INTA 617: SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Credits: 
3

This course is geared towards promoting students’ knowledge and understanding of the impact of technological innovations on the international system. It begins with explanations of terms such as science, technology and international relations and then examines their relationships. It then discusses the overall effect of material elements, technical instruments and scientific practices on international security, statehood and global governance. The course further analyzes new developments in biology, psychoactive drugs and the uses of nuclear energy as instruments of power. It highlights and discusses problems of safety against waste disposal, nuclear weapon proliferation, atomic and hydrogen bombs and missiles. It concludes by examining the implications of alternative sources of energy; environment and climate change on the international system. The course will be delivered through lecturer-led, seminar presentations with documentary illustrations from audios and visuals. Students are expected to develop skills to be able to analyze the impact of technology on inter-state relations.