Politics and International Studies Courses

IS 100

Introduction to International Studies

This interdisciplinary course introduces students to a range of global issues, including the basics of world geography, history, political and economic systems, and culture. The strong cross-cultural perspective of the course provides students with the necessary foundation to specialize in their own area of interest within the international studies program. *Note: Formerly numbered INTL 100. Students may receive credit for one of INTL 100 or IS 100. *

IS 200

Feeding the World and Cooling the Planet

Who decides who eats? Who decides what food is produced? Is the dominant food production model 'efficient'? This course examines the root causes of hunger and recurring global food crises, analyzes how being 'stuffed' or 'starved' is connected, and explores how food sovereignty helps 'feed the world and cool the planet'.
***Prerequisites: IS 100 or 15 credit hours***

IS 210

Introduction to Asian Studies

Asian studies will be introduced with respect to a variety of countries and the following themes: Orientalism; Imperialism/Colonialism; Neo-liberalism and Globalization; Tradition versus Modernity; Agriculture; Population; Resources and Environment; Religion; Political System and Visual Culture.
*** Prerequisite: Completion of 15 credit hours. *** * Note: Formerly numbered ASIA 200. Students may receive credit for one of ASIA 200 or IS 210.

IS 220

International Development and Poverty

This is an introduction to international development. Mainstream development is geared to 'attacking poverty' through various models of development: modernization, industrialization and urbanization, globalization, and good governance. Alternative models of development argue that these actually spread inequality and impoverishment. Can development be done right? Does development have a future?

*** Prerequisites: IS 100 ***

IS 230

Introduction to European Studies

An interdisciplinary introduction to the principal historic and emerging contemporary features of Europe. The course will explore the defining yet very diverse characteristics of social, intellectual, political, economic and cultural life and will examine the motivation for and impact of integration on European Union member states.
*** Prerequisite: Completion of 15 credit hours. *** *Note: Formerly numbered ES 200. Students may receive credit for one of ES 200 or IS 230. *

IS 240

Contemporary Issues in International Affairs

This course examines selected global issues through a problem-based learning approach. Students will work in teams to simulate global conferences on selected transnational issues such as United Nations reform, international justice, conflict resolution, terror and security, or the environment.

***Prerequisites: IS 100***

IS 290AA

Local Lives in a Global Political Economy

An introduction to economic and political geography, emphasizing the development of the global economy as it plays out in local places with particular politics, histories and cultures. The course will focus on the crisis of Fordism and the restructuring of different sectors of the economy (eg resources, services and finance).

IS 290AB

Indigenous Peoples in Global Context

This course will examine the political, social, and cultural backgrounds of diverse Indigenous peoples around the globe. It will explore patterns and themes of Indigenous history and the impacts of colonization and settlement. Treaty-making, diplomacy, decolonization, and contemporary global Indigenous movements will be areas of particular focus.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 or permission of Department Head***

IS 300

Globalization: Its Dynamics and Consequences

The course focuses on the driving forces and consequences of globalization. First, it seeks to bring clarity to the idea of globalization by engaging with major arguments. Second, it analyzes the distinct processes of globalization. Third, it explores how globalizing dynamics are linked to the local, national and regional transformations.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***
*Note: Formerly numbered INTL 300. Students may only receive credit for one of INTL 300, IS 300, and PSCI 390AH.*

IS 301

Global Governance: International Organizations

The course studies the role of international organizations in contemporary global governance. It examines the functions of global and regional organizations in major issue areas, including peace and security, international economic relations, development, human rights and the environment. It investigates the effectiveness, legitimacy and accountability of the exiting system of global governance.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***
*Note: this course is cross-listed with PSCI 342. Students may receive credit for only one of IS 301 or PSCI 342.*

IS 302

Non-Governmenal Organizations Crossing Borders

Do non-governmental organizations make a difference? How do they interact with and alter the international state system? This course examines the activities and influence of transnational non-governmental organizations such as global struggles against colonialism and slavery; and campaigns for human rights, women's rights, indigenous rights and banning land mines.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***

IS 303

Social Movements and Alternatives to Global Capital

What are social movements? What alternatives do they propose? What are the links between land takeovers in Brazil, anti-dam protests in India, resistance to mining and transnational movements? Can social movements make a difference? This course explores the power of collective action by examining how social movements challenge mainstream development.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***
*Note: Formerly numbered IS 320. Students may receive credit for only one of IS 303 or IS 320*

IS 390AB

Globalization and Human Rights

This course investigates global economic, social and political relations from the perspective of human rights. It focuses on current issues in international human rights, including the recent struggles for new rights, threats from security regimes, corporate power, and growing international inequalities.
*** Prerequisites: INTL 100 and completion of 30 credit hours, or with the permission of International Studies Program Coordinator. ***

* Note: Students cannot receive credits for both IS 390AB and HJ 380AJ. *

IS 390AE

Global and Local Environmental Struggles

This course examines key current global environmental issues and debates such as struggles over the production and disposal of toxic waste; the promises and limitations of the green economy; climate justice; global land grabbing; sustainable use of forests, water and land resources; global environmental agreements; and efforts to reclaim the global commons.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (or INTL 100) and 30 credit hours***

IS 390AF

Global and Local Mining

This course examines the environmental, political, and social justice aspects of minig and resource extraction in various countries. How does extraction shape local communities and environments? How have indigenous claims and resistance influenced corporate and government strategies and vice versa? Is resource wealth a blessing or a curse?
*** Pre-requisites: IS 100 or Geog 100 or Geog 120 and 30 credit hours ***

IS 390AG

Pacific Perspectives: The History of Canada's Relations with Asia

This course explores the history of Canada's relations with the Asia Pacific region, from early ties involving missionaries, immigration and trade to more recent concerns regarding human rights and development. Prerequisite: IS 100 or completion of 30 credit hours.

