Description
PSC161: Introduction to International Relations
Writing Assignment (50 points)
Answer both parts below and submit by 11.59 pm on Friday, December 13 in myCourses. Answers should be approximately 750-1000 word in length.
Part 1: Detail a current (or recent) event of international importance and explain its significance in terms of international relations.
Part 2: Analyze this event using each of the three main IR paradigms (realism, liberalism and constructivism) and suggest the different policy actions that each would recommend.
Compulsory Elements:
Identification of key actors (e.g. state, national governments)
Acknowledgement of different levels of analysis (systemic, domestic, individual)
5+ credible sources (e.g. New York Times, the Economist, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy)
Inclusion of readings in Topic 2 on myCourses (e.g. “International Relations: One World, Many Theories” by Stephen Walt)
Correct and consistent citations (any style as long as consistent e.g. APSA, MLA)
PSC 161 Writing Assignment Template
- Event Introduction:
Include background information and demonstrate your knowledge of the event
1.1. Event’s relevance to international relations:
Explain why the event is relevant to international relations
1.2. Identification of event’s key actors:
Identify the principal actors (e.g. states, leaders, NGOs) involved in the event.
1.3 Analyze using different levels of analysis:
Explain how each level of analysis (systemic, domestic and individual) affects our understanding of the event.
- Analyze using the three paradigms:
2.1. Realism
Explain how the realist perspective would inform our understanding of the event and the policy options to consider.
2.2. Liberalism
Explain how the liberal perspective would inform our understanding of the event and the policy options to consider.
2.3. Constructivism
Explain how the constructivist perspective would inform our understanding of the event and the policy options to consider.
Sample Solution
