Year 2025-2026 > Semester 1Year 2025-2026

Theories and political sociology of international relations

Presentation

This course aims to provide conceptual and methodological tools for studying global and international phenomena. How can theories of international relations be used to study transnational objects? How can we integrate an international perspective into political sociology? Is it necessary to invent new theoretical frameworks to understand phenomena embedded in globalization, or should we simply adapt the tools of political sociology to phenomena whose scale is changing, but not their nature?

Teaching objectives

Familiarize students with classic and contemporary works in international relations theory.

Understand the main concepts and methods of studying international relations, either to provide additional tools for the research students will be carrying out as part of their university studies, or to prepare them for national administration exams (Quai d’Orsay, ENA).

Understand who the players in international relations are, how the international relations scene is constituted; reflect on the changing practices of international relations, for those who plan to work in diplomacy, in the international civil service, or in international organizations.

See the page in French for more details