IS 390AH

International Human Rights

This course investigates evolution of international human rights and global and regional institutions that protect human rights such as the UN. It examines the international bodies that have judicial powers over human rights crimes and the challenges they face. Those bodies include the International Criminal Court and ad hoc tribunals.
***Prequisite: IS 100 and completion of 30 credit hours or permission of the International Studies Program Co-ordinator***

IS 390AI

International organizations and NGOs: Conflict and cooperation I

The course prepares students for a study tour to New York and Washington DC to investigate the causes and consequences of the growing engagement of international organizations with NGOs. To receive credits, students are required to complete both IS 390AI and IS 390AJ.
**Permission of the Instructor is required to register**

IS 390AJ

International organizations and NGOs: Conflict and Cooperation II

A study tour to New York and Washington DC to investigate the causes and consequences of the growing engagement of international organizations with NGOs. It includes visits to the UN, IMF, World Bank and NGOs. To receive credits, students are required to complete both IS 390AI and IS 390AJ.
**Permission of the Instructor is required to register**

IS 390AK

Global Indigenous Peoples

This course examines the political,social and cultural backgrounds of Indigenous peoples around the globe, indigenous histories, treaty-making, diplomacy, as well as decolonization movements and contemporary challenges will be central. Students will examine efforts to create linkages between Indigenous peoples globally to secure self-determination and articulate Indigenous rights.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***

IS 390AL

Indigenous Human Rights

Current developments at the international level with respect to rights of Indigenous peoples, particularly at the level of the United Nations is the focus. It reviews the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous peoples (UNDRIP) with special attention to issues of violence against women, child removal and environmental degradation.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***

IS 390AM

History of the Mexico-US Border

How has the US-Mexico border region changed over time? What role has violence played? This course explores these questions in the context of the US-Mexico relationship. Topics covered include nation and identity formation, the Mexican-American War, the Mexican Revolution, transnational wealth disparity, migration, NAFTA, and the Trump Presidency.

*** Prerequisite: IS 100 or 30 credit hours ***

IS 390AN

Pop Culture and International Politics

What can we learn about international politics from popular culture? Popular culture presents the possibilities of politics that are not abstracted from of everyday life and experience. This course draws the popular culture to explore the nature, limits, and possibilities of contemporary international politics ***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***

IS 390AO

Democracy and Authoritarianism in Contemporary Latin America

This course discusses the historical construction of Latin American political regimes, such as oligarchy, populism, and dictatorships; likewise processes of transition to democracy. It will approach individual country cases and regional trends, as well as relations between Latin American nations and foreign powers.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***

IS 390AP

Canadian Foreign Policy and Development Assistance

How does Canada participate in the world through international development? This course explores official development assistance as an element of Canadian foreign policy. Particular attention is paid to long-term policy shifts and to the influence of civil society and the private sector on development policy.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 (formerly INTL 100) or 30 credit hours***
*Note: Students may only receive credit for one of IS 390AP or PSCI 390BD.*

IS 390CH

Jilin Study Abroad

This study abroad course takes place at Jilin University, Changchun, China in the School of International and Public Affairs. Students take special courses by Jilin faculty in English on Public Diplomacy and on Chinese Diplomacy, plus a course on Chinese Culture and Language over four weeks. There are also field trips to Beijing and Changchun. This course is intended for a group of approximately 10-15 UofR students to travel together to China.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 or completion of 30 credit hours.***
**Corequisite: IS 390CI.**
*Note: This course is offered on a Pass/Fail basis.*

IS 390CI

Jilin Study Abroad

This study abroad course takes place at Jilin University, Changchun, China in the School of International and Public Affairs. Students take special courses by Jilin faculty in English on Public Diplomacy and on Chinese Diplomacy, plus a course on Chinese Culture and Language over four weeks. There are also field trips to Beijing and Changchun. This course is intended for a group of approximately 10-15 UofR students to travel together to China.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 or completion of 30 credit hours.***
**Corequisite: IS 390CH.**
*Note: This course is offered on a Pass/Fail basis.*

IS 390DC

United States Presidential Inauguration

This course, to take place in Washington, D.C. under the auspices of the Washington Center, involves readings, discussions, written assignments, lectures and seminars pertaining to the inauguration of the President of the United States, on January 21, 2012. Students will witness the inauguration and participate in the events surrounding it.
***Pre-requisite: One IS course or completion of 30 credit hours.***

IS 390GT

Mega-Development & Alternatives

In 9 days travelling across Guatemala, we will witness two visions of 'development'--mega-development by extractive industries, and alternative development by Maya and Xinca Indigenous community groups. Site visits include a Canadian mine site, an agro-fuel plantation, communities in resistance to these, and a social movement organization practicing alternative agriculture.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 or minimum 30 credit hours and permission of the instructors***
*Additional Fee: $2000.*

IS 391

Internships in International Studies

Internships that will contribute to students' learning and experience in the area of International Studies.
*** Prerequisite: Permission of the Coordinator of the International Studies Program ***

IS 400

Capstone International Studies Seminar

This interdisciplinary seminar will examine key selected international contemporary issues that integrate area studies or international relations concentrations, from the perspective of globalization and its link to human development. The seminar will put emphasis on the development and presentation of an integrative paper by each participant with critiques from each other being a key component.
***Prerequisite: One of IS 300 (formerly INTL 300), 301, 302 or 303 and 60 credit hours, or permission of the department head***
*Note: Formerly numbered INTL 400. Students may receive credit for one of INTL 400 or IS 400*

