This module has been designed to introduce students to a number of case studies of conflict, and encourages them to develop a detailed understanding of the history, dynamics, and post-conflict challenges of each individual case. It seeks to further develop students understanding of the principal theories in IR, related concepts in the analysis and resolution of conflict, and to hone student’s ability to critically apply different perspectives to contemporary cases of conflict.
This module offers students the insight needed to analyse conflict in terms of theory, research and practice. Alternative theories, arguments, concepts and assumptions are covered regarding what drives a conflict, with a view to both gaining a more nuanced understanding of how to study conflict through case studies, as well as introducing students to the necessary tools required to conduct an independent piece of research.
Focused upon the use of case studies, through this course students will delve deeper into the analysis of specific conflicts. This course provides students with some of the analytical skills needed to understand how conflicts develop and escalate, how we can compare them and create conceptions in order to make sense of them, how to identify factors that can lead to or sustain violence, and to map root causes as well as path dependencies of conflicts (e.g., human rights violations, needs deprivation, cultural and religious differences, inequality, resource misuse and environmental degradation) at interpersonal, intergroup, and international levels.
The engagement with such topics will then provide the basis for each student to engage in a detailed analysis of a particular case study of their choice. These may include contemporary cases such as Israel-Palestine, Ukraine-Russia, Hong Kong, Syria, Iraq, Taiwan, Yemen, Afghanistan, Cyprus, Sudan, East Timor, the Sprately Islands, Korea or Kashmir. Other cases may be negotiated with the course convenor and may include historical conflicts revolving around diverse sets of issues.
This module offers students the insight needed to analyse conflict in terms of theory, research and practice. Alternative theories, arguments, concepts and assumptions are covered regarding what drives a conflict, with a view to both gaining a more nuanced understanding of how to study conflict through case studies, as well as introducing students to the necessary tools required to conduct an independent piece of research.
Focused upon the use of case studies, through this course students will delve deeper into the analysis of specific conflicts. This course provides students with some of the analytical skills needed to understand how conflicts develop and escalate, how we can compare them and create conceptions in order to make sense of them, how to identify factors that can lead to or sustain violence, and to map root causes as well as path dependencies of conflicts (e.g., human rights violations, needs deprivation, cultural and religious differences, inequality, resource misuse and environmental degradation) at interpersonal, intergroup, and international levels.
The engagement with such topics will then provide the basis for each student to engage in a detailed analysis of a particular case study of their choice. These may include contemporary cases such as Israel-Palestine, Ukraine-Russia, Hong Kong, Syria, Iraq, Taiwan, Yemen, Afghanistan, Cyprus, Sudan, East Timor, the Sprately Islands, Korea or Kashmir. Other cases may be negotiated with the course convenor and may include historical conflicts revolving around diverse sets of issues.
Course Type: 2022-2023 Modules
Shared Course: No
Feeder Course: No