The study of how nations and their governments, institutions and societies interact on a global scale. Students of international relations explore how formal diplomatic ties and informal networks like trade agreements, regional alliances, and international organizations influence global politics. A master’s degree in this field can help students advance their exploration of global challenges and prepare for a variety of globally minded careers.
A school of thought that emphasizes the need for an international community with shared values and ideals to address global challenges like poverty, hunger and climate change. This approach to IR stresses the need for cooperation between states, which is difficult given that countries are typically motivated by self-interest and do not know what other states will ultimately do. This approach to IR is also known as liberalism or neo-liberalism.
An international policy theory that argues that an abundance of natural resources such as minerals and energy is a curse rather than a blessing, because the winner-takes-all struggle for control leads to corruption and authoritarianism. This view of international affairs is often compared to Marxism.
A political strategy that tries to alter a state’s actions by publicly naming and shaming it for its poor human rights record. It is a form of soft power that is often employed by international NGOs such as Amnesty International. This type of policy is often contrasted with hard power, which relies on military might and economic leverage. Also called realism or liberalism.
