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The aim of the module is to understand how great powers think and behave in the field of international relations – through the example of classical imperialism before the First World War. The participants of the module will simulate and analyse the way international relations work, using the board game Diplomacy and book chapters and papers by a number of eminent historians. We will also read original source documents in order to understand what the advocates and critics of imperialism thought at the time, and then discuss why the topic is still relevant today. In the seventh session, the different possible positions will be explored and debated through a role-play. At the end of the course, students will be required to write an editorial for the New York Times. By completing the module, students will learn about international relations and issues of imperialism and colonisation from a historical perspective. They will develop skills in critical thinking, the understanding of different viewpoints and narratives, negotiation and communication, debate and persuasion, and essay writing.
Module leader: Paksa Rudolf
