ETHR2100 – The Role of Law in International Politics
While politics and law are deeply intertwined in contemporary global affairs, scholars and practitioners often argue that the law is not a significant restraint on international relations.
This course looks at the interplay between international law and international relations by exploring the evolution, nature, and function of international law in world politics and by situating it in its historical, philosophical and political contexts. It considers the relationship between politics, philosophy and law on issues such as the use of force, war crimes, human rights and the environment, among others.
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Reflect on the meaning of international law and international politics;
- Situate the role of law in international politics;
- Understand the differences between domestic and international law;
- Decide whether an international legal system exists;
- Comment on the legitimacy and efficiency of such an international legal system;
- Debate if and how the citizens of the world can contribute to make international law;
- Understand the ethical consequences of the international legal process;
- Assess the key theoretical approaches to international law;
- Explore the practical implications for contemporary legal issues;
- Assess the moral and legal implications of foreign policy decisions.