A90082 Introduction to International Relations

Today is particularly important  the comprehension  of most significant  political, social, military and  economic international realities, above all for  international business students or who will work in international organizations.

During the course they will learn the historical phases whom led to current world and, by means of some study cases, the methodology for a correct valuation of a event.

The course is, obviously, for foreign and Italian students.

A deeper knowledge of current international scenario  and of most historical events who produced the current international system.

Skill in searching the deep causes of political, economic, military current events.

At the end of the course the student will be able to understand  and evaluate the different domestic policies  existing among countries,    as well as the economic, social and military situations of the present word.

To perform in a group by demonstrating leadership.

To be a good economist  (especially if your future work  will be in International Organizations, Human Resources, Diplomacy),  an important added value with respect to your competitors is a good knowledge of international society and  the reason for which a country today  is as we see it,  a good knowledge of psychological factors  (the real engine of every human decision), of traditions of each population which deeply influence their choices, behaviour, quality of life. Having this information, understanding the real causes of political ed economic decisions will be useful when you have  a career development and more responsibility.

Content: the analysis of political and economic decisional mechanisms, particularly their psychological aspects;  the role of parties; of the ruling class and its qualities and capabilities; financial  and commercial capacities of countries;  social and psychological conditions of populations; public opinion, pressure groups; military capabilities. Understanding the differences between <<symptoms and causes>> and their relevance in international analysis.

The European political, historical and economic situation at the beginning of the 20^th century. The deep causes of the First World War: psychological, politics, economics and military aspects. American isolationalistic tradition  and causes of its involvement in the War.  President Wilson's psychology.  The peace treaties and their economic and political consequences.  The economic interdependence between the nations. The myth of permanent prosperity. Causes of the Great Depression of 1929.  Political, military and economic  decisions in Japan, Italy, Germany to solve their economic crisis. Towards the Second World War. The real origin of the Cold War.  Current World: 1) The new Russia – 2) ) What can we learn from the current crisis between Russia and Ukraine  – 3)  Neuro-economy and its future influence.

The course will require active students’  involvement. It is necessary for the students to keep up to date on the most important international matters through internet. E-mails may be sent out by the instructor to the students to direct their attention to the most important international affairs.

The course requires your attendance.

During the course tests in classroom  to evaluate the learning.   If they are overall adequate no final examination. Otherwise will be necessary a final written examination.