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The field of International Relations has long focused on the security of states and how best to preserve a peaceful balance of power among them. In the twentieth century,  processes of decolonisation led to a dramatic increase in the number of nation states. However, when many of them achieved their independence they were left lacking the crucial infrastructures, diversified productive sectors and human capital necessary to grow and provide for their populations.

On this course we will investigate the problems faced by a number of countries in the post-Second World War period as they sought to achieve stability and find their place in the world. We will consider development projects which set out to raise living standards and the problems that arose from Cold War politics as the east and west and their development agencies sought to steer newly independent states into their orbit.

We will also explore geopolitical events in the post-9/11 world, asking ourselves whether everything really changed after 9/11, as some influential voices have claimed, and look at how certain groups emerged in this period to be seen as threats to the West in need of containment.

No previous knowledge of politics or history is necessary.

Class Recordings

These classes are not recorded

 

Attendance Certificate

 

Successful completion of this course leads to the award of an Imperial College attendance certificate

 

Terms and conditions apply to all enrolments to this course. Please read them before enrolment

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Contact us

Imperial after:hours Adult Education
Centre for Languages, Culture and Communication
Level 3 - Sherfield Building
Imperial College London
London SW7 2AZ
eveningclass@imperial.ac.uk
Tel. +44 20 7594 8756