Change and transformation in global politics

In this module you will examine the issue of transformation in international politics. You will discuss the origins of the westphalian system and the transformations in the state and global politics associated with capitalism, nationalism and revolution.

You will explore two different forms of political authority – empire and hegemony – ending with the emergence of american hegemony after world war two.

You will then focus on contemporary processes of transformation in three areas: the global economy, identity and cosmopolitanism, encompassing the emergence of human rights, humanitarian intervention and cosmopolitan democracy.