IR 542 British School of International Relations (3-0)3

Course Objective

This graduate seminar aims at introducing the students to the British School of International Relations. First, it places the British School in the 'British tradition' and attempts to uncover its historical origins. Secondly, it distinguishes the British School from other schools of International Relations such as the Realist School, Behaviouralist School and World System School. Then, it proceeds to critically examine the works of the representative scholars identified with the School. While examining the relevant authors, basic tenets of the School are to be explored in such conceptions as the typology of civilisations and systems of states which are considered to be the principal units of analysis; the units identified on the basis of the cultural or civilisational element; the Janus-headed nature of international relations; a commitment to the idea of universal history and of the whole; a broad historical perspective which shows the historical parallels to current problems; men being the ultimate members of principal units; the search for universally adopted values and the stress on the need for a more cosmopolitan culture; and some idea of a via media. Finally, the promises and the prospects of the British School will be discussed.

Course Content

This graduate seminar entails a general survey and a critical appraisal of the British School of International Relations. First, it places the British School in the "British tradition" and attempts to uncover its historical origins. Secondly, it distinguishes the British School from other schools of International Relations such as the Realist School, Behavioralist School and World System School. Then, it proceeds to critically examine the work of the representative scholars identified with the School.

Learning Outcomes

Students will get familiarized with the development of IR as a suject of study in Britain and with the writings of early generation of the British School. They will get a close view of how the British perspective differs from the american one and what it holds for the actual world of international relations

Syllabus Available

Last Updated ( Friday, 09 February 2007 )