Contemporary Issues in World Politics from edX

This course is part of the IPSAMOOC project, a joint venture Federica Weblearning - IPSA, the International Political Science Association

Withthe demise of the Soviet Unionand the end of the Cold War, the World Order that had been established after the Second World War began to undergo significant transformation. After a short period of euphoria during which Eastern Europe was incorporated into NATO and the European Union, and a slightly longer-lived period of American predominance in the international system, a multi-polar system set in. Developments at both the regional and global levels have emerged to challenge world peace and order.

This course reviews the driving forces of International Politics. It first describes the post-World War II international order before moving on to look at its breakdown and resultant transformation.

The course explores thorny issues in contemporary World Politics, including disorders in the Balkansthat resulted from the collapse of Yugoslavia; the rise of China and the return of Russia as major actors on the world stage; and the humanitariancrises in Bosnia and Kosovo where the West intervened, as well as Rwanda and others, where it did not.

We'll then conduct an analysis of the Arab Spring, where democratic aspirations mainly failed and the resulting dislocations fanned the expansion of radical Islam and the associated wave of global terrorism. The course will also examine frozen conflicts such as the Arab-Israeli conflict, and conclude by looking at the problems of the global commons; such as climate change, pollution, pandemics, and growing refugeechallenges.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Factual and historical knowledge of world politics
Core issues and trends that affect world politics

How to reflect critically on the salient political issues affecting today's world

Factual and historical knowledge of world politics
Core issues and trends that affect world politics
How to reflect critically on the salient political issues affecting today's world

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers timely issues in contemporary World Politics, such as the Arab Spring, the rise of China, and the return of Russia as major actors

Examines thorny issues in world politics, including disorders in the Balkans, humanitarian crises, and frozen conflicts

Reviews driving forces of international politics and the transformation of the World Order since the Second World War

Imparts factual and historical knowledge of world politics

Teaches critical reflection on salient political issues affecting today's world

Taught by instructors Mehmet Ali Tuğtan and İlter Turan

Reviews summary

Informative cold war history

Learners say this informative course delves into contemporary world politics, focusing largely on the Cold War era and its impact on present times. The expert instructors do an excellent job explaining geopolitical conflicts and major issues, leading to a vivid understanding of the rise of a new international order. While one learner suggests exploring underlying factors in more detail, the provided reading materials after every class earn praise for reinforcing the learning experience.

Instructors are experts in the field, providing clear explanations.

"The instructors were able to explain the background to these very succinctly."

"The tutors were experts in the field and really explained the contemporary issues faced the world during the cold war era upto the present time."

Course provides a wealth of knowledge on contemporary world politics.

"Its a very informative course which was well designed and structured."

"I really enjoyed reading the extra material which gave a very good insight into the powers at play during the times gone by."

"The reading material which has been provided after every class is a unique and inventive idea."

Some learners suggest exploring underlying factors and causes in more detail.

"It would have been more beneficial if the underlying factors, leading or contributing to that event could have explored in more details."

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 Contemporary Issues in World Politics with these activities:

Review: The Clash of Civilizations

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Reading this influential work provides a framework for understanding the role of cultural differences in international relations.

View The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of... on Amazon

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Read the assigned chapters from the book.
Summarize the main arguments and evidence presented.

Review political science fundamentals

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Review key concepts and theories in political science to strengthen your understanding of the course material.

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Read introductory textbooks and articles on political science.
Revisit lecture notes or online resources from previous political science courses.
Complete practice quizzes and exercises to test your knowledge.

Practice map exercises

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Strengthen your understanding of the geopolitical landscape by practicing identifying countries, borders, and other geographical features.

Browse courses on Geopolitics

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Use online map quizzes or resources to test your knowledge.
Study maps of different regions and identify key geographical features.
Practice drawing maps to improve your spatial reasoning.

Four other activities

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Participate in online discussion forums

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Engaging in discussions with peers fosters critical thinking, different perspectives, and a deeper understanding of course material.

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Actively participate in online discussion forums or study groups.
Share your thoughts, ask questions, and respond to others.

Write a brief analysis of a current event

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Applying course concepts to analyze real-world events deepens your understanding of the dynamics of international politics.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Choose a recent news article or event related to world politics.
Identify the key actors, issues, and perspectives involved.
Apply relevant theories and concepts from the course to analyze the event.
Write a concise and well-argued analysis of your findings.

Explore case studies of international conflicts

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Analyzing real-world case studies provides valuable insights into the complexities of international conflict and cooperation.