IS 410

Advanced Topics in Asian Studies

This seminar course examines political, historical, economic and cultural developments throughout Asia from a transnational and interdisciplinary perspective. Students will discuss and carry out research integrating insights from Asian studies, as well as considering Asian interactions with the rest of the world. ***Prerequisite: IS 210 (formerly ASIA 200) and 60 credit hours, or permission of the department head***
*Note: Formerly numbered ASIA 400. Students may receive credit for only one of ASIA 400 or IS 410*

IS 420

Advanced Topics in International Development

This seminar course examines critical perspectives of international development. Topics include, among others, strategies to alleviate poverty, population growth and scarcity, urbanization, land rights, microfinance, displacement and development refugees, environmental sustainability, and the role of civil society in development.
***Prerequisite: IS 220 and 60 credit hours, or permission of the department head***
*Note: Formerly numbered DEVS 400. Students may receive credit for one of DEVS 400 or IS 420*

IS 430

Advanced Topics in European Studies

This seminar course consolidates an understanding of the essential characteristics of contemporary and emergent cultural, economic and political life in Europe. In particular, the character and impact of European integration on historically differentiated member states will be considered. The significance of European contributions to the world community will also be examined.
***Prerequisite: IS 230 (formerly ES 200) and 60 credit hours, or permission of the department head.***
*Note: Formerly numbered ES 400. Students may receive credit for one of ES 400 or IS 430*

IS 440

Advanced Topics In International Affairs

This seminar course studies major contemporary issues in international affairs within the framework of main relevant theories. The objective is to develop a good understanding of how the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of international issues are interrelated.
***Prerequisite: IS 240 and 60 credit hours, or permission of the department head***
*Note: Formerly numbered INAF 400. Students may receive credit for one of INAF 400 or IS 440*

IS 490AD

Foundations of Human Rights

Examines the historical, political, and legal development of human rights and how gender, class, and various aspects of personal and collective identity affect our understanding and realization of human rights. Emphasizes the interrelationships of civil and political rights with social and economic rights. Includes supplemental readings and adapted assignments for 400-level workload.

IS 490AE

Topics: Africa Through Film

This course explores issues of political, economic and social development through the medium of film, focusing on Africa. The themes covered in film screenings and class discussions will include colonialism and imperialism; poverty, inequality and marginalization; urbanization and alienation; and racial and gender inequalities. ***Prerequisites: One of IS 200, IS 220, IS 300, or IS 303 and completion of 60 credit hours, or permission of the International Studies Program Co-ordinator.***

IS 490AF

Advanced Readings in Latin American Politics and Society

This course explores important themes in contemporary Latin American politics and society. The assigned texts explore tensions between governments, civil society, and global capitalism; the continued role of imperialism in the region; organized state and non-state violence; and current forms of social movement and community organizing.

IS 490AG

Rebel groups and Machine-Learning: research of conflict videos related to civil war

The premise of this course is that studying the forces shaping armed group structures and evolution are critical to identifying patterns of organized armed violence, whether related to intra-state conflict or urban violence. It approaches armed groups as adaptive, self-sustaining multinational entities that survive despite formidable political and military pressure.

IS 490AH

Insurgencies the 21st Century: Social Media, Alliances, and Complexity

This course provides students with an overview of the theoretical and policy debates regarding armed conflict in the 21st Century, with a focus on non-international conflicts. Examples of the kinds of topics we will discuss include explanations for the causes of insurgency and success in counterinsurgency.

IS 498

Honours Paper in International Studies l

Students work towards an Honours Paper in their area of concentration under the supervision of a faculty member. Students must submit a proposal at the end of the semester.
*** Permission of the Coordinator of the International Studies Program is required to register. ***

IS 499

Honours Paper in International Studies ll

Students write an Honours Paper under the supervision of a faculty member. Students must submit an extensive research paper based on their proposal in IS 498.
*** Prerequisite: IS 498 with a minimum grade of 75% ***

PSCI 100

People, Power and Politics: An Introduction

An introduction to the issues, concepts and institutions of contemporary politics in both Canadian and international contexts, inviting critical thinking on subjects such as power, citizenship, democracy, diversity, feminism and colonialism. It links these topics to current world political events and issues. The objectives of the course are to introduce concepts and approaches in political studies; and to cultivate civic education.

PSCI 210

Introduction to Political Thought

This course introduces students to the works of some of the major figures in the history of political thought. Central issues such as justice, political authority, freedom, equality, sovereignty and democratic legitimacy will be explored in the ideas of some of the major figures in the history of political theory from ancient to modern times.
***Prerequisite: PSCI 100.***

PSCI 220

Comparing Political Systems

Comparative Politics studies the politics of countries around the world. This course introduces students to comparative analysis. Questions that might be covered are: how and why do we use comparative analysis? Why do economies develop at different rates? Under what conditions are policies more/less likely to be adopted? What explains the success and failure of rights revolutions? What explains the difference in institutional design across democracies? When does collective action succeed, when does it fail?
***Prerequisite: PSCI 100.***

PSCI 230

Power and Politics in Canada

Emphasis is placed on national institutions and events. An examination of the institutions and events that shape national politics in Canada, how power is exercised and political decisions are made.
***Prerequisite: PSCI 100.***

PSCI 240

World Politics

A comprehensive introduction to international politics. This course is designed to help students establish a basic understanding of the history of war and peace, international relations theory, human security, international political economy, international law, and international organizations.
***Prerequisite: IS 100 or PSCI 100***

PSCI 310

Ancient Political Thought

This course examines the political philosophies of Plato and Aristotle. It explores questions of justice, rhetoric/political speech, the Greek concept of the good life, and considers ancient theories of virtue and the best political order for human beings. It may also include readings from the Pre-Socratics, Herodotus, Thucydides, Plutarch and others.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours, or permission from the Department Head.***

