IR5401 Concepts in International Political Theory

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

30

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 11

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Planned timetable

Mondays 10.00am - 12.00 noon

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr N E G Saunders

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr Natasha Saunders

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This module begins by examining the concept of 'international theory' as it has developed within International Relations since 1945 and introduces students to the broader idea of international political thought. The main body of the module consists of close readings and analysis of classic texts in the field, including works by figures such as Aristotle, Augustine, Hobbes, , Rousseau, Mill, Nietzsche and Marx along with more contemporary figures such as Rawls, Connolly, and Agamben.

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%

Re-assessment

3-hour Written Examination =100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

2-hour seminars.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Understand and explain the ideas of classical and contemporary international political theorists.
  • Understand and explain the contextual meaning of key concepts such as: war, peace, authority, legitimacy, civilisation, humanity, justice, order, anarchy, empire, nation, balance of power, power politics, rights, rationality, progress.
  • Understand and explain differences and similarities between classical and contemporary international thought.
  • Critically assess competing interpretations of classical texts, thinkers and theories in the light of the wider history of IPT.