The course is designed to provide students with a common understanding of the international system, international politics and its role in the modern world in the age of communication and to familiarize them with major international relations theories that are relevant for solving problems of the modern global community.

The course aims to critical assessment of the major theories and concepts which define international relations as a field of study. It covers: (1) examination of the historical evolution of international systems, with focus on core analytical concepts (e.g., sovereignty, national interest, collective security, balance of power, etc); and (2) in-depth analysis o explanatory theories (e.g., realism, idealism/liberalism, constructivism, feminism, neo-Marxism) and theoretical debates among them.