A90082 Introduction to International Relations

To be a good economist is especially  important also  the real understanding  of most international political, social, military events.

During the course you will learn the historical phases  that have led to the present world and the methodology for a correct evaluation of an event.

An important added value with respect to your competitors is a good knowledge of the international reality,  the reason for which a country today  is as we see it,  the knowledge of psychological factors and  their influence on political and economic  choices and on the quality of life of a country. Understanding the real causes of political and economic decisions will be useful when you have  a career development and more responsibility.

A deeper knowledge of the  international scenario  and main historical events that have led  to the current international system.

- Analysis of political and economic decisional mechanisms, particularly the relevance  of psychological aspects, role of parties and ruling class, social and psychological conditions of populations, public opinion, pressure groups, military capabilities. Understanding the differences between 'symptoms and causes' of a event 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: politics, economics, psychological and military aspects. American isolationist tradition. The deep causes of  American involvement in the First World  War.  The importance of President Wilson in American foreign policy.   The Peace Treaties and their economic and political consequences for Europe.  The myth of permanent prosperity and the economic  crisis of 1929.  Political, military and economic  consequences of the crisis of 1929. Decisions of Japan, Italy and Germany to solve their economic crisis. Towards the Second World War.  The origins of the Cold War. 

Current World:   1)Analysis of  Brexit: the British psychology and its influence in political decisions – 2) From the Soviet Union to the current Russia  – 3)  The current crisis between Russia and Ukraine:  to understand the deep causes and the mentality of President Putin – 4)The international political, economic and military consequences of the end of the Cold War  – 5) The case study of the last presidential elections: the predictable defeat of  Hillary Clinton. Analysis of political and social aspects of the United States.  – 6) Young Muslims and Isis: the deep reasons for their involvement  – 7) Iran: can we consider exceeded its nuclear threat?   The Presidency of Rouhani. 

The course will require active students’  involvement. It is necessary to keep up to date on the most important international matters through internet, newspapers, tv,  and so on

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 on a subject of the syllabus.