Diplomacy and Power

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

What is Power – what are ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ power? What is their relevance in Diplomacy ? And what role do military, political, and economic strength, as well as culture play in diplomacy? This course examines the role of power in contemporary diplomatic practice by discussing theoretical considerations as well as analyzing practical applications through a number of case studies. This course will introduce students to the conceptual, theoretical, and historical foundations of power in order to develop a systematic understanding of the significant role the four sources of social power in Diplomacy play. We will also examine and analyze a variety of case studies, and students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge through a number of projects, group based as well as individual, focusing on regions of their interest. The course is structured in 3 parts. The first part introduces the notion of power, it different types and their significance for the conduct of diplomacy. To conclude this part, students will be asked to compose a reading synthesis as part of their group work assignment as a means to sharpen their critical reading and writing skills. Part 2 shifts the focus to the notion of Soft Power, focusing in particular on diffusions and transitions, as well as the impact of culture. Students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge on the critical analysis of a variety of case studies as part of their group work assignment. Part 3, also taking student’s research interest into consideration, will focus on the practical implementation of soft power by discussing the practice of cultural diplomacy of a selection of actors, such as Cold War Russia and the US, 21st century China, and others.