PSCI 227(S) Ethics and Interests in Foreign Policy

People often claim that we cannot or should not judge states' actions in moral terms. Some argue that such standards are irrelevant; others believe that any ethical standard would be unrealistic because the environment within which states operate is too uncertain to allow moral considerations. Yet discussing foreign policy in terms of duty, or justice, or right does not indicate that we are crazy. We judge foreign policies in terms of practicality and efficiency, but we also say that sanctions against Cuba are right or wrong, the Gulf War was just or unjust, Japan's export policies promote fair or unfair trade practices. We expect leaders to be honorable as well as cunning, to serve some public good even if its not one we ourselves would choose. This course examines ethical problems facing policy-makers and publics by focusing on a series of specific cases from the recent past, including the decision to use the atomic bomb, wartime propaganda, economic sanctions against Iraq, child labor, sex tourism, ecotourism, secrecy and espionage, religious fundamentalism, trade in toxic waste, etc. Requirements: three take-home exams each consisting of one or two essay questions; mandatory attendance and active participation in in-class exercises. No prerequisites. International Relations Subfield

Hour: SHANKS