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INR251Social Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Evolution Of Modern International System

This course provides a detailed understanding of the international system, its structures, and evolution from classical to contemporary periods. It explores key concepts such as the balance of power, anarchy, and the role of state and non-state actors. The course examines the realist and idealist approaches, major historical events, and contemporary issues like globalization, collective security, and terrorism. Students will analyze the behavior of nations and interpret relationships among them, developing critical insights into international politics.

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208h
Study Time
13
Weeks
16h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
International SystemRealismIdealismGlobalizationTerrorism

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Definition of International System

2

Realist Approach

3

Idealist Approach

4

Evolution of International System

5

Characteristics of International System

6

Globalization

7

Collective Security

8

Terrorism

Total Topics8 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Tutor-Marked Assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Diplomat

Apply your skills in this growing field

International Relations Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Policy Advisor

Apply your skills in this growing field

Intelligence Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Journalist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

GovernmentInternational OrganizationsNon-Governmental OrganizationsThink TanksMedia

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Understanding the International System

2h

Unit 1: The Definition of the International System

2 study hours
  • •Read the course guide to understand the course objectives and assessment criteria.
  • •Study the definition of the international system and its components.
  • •Identify the key scholars who contributed to the concept of the international system.
Week
2

Module 1: Understanding the International System

2h

Unit 2: The Realist Approach in Understanding the International System

2 study hours
  • •Examine the realist approach and its core assumptions about state behavior.
  • •Discuss the role of power and self-interest in international relations.
  • •Analyze the views of classical and neorealist thinkers.
Week
3

Module 1: Understanding the International System

2h

Unit 3: The Idealist Approach in Understanding the International System

2 study hours
  • •Study the idealist approach and its emphasis on cooperation and international institutions.
  • •Discuss the role of morality and international law in promoting peace.
  • •Compare and contrast liberal idealism, neoliberal idealism, and neoconservatism.
Week
4

Module 1: Understanding the International System

2h

Unit 4: The Idealist versus the Realist Approaches in Understanding the International System

2 study hours
  • •Analyze the key arguments in the debate between realists and idealists.
  • •Examine the historical context of the debate and its relevance to contemporary issues.
  • •Prepare TMA 1 for submission.
Week
5

Module 2: Evolution of the Modern International System

2h

Unit 1: The Classical International System (1648-1789)

2 study hours
  • •Study the characteristics of the classical international system.
  • •Examine the Peace of Westphalia and its impact on the state system.
  • •Discuss the distribution of power and wealth among nation-states.
Week
6

Module 2: Evolution of the Modern International System

2h

Unit 2: The Transitional International System (1789-1945)

2 study hours
  • •Examine the emergence of the transitional international system.
  • •Discuss the impact of the French Revolution and nationalism.
  • •Analyze the actors, distribution of power, and interdependence in the system.
Week
7

Module 2: Evolution of the Modern International System

2h

Unit 3: The Post World War II International System (1945-1989)

2 study hours
  • •Study the distinctive features of the post-World War II international system.
  • •Examine the roles of superpowers and bipolarity.
  • •Discuss the nonalignment movement and its impact.
Week
8

Module 2: Evolution of the Modern International System

2h

Unit 4: The Contemporary International System (1989-Date)

2 study hours
  • •Study the factors leading to the collapse of the postwar system.
  • •Examine the fissures in bipolarity and alliances.
  • •Prepare TMA 2 for submission.
Week
9

Module 3: Characteristics of International System

2h

Unit 1: The Actors in the International System

2 study hours
  • •Identify and discuss the state and non-state actors in the international system.
  • •Explain how states work in the international system.
  • •Examine the roles of IGOs, NGOs, and MNCs.
Week
10

Module 3: Characteristics of International System

2h

Unit 2: Anarchy in the International System

2 study hours
  • •Define anarchy and its implications for the international system.
  • •Discuss the realist and liberal perspectives on anarchy.
  • •Analyze how anarchy shapes state behavior and international relations.
Week
11

Module 3: Characteristics of International System

2h

Unit 3: Interest and the Use of Power in the International System

2 study hours
  • •Define national interest and its role in international politics.
  • •Discuss the relationship between national interest and power.
  • •Analyze the attributes of power in the international system.
Week
12

Module 3: Characteristics of International System

2h

Unit 4: Polarity in the International System

2 study hours
  • •Define polarity and its different forms (multipolar, bipolar, unipolar).
  • •Discuss the characteristics of each type of polarity.
  • •Analyze the implications of polarity for international stability and conflict.
  • •Prepare TMA 3 for submission.
Week
13

Module 4: Issues in the Contemporary International System

4h

Unit 1: The Impact of Globalisation

2 study hours
  • •Define globalization and its major aspects (economic, health, environmental, workforce).
  • •Discuss the impact of globalization on the international system.
  • •Analyze the critiques of globalization and its effects on developing nations.

Unit 2: Collective Security

2 study hours
  • •Define collective security and its major assumptions.
  • •Discuss the evolution of collective security in the international system.
  • •Analyze the relevance and challenges of collective security in promoting world peace.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create a timeline of key events from the classical to the contemporary international system (Units 5-8).

2

Develop concept maps linking realist and idealist perspectives on international relations (Units 2-4).

3

Practice essay questions on the impact of globalization and terrorism on the international system (Units 15-16).

4

Review definitions of key terms like anarchy, polarity, and national interest (Units 1, 11-12).

5

Focus on understanding the roles and functions of international organizations like the UN and NATO (Units 14).

6

Prepare summaries comparing and contrasting the different types of international systems (Units 5-8).

7

Review all TMAs and SAEs

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