This class will explore comparative approaches to statecraft. It will examine the sources and conduct of statecraft in modern world politics. The course will be divided into three parts. The first part of the course will cover theories, concepts, the sources and implementation of statecraft, and the components of order in the international system. The second part of the course will examine different dimensions of power and statecraft, including concepts related to modern military power and alliances, hybrid and information warfare, sanctions and economic statecraft, as well as how new emerging technologies shape the conduct of statecraft in world politics. The third and final component of the course will focus on applying these concepts to assessing Russian, Chinese, and American statecraft.
Throughout the course, students will critically evaluate different dimensions of statecraft and apply them to real-world cases. Assignments throughout the course will provide students opportunities to apply research and critical thinking skills, as well as practice communicating to different types of audiences in a clear and succinct manner.
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of theories of international relations and apply them in analyzing events and outcomes in world affairs.
- Demonstrate knowledge of principal contemporary global challenges in the field of international security.
- Apply research skills to address problems in the field of international affairs.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the influences that drive security policy formulation and execution.
Course Text
All required readings are in Canvas under the “Reading List” tab.
Assignment
Weight (Percentage, points, etc.)
(2) Analytical Paper
25%
(3) Guided Response Papers
25%
(1) Policy Brief
25%
(1) Op-Ed
25%
Grading Scale
Your final grade will be assigned as a letter grade according to the following scale:
A 90-100%
B 80-89%
C 70-79%
D 60-69%
F 0-59%
Submitting Assignments
All assignments (homework, knowledge checks, exams etc.) must be completed and submitted within the Canvas. Sending assignments (homework, knowledge checks, exams etc.), whether early, on time, or late to the professors is not permitted and will not be accepted. If there are technical issues, please notify the help desk, as well as the professor immediately.
Assignment Due Dates
All assignments will be due at the times listed above. These times are subject to change so please check back often. Please convert from Eastern Time to your local time zone using a Time Zone Converter.
Late and Make-up Work Policy
Late work will be marked down by one letter grade and an additional letter grade every 24 hours after it is late.
Lecture videos are provided virtually.
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.