Time Schedule:
Robin Datta
POL S 426
Seattle Campus
The nation-state system and its alternatives, world distributions of preferences and power, structure of international authority, historical world societies and their politics. Offered: jointly with JSIS B 426.
Class description
Description: This course examines the future of state sovereignty in an international system increasingly characterized by problems that transcend national borders. Following a discussion of traditional theories of sovereignty in which we consider whether or not sovereignty itself is receding, changing, or remaining powerful, we will focus on the tensions inherent in fitting sovereignty with an evolving set of international norms and institutions designed to address these problems. Potential topics for discussion include, but are not limited to: q How should states address the impact of health crises like AIDS and Mad Cow Disease? q What should be done to address the problems of global crime and nuclear smuggling? q How should human rights and environmental concerns be addressed? q How might the global transmission of culture contribute to political change? q How best to deal with refugees? q Can there be a balance between a respect for national sovereignty and humanitarian intervention?
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Texts: Articles obtained through the Library's e-journal collection and texts placed on reserve.
Class assignments and grading
Assignments: This course will be conducted as a seminar. Depending on enrollment, each student (or teams if warranted) will research a particular problem, assess and respond to the current scholarship concerning that issue, and present for general discussion.
Grading: Your grade will be based on: 2 Short Response Papers 35 % 1 Issue Presentation & Paper 40 % Class Participation 25 % Total 100 %
