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Academic Year 2004/2005

The Causes of Modern War
GOVT 330 SP

The course is a review of the main theories of the causes of war. The list includes the security dilemma, the power transition theory, diversionary war theory, deterrence theory, theories focusing on economic causes, on regime type, etc. These theories will be put in the context of some of the major wars (and one non-war): WWI, WWII, the Cold War, the Winter War, the Six Day War of the last century.

MAJOR READINGS

Kenneth Waltz, THEORY OF INTERNATIONAL POLITICS
Robert Jervis, "Cooperation under the Security Dilemma"
Paul Kennedy, RISE AND FALL OF THE GREAT POWERS
James Fearon, "Rationalist Explanations for War"
Jack Levy, "The Diversionary Theory of War"

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

One 5-7 page paper critically examining a an assigned article or book, and a 20 page research paper.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Gov 115 is a prerequisite for this course.

COURSE FORMAT: Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS GOVT    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: GOVT155 OR GOVT311 OR GOVT388 Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-21-2005

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