The Study of International Relations

Concerns the relationships among the world governments and their close

connection with:

other actors (such as

international organizations, multilateral

corporations, and individuals);

other social structures (including economics, culture, and

domestic politics); and,

other geographic

al and historical

influences.

International Relations

IR and Daily Life

As students, how can you participate in

the international

relations?

Some example

s:

Vote in an

election

work in a political

campaign

buy a product or

service traded on

world marketswatch

the news

Through those choices, every person makes a unique contribution, however small, to the world of international

relations.

How can international

relations affect our lives?

Jobs depend on the global economy and international economic competition

Many goods we consume such as electronics, clothes, and gasoline depend on the world

trading systemThe effects of war and its dangers even in

peacetimeWhen we watch TV and filmsAdvancement of technology

Communication and transportation

Globalization IR and Daily Life

It is practical discipline• Different personalities especially

professors publicize their ideas to influence the foreign policy of their country

Theoretical debates in the field of IR are fundamental, but unresolved.• Understanding how the world

works

IR as a Field of Study

It is about international politics – the decisions of government about foreign

actors, especially other governments

It is about diplomacy, war, trade relations, alliances,

cultural exchanges, participation in

international organizations, and so forth (Political

relations)

Define by its two main subfields: • International Security• International Political Economy

End