GOVT386 - Political Geography and International Conflict

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Academic Year 2005/2006

Political Geography and International Conflict
GOVT 386 FA

All politics are embedded in geographical space. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the often under-appreciated role of geographyŋboth natural and constructedŋin historical and contemporary international conflicts (and in their aftermath). The course will begin with an introduction to the theories of geopolitics, economics, and the spatial distribution of territory that have (both explicitly and implicitly) informed both the strategic calculations and operational behavior of political and military leaders across the ages. Thereafter we will then move onto a deeper exploration of these concepts, by examining them through the lens of a variety of historical cases, from ancient Greece to modern day USA. In exploring the cases, we will utilize primary and secondary sources, as well as maps, charts, political cartoons, and an array of other historical documents and graphical resources.

MAJOR READINGS

TBA

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

There are two requirements for this class. The first is a research paper of approximately 25 pages. A great deal of latitude will be permitted vis-ā-vis the topic and format of the paper. Students will be asked to present their research projects to the rest of the class at some point during the term. The timing of this presentation will coincide with the presentation of the related topic(s) in class. Thus some students will likely present proposals of their projects early in the term, while others will present something more akin to their findings later in the term. In addition, all students should plan to meet with me individually in early October to discuss their proposed topic, as well as in mid-to-late November to discuss project progress. Th e second course requirement is attendance and active participation in the seminar. You are expected to do the readings, attend class, and actively contribute to the discussion; however, you will not be graded on the quantity of your participation, but rather on the quality of it. As part of class participation, students may also be called upon to lead class discussions and debates.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Prerequisite(s): GOVT155 or GOVT 157 and upper-division status; students will likely also find previous coursework in European, American, and/or world history helpful, if not strictly necessary.

COURSE FORMAT: Seminar

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

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

Prerequisites: GOVT155 OR GOVT157

SECTION 01

Instructor(s): Greenhill,Kelly M.

Times: .M..... 01:10PM-04:00PM; Location: JUDDB6;

Reserved Seats: (Total Limit: 15)

SR. major: 8 Jr. major: 7

SR. non-major: 0 Jr. non-major: 0 SO: X FR: X

Special Attributes:

Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-30-2006