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853-0048-01L 3 Credits DS D-GESS
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International Politics: Theory and Methods

Internationale Politik: Theorie und Analysemethoden

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Frank Schimmelfennig
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:40:41

Abstract

The course covers the main theories (realism, institutionalism, liberalism, transnationalism and constructivism) as well as core problems of international politics such as war, peace, international cooperation and integration.

Objective

First, the course seeks to generate a better understanding of the central and specific problems of politics in the international realm, which result from the absence of centralized rule enforcement ("anarchy") . In addition, participants become familiar with the main theories of International Relations and the mechanisms and conditions these identify for solving international problems of security and cooperation. Case studies on areas and issues of international politics provide an overview of current international developments and an exemplary application of IR theory.

Content

1. The subject-matter and problems of international politics Theories 2. Power and Balance: Realism 3. Problem structures and negotiations in international politics 4. Interdependence and Institutions: Institutionalism and Transnationalism 5. Democracy and Society: Liberalism 6. Identity and Community: Constructivism Issue Areas and Relationships 7. War: New Wars 8. Peace: The "long" and the "democratic" peace 9. Security cooperation: the new NATO 10. Economic cooperation: the world trade order 11. Human rights cooperation: global and regional human rights regimes 12. Legitimacy and Democracy in Global Governance

Resources

Lecture Notes

Schimmelfennig, Frank: Internationale Politik. Paderborn: Schöningh Verlag, 5. Auflage, 2017.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
DS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Internationale Politik: Theorie und Analysemethoden
  • Mon 09:00-12:00 (ER SA TZ)
  • Mon 09:15-12:00 (HG D 5.2)
3 h weekly

Offered In

  • GESS Science in Perspective (Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "GESS Science in Perspective" courses. Further below you will find courses under the category "Type B courses Reflections about subject specific methods and content" as well as the language courses. During the Bachelor’s degree Students should acquire at least 6 ECTS and during the Master’s degree 2 ECTS. Students who already took a course within their main study program are NOT allowed to take the course again.)