International Affairs Class Study Notes

Overview of the Class Structure and Purpose

• The class is an introduction to international affairs, which is deemed one of the toughest classes to teach and take.

• Students have covered a broad range of topics in international studies and global affairs, allowing them to contemplate future academic directions.

• Recognition of students’ efforts and the pride in the diverse topics explored from the beginning of the semester through various events.

Semester Wrap-Up and Instructor Information

• Instructor's Background:

  • The instructor is a historian from the history department.

  • Will be on sabbatical next spring, teaching a global World War II class and possibly a course titled "America through Baseball" next fall.

  • Available to discuss future coursework and topics regarding US Diplomacy from a historian’s perspective.

Examination Content and Structure

• Students need to know their final exam schedule by December 1.

• The final exam will not cover the slides shown in the class; students should focus on lectures and the textbook for preparation.

Themes Addressed Throughout the Class

• Future of International Affairs:

  • Students are encouraged to contemplate the trajectory of global events and conflicts, particularly in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict and shifting global powers.

  • Questions raised about the potential for increases in nationalism, authoritarianism, and the future of democracy globally.

  • Discussion of the perceived global movement towards authoritarianism evidenced by recent political climates worldwide and how it affects US politics.

• Military Solutions and Policies:

  • Discussions on the role of military intervention in foreign affairs and its implications.

  • Mention of the ongoing investigations surrounding military leadership and their impacts on administration policy regarding military action.

• Technological Influence in Global Affairs:

  • The rise of technology and AI has affected academic integrity and assessment methods in university settings.

  • Critical reflection on whether technology will control us or if we can harness it for productive uses in international relations.

• Poverty and Global Inequality:

  • Analysis of economic disparities, particularly the North-South divide and Gini coefficient interpretations to assess inequalities.

  • The impact of economic policies on global wealth distribution and the persistence of poverty despite economic growth in some areas.

• Globalization vs. Protectionism:

  • Discussion of the effects of globalization on national economies and the rise of protectionist policies in recent times. The Trump's administration has been cited as a significant shift towards protectionism.

  • Impact of tariffs on economic behavior and consumer pricing.

• Cultural Homogeneity vs. Diversity:

  • Exploration of globalization’s impact on cultural diversity, questioning if it leads to homogenization or if distinct cultural identities remain vibrant and intact.

• Environmental Issues:

  • Future prospects for environmental health, dangers of climate change, and whether concerted global efforts can lead to improvements.

  • Inquiry into personal responsibilities towards environmental preservation and activism.

• Gender Equality and Societal Norms:

  • Discussion on the progress of gender equality and how policies and societal views shape the interaction of genders, particularly in terms of intersectionality and the patriarchy.

Philosophical Underpinnings of International Relations

• Realism vs. Liberalism:

  • The class stresses understanding the fundamental ideological divides in international affairs:

  • Realism: Pessimistic, self-interested views of human nature focusing on power and military capability.

  • Liberalism: Optimistic view emphasizing cooperation, humanitarian concerns, and institutional development.

• Constructivism and Marxism:

  • Exploration of constructivism, examining the social structures shaping world affairs and power relations.

  • Marxist perspectives discussing economic disparities and the necessity for revolutions and fundamental changes to the system as a means of social justice.

Conclusion: Engaging with Concepts and Ideas

• The instructor emphasizes the importance of caring about the issues discussed in class, recognizing that students are the future of public discourse and international affairs.

• Encouragement to be active participants in shaping the world and the desire for students to reflect on their ethical responsibilities in their future careers.

Final Exam Information

• Format: Two essays must be written on one question based on material from chapters 10-13 (excluding chapter 14).

• Students are encouraged to bring notes from readings, but the main focus will be on lectures.

• Exam duration is expected to be two and a half hours with directives regarding accommodations for individual needs.