PSCI 311

Early Modern Political Theory

An examination of the ideas of major figures in early modern political thought such as Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau with a view to exploring the differences between ancient and modern political thought, and the origin of the modern idea of the state, conceptions of the individual, and the nature of community.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 311 or PSCI 214.*

PSCI 321

American Politics

This class explores the institutional and conceptual framework of democracy in America. We examine the theoretical foundations of the American political system and the major institutions of American government, including Congress, the Presidency, and the Supreme Court. We also study civil rights, political participation, and presidential elections.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 323

Chinese Politics

This course focuses on modern Chinese politics, especially the post-Mao transition from revolution to reform. It introduces students to different approaches to the study of Chinese politics. In addition to the general overview of China's political traditions, revolution, and political institutions, some specific topics will also be examined.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 326

Asian Politics

An examination of selected political systems in Asia; in addition to studying political structures and institutions, the course will focus on the connections between domestic policies and international relations.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours, or permission from the department Head.***

PSCI 331

Divided Loyalties: Canada as a Federal State

This course examines the political, legal and economic dynamics that shape federalism and intergovernmental relations in Canada. It pays particular attention to how regional, provincial, linguistic and racial identities shaped and continue to shape Canadian politics.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for only one of HIST 301 or PSCI 331.*

PSCI 334

Canadian Politics and the Charter of Rights

This course will examine the influence of the Charter of Rights on political issues and social change in Canada. Emphasis will be on civil liberties, group rights and political and socio-economic conflict, and the evolving roles of party politics, the judiciary, and extra-Parliamentary politics.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 336

Canadian Political Economy: Capitalism, Politics and the State

Examines both the evolution of the Canadian economy and the development of Canadian political economy as a field of study. Particular attention is paid to the role of capital, labour and the state in the creation of contemporary Canadian capitalism and how they shaped past and present political debates.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 337

Gender in Canadian Politics

An introduction to the role that gender has played in the evolution of Canadian political life including the rise of feminist political movements, gender’s role in partisan politics and how expansive notions of gender diversity continue to reshape aspects of Canadian political life.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 338

Indigenous People and Politics

This course considers the relationship between indigenous peoples and the Canadian state. Questions of the nature of colonialism, capitalism, citizenship and identity are raised.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 340

International Law

An introduction to the basic foundations of International Law including its sources, history, scope and key institutions.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 341

Canadian Foreign Policy

A critical examination of the development of Canada’s foreign policy since 1867 with an emphasis on its post-World War II experiences. Canada’s challenging and complex relationships with superpower politics, international development and international institutions is emphasized.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 342

Global Governance: International Organizations

The course studies the role of international organizations in contemporary global governance. It examines the functions of global and regional organizations in major issue areas, including peace and security, international economic relations, development, human rights and the environment. It investigates the effectiveness, legitimacy and accountability of the existing system of global governance such as the United Nations system.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: this course is cross-listed with IS 301. Students may receive credit for only one of IS 301 or PSCI 342.*

PSCI 343

International Political Economy

A critical examination of the relationship and interaction between world politics and the international economy, including topics such as international trade, financial debt crisis, multinational corporations, foreign aid and investment. Theoretical attention will be particularly paid to hegemony and leadership theory, development and underdevelopment, regionalism and integration, international regimes and globalization.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 344

Political Economy of Development and Underdevelopment

This course applies political economy perspectives to issues in global development. Topics may include: theories of global capitalism and economic development, global poverty, crises (such as famine, debt, climate, and conflict emergencies), as well as the role of bodies such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, aid agencies, and NGOs. Major regions covered will include Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 347

War and Peace: Past, Present and Future

An examination of global security and conflict including the causes of war, the evolution of warfare, ethnic conflicts, Western military interventions, the democratic peace, and the future prospects of war and peace.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Formerly numbered PSCI 390AK. Students may receive credit for only one of PSCI 390AK or PSCI 347*

PSCI 351

Citizens, Voters, Activists

This course examines conventional (such as voting, interest groups, and political parties) and unconventional (such as protests and social movement activism) mechanisms of political engagement in Canada. It explains how we practice democracy in Canada and asks how it can be improved. ***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 351 or PSCI 390AP.*

PSCI 352

Indigenous Women and Politics

This course examines the involvement and representation of Indigenous women in Canadian Politics including the ways in which they have influenced policy change. Indigenous women's roles and responsibilities within traditional governance structures which led to more contemporary efforts at community engagement through activism are relevant.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 352 or PSCI 390BE.*

PSCI 353

Modern Political Theory

An examination of key texts and persistent themes in Western political thought from the Enlightenment to the late 19th century, including study of texts by thinkers such as Adam Smith, Kant, Hegel, Wollstoncraft, Marx, J.S. Mill, and Nietzsche.
***Prerequisites: any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 353 or PSCI 390BF.*

PSCI 354

Democracy and Authoritarianism in Contemporary Latin America

This course discusses the historical construction of Latin American political regimes, such as oligarchy, populism, and dictatorship, as well as the transition to democracy. It will approach individual country cases and regional trends, as well as relations between Latin American nations and foreign powers.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one PSCI 354 or PSCI 390BC.*

PSCI 373

Laws and Sausages: Public Policy in Canada

"If you like laws and sausages you should never watch either being made" - Otto von Bismark. This course will ignore Bismark's warning and examine how public policy is made in Canada with a focus on both social and economic policy nationally and provincially.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 381

When Bugs Travel: Pandemics, Governance and Global Health

This course explores health and population health as an issue of global concern, especially in terms of global health emergencies and crises. It will examine institutions that monitor and promote health internationally, the political, social, and economic forces that impact on population health and state and NGO responses to international and domestic health emergencies and crises.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 381 or PSCI 390RX.*

