IRS 202: Structure of International Society

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, the students should be able to:

1. state the basis for the classification of the world into the first world, second world, and third world;
2. discuss the advent of technological revolution and the spread of nationalism;
3. analyse the breakup of the European empires and the rise of the super powers; and
4. examine the collapse of the Soviet Union and its implications for the eastern bloc.

Course Contents

The major historical, intellectual and sociological developments which have shaped relations between nations, particularly the industrial and technological revolution. The spread of nationalism, the breakup of the European empires and the rise of the superpowers. The classification of the international society into three according to their levels of technological development and military power: (the First World; the Second World; and the Third World). The collapse of the Soviet Union and its implications for the socialist movement vis-à-vis the all-pervading capitalist ideology.