key events in IR

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Create a timeline of key events in IR to visualize the evolution of the field and identify patterns.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Research key events in the history of IR.
Select the most important events and organize them chronologically.
Create a visual representation of the timeline using a tool like Google Timeline or Microsoft Sway.
Add brief descriptions and explanations for each event.

Practice explaining the main theories of IR

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Practice explaining the main theories of IR to solidify your understanding of their key tenets.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Choose a theory of IR.
Identify the key assumptions, concepts, and arguments of the theory.
Explain the theory to someone who is not familiar with it.
Repeat steps 1-3 for different theories of IR.

Conduct a mock negotiation between two countries

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Conduct a mock negotiation between two countries to develop your negotiation skills and apply your understanding of IR theories.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Choose two countries and a topic for negotiation.
Research the interests and positions of both countries on the topic.
Develop a negotiation strategy for each country.
Conduct the mock negotiation, taking turns representing each country.
Reflect on the negotiation process and identify areas for improvement.

Develop a policy brief on a current international issue

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Develop a policy brief on a current international issue to apply your knowledge of IR theories to real-world problems.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Choose a current international issue that interests you.
Research the issue thoroughly, including different perspectives and policy options.
Develop a policy brief that outlines the issue, analyzes the options, and recommends a course of action.
Present your policy brief to a group of peers or experts for feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to International Relations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Diplomat

Diplomats play a vital role in international relations, representing their countries' interests abroad and negotiating with foreign governments. A course on introduction to international relations can provide a strong foundation for diplomats, as it will help them to understand the history of international relations, the major theories of IR, and the key topics that form the core of the discipline. This knowledge will be invaluable in helping diplomats to make informed decisions and to represent their countries effectively on the world stage.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diplomat

Foreign Policy Analyst

Foreign policy analysts provide expert advice on international relations to governments, businesses, and other organizations. A course on introduction to international relations can help foreign policy analysts to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this field. The course will provide them with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR, and it will also help them to develop their analytical and writing skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Policy Analyst

Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts collect, analyze, and interpret information about foreign governments, organizations, and individuals. A course on introduction to international relations can be a valuable asset for intelligence analysts, as it will help them to understand the context of the information they are analyzing. The course will also help them to develop the critical thinking skills needed to make sound judgments about the information they are analyzing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Intelligence Analyst

Journalist

Journalists who specialize in international relations report on the political, economic, and social issues that affect the world. A course on introduction to international relations can provide journalists with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to understand the complex issues they are reporting on and to provide their audiences with accurate and informed information.

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Lawyer

International lawyers specialize in the legal aspects of international relations. This field of law is complex and challenging, and a course in international relations can be a useful foundation for lawyers who want to practice in this area. The course will help lawyers understand the history, theories, and key topics of international relations, which will provide them with a strong foundation for understanding the legal issues in this field.

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Lobbyist

Lobbyists represent the interests of their clients before government officials. A course on introduction to international relations can be a valuable asset for lobbyists, as it will help them to understand the political and economic landscape of the countries in which they are lobbying. The course will also provide them with the skills they need to communicate effectively with government officials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lobbyist

Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. A course on introduction to international relations can be a valuable asset for nonprofit managers, as it will help them to understand the global context in which their organizations operate. The course will also help them to develop the skills they need to manage their organizations effectively and to achieve their goals.

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Political Scientist

Political scientists study the political systems of different countries and the interactions between countries on the world stage, A course on introduction to international relations can provide political scientists with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to understand the complex issues they are studying and to conduct research on international relations.

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Professor

Professors teach and conduct research in their chosen field of study. A course on introduction to international relations can be a valuable asset for professors who teach in this field. The course will provide them with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR, which will help them to teach their students effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Professor

Researcher

Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics, including international relations. A course on introduction to international relations can provide researchers with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to conduct research on international relations effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Researcher

Teacher

Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects, including international relations. A course on introduction to international relations can provide teachers with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to teach their students effectively.

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Writer

Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, including journalism, fiction, and non-fiction. A course on introduction to international relations can provide writers with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to write about international relations effectively.

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Consultant

Consultants provide advice and expertise to businesses and organizations on a variety of topics, including international relations. A course on introduction to international relations can provide consultants with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to provide their clients with sound advice on international relations.

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Editor

Editors review, edit, and publish written content for a variety of purposes, including journalism, fiction, and non-fiction. A course on introduction to international relations can provide editors with a strong foundation in the history, theories, and key topics of IR. This knowledge will help them to edit written content about international relations effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Editor

Archivist

Archivists preserve and manage historical documents and artifacts. A course on introduction to international relations can provide archivists with a strong foundation in the history of international relations. This knowledge will help them to understand the documents and artifacts they are preserving and managing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist