The world is becoming more connected. The forces of Globalization have provided many opportunities for the world, but have also created new threats. This course will examine the main issues we now face in a global world. At the conclusion of this class students will be able to identify how the world has become more connected on a variety of issues (economics, human rights, conflict etc) and what this level of interconnectedness means for us in Canada and for others around the world. The class begins with an examination of the forces that shaped the international system and the nature of that international system of sovereign states. The course then focuses on the issues that are most relevant in a global world today: interstate conflict, economic integration, terrorism, international organization and law, the environment and population. The list of topics is not exhaustive but does provide a cross section of the most important issues and problems we now face.
Text
There is only one required text in this course which is available in the UTM bookstore.
Allen Sens and Peter Stoett (2009) Global Politics: Origins, Currents, Directions,4th
Edition (Toronto: Thomson Nelson)
Other readings will be placed on Reserve in the library when noted in the syllabus. While not required students are encouraged to read a major newspaper everyday as current events will be an integral aspect of the course.
Course Requirements
Participation in Tutorial 10% (As determined by the TA)
Midterm Test 20% (October 9)
Essay 30% (November 6)
Final Exam 40% (December - TBD)
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