Political Science: State, Power, Conflict (PPE)

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/W_JSM_104

Course Objective

At the end of the course, students should be able to:
• Outline key issues from two major subfields of political science: comparative politics and international relations.
• Define key concepts of political science and use them in a consistent and rigorous manner.
• Recognize and use a selection of key theories in political science and the way in which they offer competing explanations of political events.
• Analyze political issues in a well-informed and structured manner.
• Possess a more developed understanding of modern-day democratic politics.

Course Content

Political science examines the ways in which conflicts between interests and values are resolved. This course offers an introduction to political science, covering both domestic politics and international politics. It follows a thematic structure. It starts with an analysis of key concepts in political science, such as the state, democracy and power. Next, it investigates key institutions and organizations in domestic politics, including constitutions, elections, governments, political parties and interest groups. The last part explores topics in international relations, such as warfare, regional integration and systemic polarity. Throughout the course, students are introduced to several principles of political science research, especially as it pertains to conceptualization and theory building.

Teaching Methods

Lectures and active learning groups.

Method of Assessment

Mix of exam, an assignment and in-class exercises.

Literature

A selection of book chapters and journal articles.

Target Audience

First-year PPE students.

Additional Information

Please note that participation in the seminars is mandatory.