May 27, 2022

What We Are Learning This Week with Dr. Saira Bano

The social constructivist approach in International Relations
Science Poster

May 30, 2022 in POLI 381 Introduction to International Relations

Dr. Saira Bano is exploring the Social Constructivist approach in IR and how ideas, beliefs and values influence world politics.

 

Can you tell us a little more about this topic?

Social Constructivism in IR argues that global politics is socially constructed. Ideas, values, beliefs and norms influence the identities and interests of states. International system is defined by socially constructed realities, and therefore, shared rules, practices, meanings, and identities are key to understanding the system. This social construction defines the interests, identities, preferences and actions of each state. Both realists and liberals assume that states’ interests are given. Constructivists, on the other hand, raise a critical question of how states construct their interests and which interests are to be respected as vital, legitimate and essential.

Bano Headshot

What else do you cover in your course?

POLI 381 introduces the theoretical background to international relations and examines a range of contemporary topics through which it is possible to explore the behaviour of states and international organizations. The goal of this course is to provide an awareness of the theory and practice of international relations and a structure within which to understand international events. This course covers major theories of international relations and applies them to understand international politics in the modern world. IR is not only about ideas and theories, but it also seeks to understand the realities of today’s world and to suggest solutions to the world’s many problems.

What do you love about teaching this course?

The thing I love most about this course is that students acquire a comprehensive understanding of the most salient issues and trends in contemporary world politics through interactive class. Engaged students are highly motivated to learn, interested in material and think critically about important concepts in class. They identify and analyze the connection between international relations theories and current events. It stimulates their interests how theoretical constructs shed light on current events.

Finally, what other courses would you recommend for students interested this topic?

Students interested in international relations can get an in-depth knowledge by taking courses like INTR 301 A Multidisciplinary Survey of International Relations and INTR 501 Advanced Seminar in International Relations. Students interested in specific topics of international relations can enhance their knowledge by taking a wide range of courses that the department offers.

 

Our Thanks to Dr. Saira Bano for sharing your course with us

Follow Dr. Bano on Twitter @sairaban1