International Politics: World Order and Conflicts

An introductory-level course by FedericaX as part of the IPSAMOOC project

Course Description

"International Politics: World Order and Conflicts" is a comprehensive course that delves into the complex world of international politics. It explores the transformation of the global order since the end of the Cold War and the emergence of a multi-polar system. Students will gain a deep understanding of the driving forces behind contemporary world politics, examining key events, conflicts, and challenges that shape our global landscape.

What Students Will Learn

  • A thorough understanding of the post-World War II international order and its subsequent transformation
  • Analysis of major global events, including the collapse of Yugoslavia, the rise of China and Russia, and the Arab Spring
  • Insight into humanitarian crises and Western interventions in Bosnia, Kosovo, and Rwanda
  • Exploration of the expansion of radical Islam and global terrorism
  • Examination of frozen conflicts, such as the Arab-Israeli conflict
  • Understanding of global commons issues, including climate change, pollution, pandemics, and refugee challenges
  • Critical thinking skills to analyze and reflect on salient political issues affecting today's world

Pre-requisites

This course is designed for beginners and does not require any prior knowledge or specific skills in political science or international relations. However, a general interest in world affairs and current events would be beneficial.

Course Content

  • The post-World War II international order
  • The collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War
  • The transformation of the global system into a multi-polar structure
  • Regional and global challenges to world peace and order
  • The Balkans and the collapse of Yugoslavia
  • China and Russia's re-emergence as major global actors
  • Humanitarian crises and Western interventions
  • The Arab Spring and its aftermath
  • The rise of radical Islam and global terrorism
  • Frozen conflicts, including the Arab-Israeli conflict
  • Global commons issues (climate change, pollution, pandemics)
  • Refugee challenges and their impact on international politics

Who This Course Is For

  • Students interested in political science, international relations, and global affairs
  • Professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of world politics
  • Individuals curious about the forces shaping our global landscape
  • Anyone looking to develop critical thinking skills in analyzing international events

Real-World Applications

How learners can use these skills in the real world:

  1. Enhancing career prospects in fields such as diplomacy, international organizations, and global businesses
  2. Improving decision-making abilities in roles involving international relations or global policy
  3. Developing a more informed perspective on global news and current events
  4. Contributing to discussions and debates on international politics with well-rounded knowledge
  5. Understanding the complexities of global challenges and their potential solutions
  6. Applying critical thinking skills to analyze and interpret global political trends

By mastering the concepts taught in this course, students will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world and contribute meaningfully to discussions on international politics and global challenges.