INTR8062 Humanitarianism in World Politics
| Offered By | Department of International Relations |
|---|---|
| Academic Career | Graduate Coursework |
| Course Subject | International Relations |
| Offered in | First Semester, 2011 and First Semester, 2012 |
| Unit Value | 6 units |
| Course Description |
Humanitarianism is a prominent powerful, though often vexed issue in world politics today. Debate on the role of humanitarianism in world politics often vacillates between belief in its capacity to transform the international system and frustration and disillusionment with its perceived failure to do so. In examining the role of humanitarianism in world politics, this course seeks to disaggregate these debates, revealing key themes, trends and questions in the evolution of the concepts and practices of humanitarianism. Central amongst these are the themes of assistance and protection that are often viewed as at the very heart of humanitarianism, along with advocacy and temoinage. The course first examines the historical evolution and global diffusion of humanitarian concepts and practices. In this we encounter ideas such as the humanitarian imperative and humanitarian space, as well as discuss the genesis of movements that have been central to the globalisation of humanitarian practices, such as the ICRC. In the second section of the course we look in detail at the concepts and practices of international humanitarian assistance, considering in particular some of the dilemmas and paradoxes of assistance. In the third section of the course we explore the concepts and practices of humanitarian intervention. We critically examine the evolving relationship between humanitarian intervention and the concept of sovereignty; the emergence of the idea of a ‘responsibility to protect' and the extent to which this can and is being implemented. Finally we examine the extent to which conceptions of humanitarian obligations have come to underpin state building projects states that have been identified as ‘failed' or ‘failing'. |
| Learning Outcomes |
Students by the end of the course will have developed both practical and theoretical insight into the evolution of contemporary discourses and practices of humanitarianism. They will have examined formulation, implementation and subsequent assessment of international humanitarian assistance. They will have grappled with the fundamental problems of how to assist, who to assist and when to assist, as well as learnt of the political pressures that shape where we assist. In addition, they will have critically examined the development of both the norms and practices of humanitarian intervention, placing these in the context of broader debates about sovereignty and protection in world politics. |
| Indicative Assessment |
5000 - 6000 words of written assessment, comprising essays, seminar papers and an examination, as deemed appropriate by lecturer. |
| Workload |
8 hours per week: two for seminar attendance, and six for reading and writing. Please note this is a general guide, averaged over the semester and the final hours ultimately depend on the individual's ability in reading and writing. |
| Course Classification(s) | AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs. |
| Preliminary Reading | Reading required before course begins. |
| Technology Requirements | Students need access to a computer with a Microsoft Word and access to the internet. |
| Programs | Graduate Diploma in International Affairs, Graduate Diploma in International Affairs, Master of Arts (International Relations), Master of International Affairs, Master of International Affairs, and Master of Arts (International Relations) |
| Other Information |
Delivery Mode: Semester 1 2010, on campus, seminar-style. |
| Academic Contact | Jacinta O'Hagan |
The information published on the Study at ANU 2011 website applies to the 2011 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2010 website.