PSCI 390AH

Globalization, States and Nations

The course studies the causes and consequences of globalization from a global political economy perspective. One of the course objectives is to bring clarity to the idea of globalization by introducing the main different positions in the globalization debate.
***Prerequisite: PSCI 100***
*Note: Students may not receive credit for only one of PSCI 390AH and IS 300.*

PSCI 390AM

Politics of South Africa

This course provides an overview of political, economic and social issues in South Africa, covering the initial colonial contact, the formal introduction of apartheid, the anti-apartheid struggle, the transition to non-racial democracy, and post-apartheid politics. ***Prerequisite: either PSCI 220 or PSCI 240 or permission of the Department Head***

PSCI 390AQ

The European Union

This course will explore the political history and evolution of the European Union from the post-war period to the present day. The course will examine the EU's international role as well as its impact on the domestic politics of European states. Particular attention will be paid to its transition to a monetary union and the consequences this has for its present challenges and future directions. ***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 390AR

International Human Rights

This course investigates evolution of international human rights and those institutions that protect human rights such as the UN. It examines the international bodies that have judicial powers over human rights crimes and the challenges they face, including the International Criminal Court and ad hoc tribunals. ***Prequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours***

PSCI 390BA

Politics of Europe

An examination of the political evolution of post-war Europe. Topics may include the development and challenges of the European Union, the economic & political challenges of Post-Communist Eastern Europe, the politics of selected European countries in a comparative context and Europe's place in the international arena.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 390BB

Pop Culture and International Politics

What can we learn about international politics from popular culture? Popular culture presents the possibilities of politics that are not abstracted from of everyday life and experience. This course draws the popular culture to explore the nature, limits, and possibilities of contemporary international politics ***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 390BD

Canadian Foreign Policy and Development Assistance

How does Canada participate in the world through international development? This course explores official development assistance as an element of Canadian foreign policy. Particular attention is paid to long-term policy shifts and to the influence of civil society and the private sector on development policy.
***Prerequisite: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may only receive credit for one of PSCI 390BD or IS 390AP.*

PSCI 390BG

The Politics of Reconciliation

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Final Report, including Calls to Action, was released in 2015, yet much remains unresolved. This course will critically analyze the political implications of what is unaddressed, how reconciliation might politically benefit Indigenous peoples and mainstream Canada, and why it continues to be denied.
***Prerequisites: Any 200-level PSCI course or the completion of 30 credit hours.***

PSCI 400

Honours Project I

Work towards an Honours Paper under the supervision of a faculty member. Students must submit a proposal at the end of the Fall semester.
***Prerequisite: PSCI 100, 210, 220, 230, 240 and SOST 201 and 203.***
* Note: Students who do not achieve a grade of 75% in this course may not continue in the Honours program in political science. *

PSCI 401

Honours Project II

Completion of an Honours Paper under the supervision of a faculty member. Students must submit an extensive research paper based on their proposal in PSCI 400.
*** Prerequisite: PSCI 400 with a minimum grade of 75% ***

PSCI 415

Contemporary Political Theory

This course offers a selection of readings in contemporary political theory, with a changing theme each year the course is offered. Among the themes considered will be power and knowledge, the politics of resistance emancipation, political subjectivity, capitalism and its critiques, and the relationship between politics and the arts.
***Prerequisite: One of PSCI 210, PSCI 310, PSCI 311, PSCI 312, or permission of the Department Head.***

PSCI 416

Feminist Political Thought

This course offers a survey of both historical and contemporary feminist texts that examine debates in feminist thought including debates around patriarchy, equality, intersectionality, sexuality, gender identity, colonialism, Indigeneity, race, and reproductive rights.
***Prerequisite: One of PSCI 210, PSCI 310, PSCI 311, PSCI 312, PSCI 352, PSCI 357, or permission of the Department Head.***

PSCI 417

Decolonial, Anticolonial, and Postcolonial Thought

A survey of historical and contemporary texts in decolonial, anticolonial, postcolonial, Indigenous settler-colonial traditions, and debates in political thought. The course will examine a range of theorists from the Americas, Asia, and Africa. Course themes include empire and imperialism, nationalism and violence, anticolonial social movements, theories of decolonialization, theories of subjectivity, and colonial and decolonial forms of knowledge.
***Prerequisite: One of PSCI 210, PSCI 310, PSCI 311, PSCI 312, or permission of the Department Head.***

PSCI 425

Topics in Comparative Politics

An intensive study of modern theories and issues in comparative politics, which can cover ration choice theory, the new institutionalism as well as the issues of economic development, political culture, democratization and de-democratization, social movements, rights and identities, populism, and ideology.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 434

Mass and Social Media and Democracy

This course examines in detail the structural and ideological aspects of the media in Canada and the world. Topics considered include the political economy of the media, its relationship to the political process and the internal structure of media institutions as they fulfill ideological functions.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 439

Healthy Canadians, Canadian Health Care

This course examines the evolution of the Canadian health care system, the current challenges of health care reform and the dynamics of health care policy making. Particular attention is paid to the relative balance between a focus on health care and a focus on population health.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 439 or PSCI 339.*

PSCI 442

Theories of International Relations

A study of the most important theories, approaches, concepts, and debates within the field of International Relations. Examining the connections between IR Theory and the actual events, both historical and contemporary, of world politics.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 443

Current Issues in International Relations

This course is a seminar in selected topics in International Relations. Topics covered in this course may include the following: current issues of world politics; ethics and international affairs; international conflict and security; history of international relations; and the international political economy.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 451

Provincial Politics in Canada

An examination and comparison of politics in selected Canadian provinces, including mechanisms of intergovernmental co-operation and federal provincial relations.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 452

