Introduction to International Relations

Introduction to International Relations provides a foundation for understanding how states, international organizations, non-state actors, and societies interact within world politics. Students study realism, liberalism, constructivism, and critical approaches to international relations alongside sovereignty, power, national interest, diplomacy, foreign policy, security, international law, political economy, and global governance structures. Examples drawn from Africa and the Horn of Africa connect abstract theoretical concepts to practical, real-world political questions that students can readily recognize and evaluate. Through structured readings, guided discussions, quizzes, and applied analysis exercises, learners compare competing theoretical explanations, correctly identify relevant actors and their underlying interests, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of specific policy choices. The course prepares students to interpret unfolding international events with great care, notable rigor, and sound practical judgment, construct clear evidence-based arguments about world affairs, and understand the recurring dynamics of cooperation and conflict that define a constantly changing global political system today.