The course MPS-002: International Relations – Theory and Problems in the IGNOU MA Political Science programme introduces learners to the major theoretical approaches and contemporary debates in the study of international relations. The syllabus examines the evolution of international relations as an academic discipline and explains how different theoretical perspectives interpret global political developments.
The syllabus is organised into four blocks, which move from the foundations of international relations theory to the analysis of contemporary global political issues.
Block 1 – Foundations and Approaches to International Relations
Block 1 introduces the nature, scope and evolution of international relations as a discipline. It explains how the study of international relations developed after the First World War and discusses the importance of theoretical approaches in understanding world politics.
The block examines major theoretical traditions such as Realism, Neo-realism, Liberalism and Neo-liberalism, which provide different perspectives on international politics. These approaches analyse concepts such as power, national interest, cooperation, international institutions and global governance.
The block also highlights how theoretical debates help explain the behaviour of states and the functioning of the international system.
Important themes from Block 1
Key themes corresponding to this block include:
- Nature and scope of International Relations
- Evolution of International Relations as a discipline
- Realist approach to International Relations
- Neo-realism and structural realism
- Liberal and Neo-liberal approaches
- Differences between Realist and Liberal perspectives
Block 2 – Critical and Alternative Perspectives in International Relations
Block 2 examines alternative and critical approaches that challenge the traditional state-centric perspectives of international relations. These approaches emphasise the role of economic structures, gender relations and social inequalities in shaping global politics.
The block discusses the Dependency Theory, which explains the unequal economic relationship between developed and developing countries. It also introduces the Feminist approach to international relations, which analyses global politics from the perspective of gender relations and highlights the marginalisation of women in international decision-making.
These perspectives broaden the study of international relations by examining issues beyond traditional power politics.
Important themes from Block 2
Key themes related to this block include:
- Dependency Theory and its arguments
- Contributions of Latin American scholars to dependency theory
- Criticisms and limitations of dependency theory
- Feminist perspectives on the state and international relations
- Feminist vision of human rights and nationalism
Block 3 – Global Political Economy and Changing World Order
Block 3 focuses on the economic dimensions of international relations and the transformation of the global political and economic order in the contemporary period. It examines debates surrounding globalisation, sustainable development and global economic governance.
The block also analyses the role of international financial institutions and economic organisations in shaping global economic policies. It discusses how global economic processes affect developing countries, economic inequality and state sovereignty.
The emergence of global corporatism and transnational economic actors is also examined as an important feature of contemporary world politics.
Important themes from Block 3
Key themes related to this block include:
- Environment and development debate
- Sustainable development
- Globalisation and changing international relations
- Role of IMF and World Bank in global economy
- Global corporatism and state sovereignty
- Science and technology in international relations
- Changing world order and challenges to nation-states
Block 4 – Contemporary Issues in International Relations
Block 4 examines major contemporary challenges and political movements that influence international relations in the post-Cold War era. It analyses issues such as international terrorism, ethnicity, diaspora and transnational movements, which increasingly shape global politics.
The block also discusses concepts such as self-determination, humanitarian intervention and the role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in global governance. These topics highlight the growing influence of non-state actors and global civil society in international politics.
Overall, the block explains how contemporary global challenges are transforming the traditional structure of international relations.
Important themes from Block 4
Key themes related to this block include:
- Self-determination in international relations
- Intervention and humanitarian intervention
- International terrorism and global responses
- Ethnicity and ethnic conflicts
- Diaspora and transnational movements
- Role of NGOs in international relations
- Changing nature of American power in world politics
- Middle powers and emerging powers in global politics
Go to: IGNOU MPS-002 International Relations | Exam Guide | 20 Most Important Questions based on PYQ
Go to: Exam Strategy | IGNOU MPS-002 International Relations | TEE Guide
Disclaimer: This syllabus overview is prepared for academic guidance and revision purposes based on authentic IGNOU study material and publicly available course structure. Learners are advised to refer to official IGNOU sources for the complete and latest syllabus.