Current Issues in Canadian Politics

This is a senior seminar that will explore significant contemporary issues facing Canada. Topics may include democratic governance and participation, reconciliation, identity and citizenship, policy reform, Canada’s place in the world and constitutional and institutional reform.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 461

The Politics of Diversity in the 21st Century

Explores the politics of diversity in liberal democracies at the dawn of the 21st century. This course is comparative in nature and examines the dynamics of the politics of diversity across a range of North American and European democracies.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300-level or completion of 60 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 461 or PSCI 490BI.*

PSCI 470

Politics and the Global South

An advanced seminar concerned with political, social, and economic change in selected countries of the Global South; an investigation into the dynamics of underdevelopment and the nature of the world economy.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 471

Power and Principle in Public Administration

This course examines public administration in Canada with three specific focuses: Understanding the relationship between continuity and change in public sector institutions, understanding whose interests are served by advancing particular notions of public services, and preparing students for careers in public administration (broadly understood).
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 471 or PSCI 490BH.*

PSCI 472

Power in International Relations

This course studies both theory and exercise of power in international relations. It investigates the different notions and types of power that shape relations between and among states, international organizations, and transnational entities. It explores who/what has power, what type of power and why in the global political system.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 472 or PSCI 490BF.*

PSCI 473

Erasure and Resurgence: Indigenous Peoples and Canadian Settler Colonialism

What does it mean to call Canada a settler colonial society? How, in settler colonialism, do Indigenous peoples articulate their nationhood? Through a discussion of land rights, economy, and governance, this seminar course will look at settler colonial attempts of erasure alongside Indigenous people's resistance and resurgence.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 473 or PSCI 490BG.*

PSCI 480

Provincial Legislative Internship Program

The study of Saskatchewan's provincial political institutions, politics, public policies, public management, and public administration through a combination of direct observations, directed readings, and research and analysis.
**Must be chosen by a Legislative Internship Selection Committee prior to registration.**
*Note: All activities will take place at the Legislative Building in Regina. The internship runs for 7 months at times determined by the Legislative Internship Advisory Committee.*

PSCI 490AM

Third World Dev. & Revolution

This course studies the topic of development and revolution and is designed for upper-level undergraduate students to pursue a systematic study of developing countries' development from a historical-structural perspective. We shall particularly analyze revolution as a special form of social change and development in a historical context.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 490BJ

Political Theories of Labour and Work

This course examines both canonical theories (eg. Smith, Locke, Marx, Weber) and critical scholarship on the politics of work and labour (eg. Arendt, Marcuse, Federici, Graeber, Weeks). Themes include the relationship between labour and property, waged labour, work as a vocation, gendered and racialized work, and labour migration.
***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 490BK

Comparative Politics Advanced Survey

This course presents an advanced survey of comparative politics as a method and of the application of the comparative method in the study of timely and important socio-political concerns. The course also provides the student with advanced training in reading and writing for political science. ***Prerequisite: Two PSCI courses at the 200 or 300 level or completion of 60 credit hours.***

PSCI 800

Seminar

First part of the course (5-6 weeks) used for instruction in methodology. Last part of course used for presentation of a research paper. (Honours students could integrated into the latter part of the course.)

PSCI 812

Advanced Seminar on Modern Political Theory- continental tradition

This seminar examines the major theoretical concepts and philosophical foundations of the Continental Tradition of Modern Political Theory. The figures examined may include Rousseau, Kant, Hegel, Marx, Kierkegaard and Nietzsche.

PSCI 825

Advanced Seminar on Selected Topics in Comparative Politics

This seminar examines the main theories in comparative politics as well as compares different approaches to the study of political systems, institutions, policies, cultures and ideologies in different regional and national contexts.

PSCI 842

Advanced Seminar on Theories of International Relations

This course is a study of the most important theories, approaches, concepts, and debates within the field of International Relations. The course examines the connections between IR Theory and the actual events, both historical and contemporary, of world politics.

PSCI 844

Politics of Health Care

Public health insurance politicized healthcare. It increased conflict between the state and the medical professions and forced political parties to deal with health issues. Healthcare is the focus of ongoing federal- provincial antagonisms, constitutional wrangling and national public debate. The course will examine how the constellation of political forces involved in each of the above areas converged to produce the unique healthcare system which exists in Canada today.

PSCI 845

Pol Healthcare Labour Relation

This course covers the evolution of Saskatchwan's legislative framework for healthcare labour relations in the post World War II period. It will describe the emergence of various employee, employer, and professional associations and assess their relationships to both the government and one another.

PSCI 846

SIPP Internship

This course is offered at the Sask. Institute of Public Policy in conjunction with the Department of Political Science. Students will be supervised by an accredited member appointed to SIPP. They will be asked to participate in the work of the Institute, write policy papers as required, and complete a research paper by the end of the term. *** Prerequisite: PSCI 800 and 801 ***

PSCI 851

Advanced Seminar on Political Issues in Canada

This course examines various political issues in Canadian political system. Policy areas that will be addressed may include: social, economic, fiscal, environmental, aboriginal people, and labor. Different instructors may choose to concentrate on different policy areas as well as at provincial or federal levels.

PSCI 890AH

Revolution/Self-determination

This course is focused on China's ethnic minorities, especially different modes of governance in three regions: Yunnan, Xinjiang and Tibet. Different manifestations of self-governance in three regions will be studied. The themes examined include revolution, indigenous and ethnic minority people's participation in state affairs, developmental state, colonialism, and self-determination.

PSCI 890AI

Global Financial Governance

The course is an advanced study of the political economy of global finance and financial governance. It focuses on the evolution of the post-second World War international financial order and the recent emergence of a new global financial system. It examines power relations and institutions that underlie financial markets.

