INST 101(S) Geopolitics, Religion, and Oil: The Case of Iraq and Iran (Same as INTR 110 and Political Science 258)*
The United States' continuing and troubled attempt to remake the Persian Gulf region provides an occasion for critical reflection on the questions asked and tools available from the International Studies perspective for understanding other nations and regions. This course will examine aspects of the cultural, political, economic and technological dimensions of the nations of Iraq and Iran. The course will begin with a consideration of the history, religions, and societies of these two neighbors as well as the specific features of an oil rentier economy. The course will then turn to the recent experiences of these two nations in the international arena including strategies of sanctions, regime change and democratization prosecuted primarily by the United States. We will pay special attention to the assumptions about the role and character of the state, the character of civil society and the processes of economic and cultural globalization that lie behind these strategies.
Format: lecture/discussion. Evaluation will be based on two short papers and a final research paper.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 40 (expected: 40). Preference given to first year students and sophomores.
Hour:DARROW and MACDONALD
Not offered 2007-2008
INST 101 Asia and the World (Same as Asian Studies 201 and Political Science 100) *
Asia looms large in contemporary world politics: Japan is gradually assuming an expanded regional national security role; The People's Republic of China is emerging as a multifaceted Great Power; India is challenged by rising ethno-nationalism. This course will explore
both the historical background and current dynamics of political and economic issues in
these three countries, drawing on themes of imperialism, nationalism, and globalization. It is
an introductory class and, therefore, no prior coursework in political science or Asian studies
is necessary.
Format: predominately lecture. Requirements: two short papers and a final exam.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 60 (expected: 60).