DAFF 25A42 - Causes of War

What is to be known about the causes and mechanisms of political crisis and wars? What factors and elements allow us to closely analyze them and can provide us with insight? What about the understanding of political decision makers' motivations and the construction of States' interests in times of crisis? The objective of this course is to establish a theoretical grid of analysis to prepare us for the study of the origins of conflicts. By analyzing actors' interests, discourses, policies and actions through the application of international relations theory, we will be able to understand the motivations and intentions of the parties to the conflict. We will then attempt to ‘test' theories within the framework of case studies and answer our research question through methodological research

Solène SOOSAITHASAN-VIMALASELVAN

Séminaire

English

Spring 2024-2025

Grades Grades will be determined as follows: Oral Participation = 20% → This will be based on students' class individual participation, preparation and discussion of reading material. This is an individual grade. Oral Presentation = 30% *** Presentation dates will be assigned on the first class. Presentation guidelines → Students have to prepare an oral presentation on one of the assigned topics. The presentation should not be a summary of the reading material for the week. Students are expected to conduct research on the assigned topic and must find sources other than those provided in class. It is in your best interest to take into account any remarks, questions or observations during the debate. The presentation should be no longer than 20 minutes (maximum) per group. → Students should provide the class with a 1 page hard copy summary of their presentation (key words, research question and a detailed outline with bullet points) + bibliography. Students can send it at least 2 days before to the instructor to her email address if they want feedback: solene.soosaithasan@sciencespo.fr. → Grading will be based on clarity, organization, professionalism, the use supports and examples, accuracy of applied theory and methodology, and on students' ability to synthesize historical facts and conclude. This is typically a group grade. Final Report = 50% *** to submit before ….