POL412H1S L0101
Human Rights and International Relations
Themes
This course offer students the opportunity to rethink Western-oriented methods of inquiry and theories, which in turn allows them to rethink dominant conceptions of knowledge and normativity in International Relations (IR) theories. Utilizing Critical Theory perspectives, the course aims to deconstruct the theoretical debates, and practices, taking place in the international human rights (HR) regime. It is organized in roughly three sections: Part I introduces the ontology and epistemology of “International” Relations research. Part II interrogates the main theoretical issues and debates around IR/HR. Part III focuses on the economic, political, and social implications of IR/HR policies in the “Third world” and the alternatives to the dominant theories. The seminar will be driven by student participation and discussion. Emphasis during the seminar will be on critical interpretation of assigned readings through the active participation of students in classroom dialogue and debate. Useful participation will be informed by knowledge of the readings and a willingness to share doubts as well as certainties.
Texts
Assigned Chapters will be made available on (Blackboard) and course reserve (Robarts Library). Assigned articles are available online, through the library catalogue system, as well as on Blackboard
Format and Requirements
Course evaluation will include weekly critical summary reports, a research proposal, research paper, presentations, and active, informed class participation in class discussions.
Prerequisites
POL201H1 or POL201Y1 or POL208H1 or POL208Y1 or POL209H5 or POLB80H3 or POLB90H3 or POLB91H3