Global Politics from Coursera

The course explains why international studies originating from the West are currently evolving towards a planetary approach to World politics, with a particular focus on global order and local disorders. Thinking globally helps explain new linkages between changes in the natural environment (demography, climate) and transformations of institutional designs.

Will societies and peoples find a way to get along together in the long run despite intractable conflicts and divergence of social and national interests? Will States delegate enough sovereignty to universal organizations, breaking definitely with Hobbes’ constant (no transfer of power beyond national borders)? Will the World ever be governed, and more democratically governed?

To answer this series of central questions, global politics draws on anthropology, history, sociology, economics and psychology. A mix of paradigms comforts this mix of disciplines, since no single approach may suffice to explain global issues. Combining various ways of thinking is conducive to a fuller account of the myriads of transactions that make the planet evolve towards a more complex equilibrium.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Global Politics

This module presents an initial first exploration of the field of “Global Politics”. You will be introduced to global politics and the epistemological foundation of international studies, and you will understand the nature and components of the current international order, and the challenges relating to war, peace, and the steps towards the institutionalization of the world.

Society of States, of the Peoples, and Military Hegemony

This module presents the transition from a Society of States to a Society of the People. You will be introduced to the mechanisms which ensure the coexistence of incompatible political regimes, and learn more about how – and who – maintain order, exploring the main elements of military hegemony.

New global challenges, organizations, governance

This module explores the main new global challenges. You will learn about the reorganization and disorganization of the nation-State, and about the rise of disorder and its impact on states. You will then navigate the different global goods and the relative global harms, by analyzing the most basic features of interstate cooperation and the emergence of international non-governmental organizations.

Towards a brave new world

This module presents the main characteristics of intergovernmental organizations, and opens to scenarios in global politics. You will learn about the expansion and collaboration of Ios, as well as the most important characteristic of a network. Therefore, the module explores the conditions for an institutionalization of the world and the key elements of cosmopolitism.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines the evolution of international studies towards a planetary approach, providing a comprehensive understanding of global politics

Taught by Yves Schemeil, a recognized expert in international politics

Draws on multiple disciplines, including anthropology, history, sociology, economics, and psychology, providing a multifaceted perspective on global issues

Focuses on current global challenges, such as climate change and the rise of disorder, making the course highly relevant to contemporary issues

Explores the potential for global governance and the challenges to achieving it, providing insights into the future of international relations

Suitable as an introductory course for students new to global politics or as a refresher for those seeking to update their knowledge

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 Global Politics with these activities:

Review International Relations Concepts

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Sharpen your understanding of fundamental International Relations concepts to prepare for success in this course.

Browse courses on International Relations

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Read a textbook or article on International Relations theory.
Review your notes from a previous International Relations course.
Discuss International Relations concepts with a friend or colleague.

Read 'International Relations: A Very Short Introduction' by Tim Dunne

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Gain a clear and concise overview of the key concepts and theories of International Relations.

View International Relations Theories: Discipline... on Amazon

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Read and make notes on the book's chapters.
Summarize the main arguments and theories presented in the book.

Attend a Workshop on Global Negotiations

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Learn practical negotiation skills and strategies relevant to international relations and global affairs.

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Identify relevant workshops or events.
Register and attend the workshop.
Actively participate in discussions and exercises.

Three other activities

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Explore Case Studies on Global Politics

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Deepen your understanding of how global political forces play out in practice.

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Select a case study from a reputable source.
Research the background and key players involved.
Analyze the case study using relevant International Relations theories and concepts.
Present your findings to the class or a study group.

Develop a Blog Post on a Global Issue

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Enhance your critical thinking and communication skills by exploring a global issue in depth.

Browse courses on Global Issues

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Choose a global issue of interest.
Research and gather information from credible sources.
Develop a thesis statement and outline for your blog post.
Write your blog post, ensuring to provide evidence and analysis.

Prepare a Policy Brief on a Global Challenge

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Demonstrate your ability to synthesize information and propose evidence-based solutions to global challenges.

Browse courses on Global Challenges

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Identify a global challenge that interests you.
Research and gather data from reputable sources.
Develop a clear and concise policy brief outline.
Write your policy brief, including recommendations and supporting evidence.

Career center

Learners who complete Global Politics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Political Scientist

Political Scientists study and analyze global politics and international relations. To do this, you must be a leading expert in this field. This course in Global Politics would be directly relevant to your groundbreaking work, as it will help you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in global politics and international relations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist

International Relations Professor

International Relations Professors teach and conduct research on global politics and international relations. To do this, you must be a leading expert in this field. This course in Global Politics would be directly relevant to your groundbreaking work, as it will help you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in global politics and international relations.

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Diplomat

Diplomats are responsible making connections and negotiating agreements between different countries. They must understand the global political landscape, and the history and challenges of international relationships. This course in Global Politics would lay a crucial foundation for understanding the work you do on a daily basis as a Diplomat.

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International Educator

International Educators teach about global politics and international relations. To do this, you must be a leading expert in this field. This course in Global Politics would be highly relevant to your work as an International Educator, by providing up-to-date knowledge on critical topics in global politics.

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Peacebuilder

Peacebuilders work to prevent and resolve conflict in the global context. To do this, you must have a deep understanding of global politics and international relations. This course in Global Politics would help you build a solid foundation in the critical topics that affect global peace.

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International Lawyer

International Lawyers practice law in the global context. They must understand international law and the global political landscape. This course in Global Politics would help you build a strong foundation for understanding the global political landscape, which would be essential for your success as an International Lawyer.

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International Consultant

International Consultants advise governments, businesses, and organizations on issues related to global politics. To do this, you must be able to effectively analyze the global political landscape, and understand the challenges of international relations. You must also be adept at problem-solving. This course in Global Politics would help provide the foundational knowledge in critical issues and problem-solving you need to be successful in this role.

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International Security Analyst

International Security Analysts analyze and provide insight on global politics and international relations. To do this, you must have a strong understanding of the global security landscape. This course in Global Politics would help you build a solid foundation in the critical topics that affect global security.

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Policy Advisor

Policy Advisors advise governments and organizations on global politics and international relations. To do this, you must have a solid understanding of this field. This course in Global Politics would help you build a strong foundation in the critical topics that affect global politics and international relations.

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International Journalist

International Journalists report on global politics and international relations. To do this, you must be familiar with the important issues in global politics and be able to understand international relations. This course in Global Politics would provide you with the solid grasp of global politics and international relations that you need to be successful.

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Multinational Business Executive

Multinational Business Executives are responsible for overseeing the global operations of multinational corporations. To do this, you must have a strong understanding of global politics and international relations. This course in Global Politics would help you build a solid foundation in global politics and international relations, which would be essential for your success.

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Foreign Policy Advisor

Foreign Policy Advisors are employed to help shape a country's foreign policy. To be effective in this role, you must have expertise in global politics and international relations. This course in Global Politics would help you build a strong foundation for the critical analysis you do on a daily basis, to help inform foreign policy decisions.

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International NGO Leader

International NGO Leaders are responsible for leading and managing non-governmental organizations that work on global issues. To do this, you must have a strong understanding of global politics and international relations. This course in Global Politics would provide you with the knowledge and expertise you need to lead and manage an INGO.

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Teacher

Social Studies Teachers may explore global politics and international relations as part of their work. This course in Global Politics would be helpful in your preparation to lead a Social Studies classroom, providing a deeper understanding of the global political landscape and international relations.

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Researcher

Researchers may explore global politics and international relations as part of their work. This course in Global Politics would be highly relevant to your research work and may lead to a deeper understanding of the global political landscape and international relations..

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