Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - POL 141 D100

International Relations (3)

Class Number: 6198

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Mon, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores causes and consequences of international political conflict, including war, terrorism, protectionism, nationalism, economic disparity, migration, and humanitarian crises. Evaluates how states and non-state actors navigate and influence these conflicts and the role of international law, diplomacy, and organizational cooperation. Analyzes worldviews on war, peace, human rights, and world order. Students who have taken POL 241 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

Course Description:

The course offers an introduction to world politics. We will explore current affairs in these turbulent times, the structures of global governance, and the factors that shape the dynamics of global politics. Topics and issue areas include: actors in international relations; international organizations, diplomacy and negotiations; armed conflict and international security; terrorism; international political economy, global environmental politics, and human rights.

Course Objectives:

Students will pursue the objective to:

1) Develop knowledge of contemporary international affairs;

2) Improve understanding of the forces that shape world politics;

3) Refine their ability to engage in political analysis of world news; and

4) Grow awareness of the impacts of world politics on our lives. 

Grading

  • News journal 25%
  • Midterm exam 35%
  • Final exam 25%
  • Tutorial participation 15%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

The textbook is Richard Devetak and Daniel R. McCarthy, An Introduction to International Relations (Cambridge University Press, 2024, fourth edition).

Additional required readings are academic journal articles that are available electronically on the Canvas course site. Attention: the articles in the course calendar are tentative and likely to be updated before the semester begins, in order to reflect summer developments in world politics.


Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.