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 seminar in English, followed by an introductory seminar on social science methods and IR in summer 2026

This course introduces international relations (IR) theory as a set of analytical tools for making sense of world politics. Rather than moving through the familiar catalogue of “-isms,” the course takes a conceptual approach, focusing on how different theoretical perspectives function as lenses through which we can interpret global affairs. The emphasis is not simply on becoming familiar with theories, but on learning how to apply them selectively and critically, using the right tool for the right kind of problem.

Each week, students will examine competing theoretical causal arguments from academic articles and connect them to a central issue in world politics. The focus is not to decide which theory is “true” or “false,” but to assess the truthfulness of the claims each perspective makes, that is, how well a particular lens clarifies certain dynamics, and where its blind spots or distortions lie. This practice of comparison and critique encourages students to see the world simultaneously through multiple lenses while still making deliberate, selective judgments about which ones offer the most explanatory power in specific contexts.

By the end of the course, students will:
•    Understand the major theoretical and conceptual approaches to international relations, recognise their contributions and limitations.
•    Develop the ability to critically evaluate theoretical claims through application to real-world events.
•    Cultivate the capacity to shift between perspectives, weigh their strengths and weaknesses, and use them as interpretive tools in both scholarly and policy debates.