PSCI 890AJ

Aboriginal Constit. Issues

This course will examine the place of Aboriginal peoples in the Canadian constitution with particular emphasis on the content and nature of Aboriginal rights, the constitutional requirements for abridgement of such rights and the constitutional entitlement of Aboriginal communities to establish distinct and separate political societies.

PSCI 890AK

Selected Topics in Aboriginal Canadian Decolonization

The course will consider the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Canadian state, both historically and currently, including future political possibilities. Issues include the nature of colonialism (or imperialism), of capitalism, of citizenship; and of identity, race/ism and sex/ism.

PSCI 890AL

Women's Political Involvement in Western Liberal Democracies

The course will examine the political involvement of women in Western liberal democracies such as Canada and West European countries. The focus will be on whether the feminization of political institutions is a necessary and sufficient condition for their democratization.

PSCI 890AM

Theories of the State

The course will examine a variety of contemporary debates and issues relating to the nature of power in the liberal democratic state. The focus will be on those approaches particularly relevant to the issue of Metis politics.

PSCI 890AN

Neoconservatism

This course examines the intellectual underpinnings of the neoconservative ideology that has dominated the Republican Party in the United States and the Conservative Party in Canada. The course will examine four aspects of neoconservatism: Political, social, economic, and international.

PSCI 890AO

Gambling and Public Policy

This course will examine the inter-relationship between government, public policy, and gambling in Canada.

PSCI 890AP

American Foreign Policy in a New Era

Foreign policy decisions are the product of a historical context (individual and cultural). In order to criticize, evaluate and understand those decisions, this course will examine all these components in relation to emerging doctrines of U.S. foreign policy.

PSCI 890AQ

Advanced Feminism, Women and Development

This course will be an examination of the conditions of women's lives in a global context. Engaging feminist theoretics within postcolonialism, anti-racism and civil rights and examine issues that impact women's lives such as poverty, environment, labour, power and subsequent feminist responses.

PSCI 890AR

Development Policy and International Organizations

Students will look at an array of international institutions and their policies in relation to economic development activities, and their participation in social, political and cultural areas. They will examine the increasing role of these organizations in domestic public policy formulation.

PSCI 890AT

Citizen Minority Rights & Political Participation

This course is to study theories of minority rights, citizenship and political participation as well as political participation practice in Canada. The course will examine the political discourse of liberal multiculturalism and its implication for Canadian politics.

PSCI 890AU

Contemporary Citizenship Theory

An examination of the influence of key thinkers in the continental tradition of political theory - Rousseau, Kant, Hegel and Nietzsche - on the development of new conceptions of citizenship in the face of challenges to the identity of the traditional nation state.

PSCI 890AV

Post-Colonial States and Ethnic-Communal Conflict

This course is to designed to study theories of war and peace, ethnic and communal conflict, and post-colonial states, especially through the examination of African geo-political examples. The course will discuss the main international relations (IR) theories on war and peace, ethnic issues and communal conflict.

PSCI 890AW

Postmodernism and the Challenge to the Platonic Tradition

This course is an examination of the challenge that postmodernism poses to the intellectual tradition of Western thought represented by the Platonic and Neo-Platonic defence of objective and universal conceptions of truth and justice.

PSCI 890AX

Selected Topics in Aboriginal-Canadian Decolonization

This course will consider the relationship between indigenous peoples and the Canadian state, both historically and currently. The question of what aboriginality means will be interrogated along with questions about the nature of colonialism (or imperialism) of capitalism, of citizenship and of identity.

PSCI 890AY

Democracy and Rule of Law in China

This graduate course is to study theories of democratization and rule of law. Readings and discussions will be focused on the debate between democracy school and legal reform school in China and on China's human rights movement as that contributing to China's ongoing transition toward democracy and rule of law.

PSCI 890AZ

Integration and Regionalism in Asia

This graduate course is to study international integration theory and regional practice of economic and political integration in Asia-Pacific. Readings and discussions will be particularly focused on distinctive integration experience in Northeast Asia, especially among China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

PSCI 890BA

Dimensions of Ethnic Conflicts and Alternative Strategies

This class will study dimensions of ethnic conflicts and changing international responses to political and social conflict. It will discuss the concepts of prevention, management and settlement of ethnic and religious self-determination conflicts in such case-studies as Bosnia, Kosovo, Isreal/Palestine, and Somalia.

PSCI 890BB

Political Theory=Public Policy

An examination of the critical and theoretical roots of policy discourse and post-positivist approaches to policy studies. Topics will include deliberative policy analysis, the contextual orientation of Harold Lasswell, framing, and narrative approaches.

PSCI 890BC

Classical & Contemporary Readings-Policy Theory

An examination of the development of policy theory through close reading of key texts. Topics include rational decision-making, incrementalism, institutionalism, theories of policy change, network theories and post positivism.

PSCI 890BD

Ancient Political Theory

This class explores the ancient understanding of the best political order. We consider the classical account of historical regimes, focusing on Persia, Athens, and Sparta as portrayed in the writings of Herodotus, Thucydides and Plutarch. We then turn to philosophical reflections on the best regime provided by Plato and Aristotle.

PSCI 890BE

Modern Political Theory: The Continental Tradition

This seminar examines the major philosophical concepts and theoretical foundations of the Continental Tradition of Modern Political Theory. The figures examined may include Rousseau, Kant, Hegel, Marx, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche. *** Prerequisite: Permission of graduate studies required ***

PSCI 890BF

Global Governance and Democracy

This course is an advanced study of the emerging system of global governance from the perspective of democracy. It critically examines the institutions of global governance, including the European Union, in terms of the principles of democracy. It considers the relationship between global governance and territorial state-based democracy.

