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853-0048-00L 4 Credits BSC D-GESS
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International Politics: Theory and Methods (with Tutorat)

Internationale Politik: Theorie und Analysemethoden (mit Tutorat)

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

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:38:04

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. The lectures are accompanied by a tutorial with case studies.

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. Environmental cooperation: ozone depletion and climate change 13. Legitimacy and democracy in global governance

Resources

Lecture Notes

Schimmelfennig, Frank: Internationale Politik. Paderborn: Schöningh Verlag, 6. Auflage, 2021.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
Zwei doppelseitig oder vier einseitig handschriftlich beschriebene A4-Blätter. Ein Wörterbuch Deutsch - Französisch oder Deutsch - Italienisch.
Die Noten der drei Zwischenprüfungen aus den Semesterkursen (zwei aus HS, eine aus FS) werden anteilmässig (je 5%) an die Basisprüfung angerechnet, wenn sie über der Note für die Basisprüfung liegen.

Registration & Places

Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Internationale Politik: Theorie und Analysemethoden
  • Mon 09:15-12:00 (HG D 5.2)
3 h weekly
exercise Internationale Politik: Theorie und Analysemethoden Tutorat No time listed 1 h weekly

Offered In