Since the end of the Cold War, the United States has been described as the predominant state—or hegemon—in international politics. American political, economic, and military dominance is said to be essential to the construction of the contemporary global order. This course explores this argument through an in-depth look at American foreign policy, from the Second World War to present. Why did U.S. policy become more internationalist in orientation? What tools has the U.S. used to shape global politics? Is U.S. policy driven more by domestic institutions and values or by external opportunities and geopolitics? Will U.S. predominance endure? Or will global order have to change to accommodate the rise of new powers?

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 25

Prerequisites: POL 221 or permission of the instructor.

Distribution Requirements: SBA - Social and Behavioral Analysis

Typical Periods Offered: Spring

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Not Offered; Spring