IS 420 - Anarchy and Hierarchy in International Politics

Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 0
Credit Hours: 3

This course examines the degree of hierarchy, authority, and anarchy present in the international system since 1816 and its consequences for a variety of outcomes typical in international relations research. In so doing, students will be exposed to common theories, datasets, and findings in empirical international relations, with the expectation they will develop their own theories about a political phenomenon of interest. Students should gain an appreciation for the dynamic nature of concepts like power, capacity, capability, authority, and order that form the foundation of interstate behavior. Using those lessons, they should be able to develop interesting conclusions about the future position of the United States in the international system.