PSCI 890BG

Marxist Thoery and the Contours of Global Capitalism

This course explores different theoretical approaches within contemporary Marxism and examines the specificities of the systemic logic of global capitalism as well as its historicity. It offers a broad survey of various themes in Marxist theory and how they relate to finance, feminism, anti-racism, ecology, and the Global south, among other themes.

PSCI 890BH

Feminist Thoery

An engagement with feminist theory in general; its principles and intentions. An examination of feminist theories from the 1990s until present intersecting with standpoint, poststructural, postcolonial queer, and antiracist feminist theories; theoretical orientations such as heteronormativity, whiteness and white privilege, performance, masculinities and femininities, power, and so forth.

PSCI 890BI

Media, Politics, and Theory

The course will consider the democratic and cultural significance of the media and its role as creators of political culture (focusing on tolerance, racism, and sexism); and as enmeshed in political and economic frameworks. It will consider the interests and effects of private and public ownership and of ownership concentration of media; and of the constitutional recognition of the media for freedom of information and speech.

PSCI 890BJ

Issues in Global Environmental Governance

An examination of recent trends in global environmental policy, focusing on the shift from international regimes based on multilateral agreements to partnership and private governance arrangements. The course will focus on the consequences of this shift for policy design at regional, national and local scales.

PSCI 890BK

Advanced Course - Constitutional Issues in Canada

An advanced course on the major constitutional negotiations in Canada since WWII. This course places particular emphasis on the patriation of the Constitution in 1982.

PSCI 890BL

The UN Security Council

An examination of the role of the United Nations Security Council in world politics. The first part of the course will focus on the UNSC’s origins, its evolution, the use of the veto, and its recent decisions and activities. The second part of the course will assess proposals for reforming the UNSC’s membership and powers. Permission of Department Head.

PSCI 890BM

Equality and International Relations Theory

This course examines how the idea of equality has been understood in international relations theory. The course will consider how the notion of equality has been addressed within the main strands of IR theorizing including in realism, in liberalism, in the theory of international society, as well as in critical international theory.

PSCI 890BN

Trends in War and Media

An examination of the relations between warfare and the media. The course considers technological, political, and cultural changes in media-military relations. It will look at current trends and future scenarios in the media, in conflict across the world, and in their complex relationship.

PSCI 890BO

Provincial Politics

An examination and comparison of politics in Canadian provinces. Saskatchewan politics will receive significant attention, though always in comparison with other provinces, and significant public policy problems facing the provinces will be examined.

PSCI 890BP

Making Politics Public: Ideas for Citizens

This course examines the efforts of public intellectuals, from a variety of backgrounds, to engage with central political issues. It engages both with the substance of the arguments they make and seeks to understand what makes for a successful intellectual engagement with politics.

PSCI 890BQ

Topics in Canadian Politics - Democracy in Practice

An examination of the practice of Canadian democracy across a range of the country's central institutions and the consideration of the possibilities for the reform and renewal of those institutions.

PSCI 890BR

Power in International Relations

This course studies both theory and exercise of power in international relations. It investigates the different notions and types of power that shape relations between and among states, international organizations, and transnational entities. It explores who/what has power, what type of power and why in the global political system.

PSCI 890BS

Theories of Int'l Relations

A study of the most important theories, approaches, concepts, and debates within the field of International Relations. Examining the connections between IR Theory and the actual events, both historical and contemporary, of world politics. ***Prerequisites: approval of the instructor and department head***

PSCI 890BT

Topics in International Relations

This course is a seminar in selected topics in International Relations. Topics covered in this course may include the following: current issues of world politics; ethics and international affairs; international conflict and security; history of international relations; and the international political economy.

PSCI 890BU

Theoretical Approaches to Media and Politics

An intensive introduction to the major theories and research approaches that examine the intersection of media and politics. In addition, other issues such as audience effects, public opinion formation, gaming culture and new media practices will be considered.

PSCI 890BV

Advanced Topics in International Affairs

This seminar course studies major contemporary issues in international affairs within the framework of main relevant theories. The objective is to develop a good understanding of how the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of international issues are interrelated.

PSCI 890BW

Advanced Topics in International Development

This seminar course examines critical perspectives of international development. Topics include, among others, strategies to alleviate poverty, population growth and scarcity, urbanization, land rights, microfinance, displacement and development refugees, environmental sustainability, and the role of civil society in development.

PSCI 890BX

Erasure and Resurgence: Indigenous Peoples and Canadian Settler Colonialism

What does it mean to call Canada a settler colonial society? How in settler colonialism, do indigenous peoples articulate their nationhood? Through a discussion of land, rights, economy, and governance, this seminar course will look at settler colonial attempts of erasure alongside indigenous peoples' resistance and resurgence.

PSCI 890BY

The Political Economy of the French Revolution

This course is designed to introduce you to the economic dimensions of the Revolution, culminating in a close study of the breakdown of the assignats and the resulting hyperinflation: considered as a case study in the fundamental dysfunction of eighteenth-century French public finance. The course will use an interdisciplinary approach.

PSCI 890BZ

The Comparative Politics of Multiculturalism

The course will examine the politics of multiculturalism from a global comparative perspective. It will address the normative arguments in favour of multiculturalism as well as those in favour of other politics of diversity. The course will also examine the movement and directionality of multiculturalism as policy phenomenon across democracies.
*Note: Students may receive credit for one of PSCI 890BZ or PSCI 461.*

PSCI 890RX

Global Health Governance

This course explores health and population health as an issue of global concern.It will examine the institutions that monitor and promote health internationally as well as the political, social, and economic forces that impact on population health such as: the impact of globalization, the international movement of health professionals and national and international responses to global health issues and crises.