INTERNATIONAL POLITICS

This introductory course surveys key topics in the study of international politics, including the causes of war and peace; the efficacy of international law and human rights; the origins of international development and underdevelopment; the politics of global environmental protection; and the future of US-China relations. Throughout the course, we will focus on the interests of the many actors of world politics, including states, politicians, firms, bureaucracies, international organizations, and nongovernmental organizations; the interactions between them; and the institutions in which they operate. By the end of the semester, students will be better equipped to systematically study international relations and make informed contributions to critical policy debates.

BEGINNING IN FALL 2025, BARNARD STUDENTS WISHING TO TAKE INTERNATIONAL POLITICS FOR INTRO CREDIT TOWARD THE MAJOR MUST TAKE POLS-BC1610. If Barnard students enroll in POLS-UN2601, the course will only count toward their major as elective credit.

Columbia College students who take POLS-BC1610 can only apply the course toward their major for elective credit.

Students may not get credit for more than one of the following courses:  POLS BC1610, POLS UN1601, or POLS-UN2601.