The Liberal International Order

Where has the international system been and where is it going? This seminar will explore the theory and practice of world order through a close examination of the post-WWII liberal international system. What is the postwar liberal order and how did it emerge? What makes it special? Is it over or just fading? Can and should it be saved, and if not, what might follow it? The class will answer these questions by drawing on various theoretical perspectives. Over the course of the semester, students will conduct independent yet related empirical research projects on the topic, linking history, theory, and contemporary policy.

(Note: This course is open to both SIPA students and to Columbia College, Barnard College, and Columbia GS students. As a prerequisite for admission, students must have taken at least one of these courses at SIPA, Columbia, or Barnard: Foundations of International Security Policy, Current Debates in Global Affairs and Public Policy, or Introduction to International Relations.