DAFF 25A97 - Critical Theories of International Relations. The making of the Modern World Order

This is an undergraduate module that covers advanced theories of International Relations. The course explores central questions of international politics by examining the different traditions of thought about the character and nature of ‘the international’. The course goes beyond realist and liberal theories to explore a counter-history of the theory on international politics and covers topics such as Marxism, feminism, post-colonialism, international political sociology, migration, environmental studies or critical approaches to the international order and its institutional structures.. You will therefore learn how ‘the international’ was constructed as a field of study throughout capitalist modernity, and how these theories are connected to the practice of international relations. The course ends by relating international theory to contemporary events, such as the global war on terror and the rise of the far-right.

There is no previous requirement to take this course, although familiarity with the main theories of International Relations, knowledge of world events and an interest in politics are useful.

1.- Research proposal (15%): You will write a one-page long research proposal outlining the topic, relevance and methods of your final paper, which will be later discussed with your supervisor during the feedback session in week 7. You will be able to choose your own research question.

2.- Final paper (45%): A final research paper on the research proposal’s topic. This paper will be between 2,000 and 2,500 words.