Our Virtual Learning Environment

Why do states do what they do in their interactions beyond their borders? This course introduces the theory and practice of foreign policy, first by exploring the fundamental concepts in foreign policy formulation and implementation, and then by applying these conceptual ideas to a number of different nation-states. We consider the tools, theories, and concepts necessary to analyze the foreign policies of different international actors. We examine a number of sources of foreign policy, including individual policy makers, characteristics of the domestic political environment, and international systemic factors. We will examine case studies of real foreign policy events to illustrate and evaluate the concepts introduced.

By the end of the course students should have an appreciation and critical understanding of the basis and rationale for different countries' policies in the world, and basic knowledge of the foreign policies of the countries we study in the course, as well as those of other countries.

This course will comprise one 2-hour lecture per week for 13 weeks.

Friday 10 a.m. -12 p.m., Chem 5
This course provides students with an understanding of the central elements of the theory and practice of negotiation and bargaining. Cases of actual negotiations, along with simulations, will link practice to the theoretical and empirical literature. We will examine the nature of conflict in the international arena; the special characteristics of negotiation in the international setting; pre-negotiation and the problems of inducing parties to negotiate; negotiation dynamics; the roles of culture and power; and the strategy and tactics of international negotiation.

The coursealso aims at developing and combining analytical and interpersonal skills indispensable to successful negotiations; enabling students to develop negotiation strategies based on an understanding of the context of the situation, the interests of the parties, and the range of options available to them; developing inter personal skills to facilitate communication, trust building and mutual persuasion; and providing basic tools suitable for developing negotiations skills.