Since the time of Thucydides, world politics has always been a story of several great powers competing for power, wealth, and security. The collapse and dissolution of the Soviet Union, however, left the United States in a position of dominance that has no parallel in history. This course examines how international relations theorists and American policymakers have grappled with the dilemmas and opportunities of global hegemony since 1989, with a particular focus on the challenges that have emerged in the aftermath of September 11. Will other powers, such as China or a united Europe, inevitably challenge American dominance? Should America actively seek to promote its ideas and values throughout the world? Does a hegemon have unique and special responsibilities for advancing international justice? What kind of grand strategy should the United States pursue, both now and in the future? Why does so much of the world seem to resent American hegemony? Format: seminar. Requirements: course assignments will include weekly papers and a 25- to 30-page research paper. Prerequisites: two courses in international relations. Course enrollment strictly limited to senior political science majors. Permission of the instructor is required for this course. Enrollment limit:16 (expected: 16). International Relations Subfield.