Browse courses on Conflict Resolution

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Identify reputable sources or documentaries on historical or ongoing international conflicts.
Gather information about the parties involved, the causes, and the outcomes of the conflict.
Apply course theories and concepts to understand the dynamics of the conflict.

Volunteer with an international aid organization

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Practical experience in the field deepens your understanding of the challenges and rewards of international politics.

Browse courses on Humanitarian Aid

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Research and identify international aid organizations that align with your interests.
Apply for volunteer positions and undergo any necessary training.

Career center

Learners who complete Contemporary Issues in World Politics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

International Relations Professor

In this course, you will delve into the intricacies of the global stage. As an International Relations Professor, you are tasked with educating future generations about the dynamics that shape our world. This course provides a solid foundation in the historical evolution of international order and its current complexities, equipping you with the knowledge and insights to effectively navigate and analyze international affairs.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Relations Professor

Foreign Service Officer

As a Foreign Service Officer, you represent your country abroad, bridging cultures and fostering diplomacy. The course will provide you with a deep understanding of global political issues, enabling you to effectively engage with foreign dignitaries and navigate the complexities of international relations.

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Policy Advisor

In this role, you will provide expert advice to policymakers on complex global issues. Understanding the drivers of world politics and the challenges facing the international community is crucial for this role. This course equips you with the knowledge and analytical skills to make informed recommendations that shape policy decisions.

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International Correspondent

As an International Correspondent, you report on global events and analyze their impact on the world stage. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of contemporary world politics, empowering you to provide insightful commentary and shed light on critical issues shaping the global landscape.

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International Lawyer

International Lawyers navigate the complex legal frameworks governing global affairs. This course provides a strong foundation in international law and its application in resolving international disputes and promoting global cooperation. It will equip you with the knowledge and skills to effectively represent clients and advocate for justice on a global scale.

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International Development Specialist

As an International Development Specialist, you work to improve the lives of people around the world. This course provides insights into global political dynamics and the challenges facing developing countries. It will help you understand the complexities of international aid and development efforts, equipping you to effectively contribute to sustainable solutions.

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Political Risk Analyst

Political Risk Analysts assess and mitigate risks associated with global political events. The course will provide you with a deep understanding of international relations and the factors that influence political stability. It will equip you with the skills to analyze geopolitical landscapes and make informed judgments on potential risks and opportunities.

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Human Rights Advocate

Human Rights Advocates champion the protection and promotion of human rights globally. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of international human rights law and the challenges faced in its implementation. It will equip you with the knowledge and advocacy skills to effectively fight for the rights of marginalized communities and promote social justice on a global scale.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Rights Advocate

Diplomat

Diplomats represent their countries in international negotiations and foster diplomatic relations. The course will provide you with a deep understanding of international relations, diplomacy, and the art of negotiation. It will equip you with the skills to effectively represent your country, build bridges between nations, and promote peace and cooperation.

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Global Affairs Consultant

In this role, you advise clients on global political and economic trends and help them navigate the complexities of the international business environment. The course will provide you with a broad understanding of world politics and the factors influencing global markets. It will equip you with the knowledge and analytical skills to provide strategic insights and help clients make informed decisions.

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Journalist

As a Journalist, you report on and analyze current events, both locally and globally. The course provides a deep understanding of contemporary world politics and the ability to critically analyze and report on complex issues. It will equip you with the skills to effectively convey important stories and inform the public about the challenges and opportunities facing our world.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Nonprofit Program Manager

In your role, you oversee international aid and development programs, working to improve the lives of people in developing countries. The course will provide you with a solid understanding of global political dynamics and the challenges facing developing regions. It will equip you with the knowledge and management skills to effectively design and implement programs that make a meaningful impact.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Program Manager

Think Tank Researcher

Think Tank Researchers conduct in-depth research and analysis on global political issues. This course provides a strong foundation in international relations and the methods of political science research. It will equip you with the skills to conduct independent research, analyze data, and make informed recommendations on policy issues.

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International Business Manager

As an International Business Manager, you oversee global operations and manage跨国teams. The course will provide you with a broad understanding of international business practices and the political and economic factors that influence global markets. It will equip you with the skills to effectively lead and manage international teams and navigate the complexities of doing business across borders.

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Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence Analysts collect, analyze, and disseminate information to inform decision-making at the national and international levels. The course will provide you with a deep understanding of international relations and the methods of intelligence analysis. It will equip you with the skills to assess global threats, identify emerging trends, and provide timely and accurate intelligence reports.

See salaries and explore the career path for Intelligence Analyst