Teaching
Human Rights & Political Violence
A number of key questions will be addressed in this class. Are human rights universal or culturally relative? Are they individual or collective? Should civil and political rights take precedence over basic human needs? What should be the relationship between rights and national sovereignty? What is the role of non-governmental organizations and social movements in changing conceptions of rights and human protections? How should new democracies cope with the legacies of authoritarian rule, especially with murderers and torturers? When is humanitarian intervention justified, and when is it necessary? What are the human rights responsibilities of multinational corporations? How should conflicts between rights be resolved, for example, property rights versus environmental protections or religious freedom versus discrimination against women? What role should human rights play in U.S. foreign policy?
Introduction to Comparative Politics
"She really takes the time to help her students outside of class"
This course is designed to introduce students to the comparative study of political systems in different countries and regions of the world. We will begin with an introduction to the fundamental concepts and theories that are used in the field of comparative politics, and then apply them to a number of specific countries that represent vastly different parts of the globe. In doing so, we will see how the logic of comparison will help us begin to tackle the following questions: What are the major similarities and differences in political processes and institutions between countries? Why do they differ? What does this variation mean for political and economic stability, social and economic welfare, and the prospects for democracy? Finally, how can we begin to explain patterns of continuity and change across political systems?
Introduction to International Relations
"The range and selection of topics was very good and provided a great introduction/overview of international politics."
This course introduces some of main theoretical approaches to the study of international relations, including realism, liberalism, Marxism, feminism, and constructivism. We will review key concepts such as nationalism, balance of power, deterrence, sovereignty and collective goods. We will then apply these key terms and concepts to substantive areas of study in the IR field, such as international conflict and peace, international law and organizations, and international political economy.