The study of international relations focuses on how people across borders act and interact. It is a multidiscipline, with contributions from anthropology, economics, geography, history, law, philosophy, sociology and political science. There are several schools of thought in IR, including realism, liberalism and institutionalism. In addition, a number of subfields have developed: regional studies, international security, and the study of globalisation and world politics.
The discipline draws on many other disciplines to help understand world affairs, including the arts and humanities to build cultural sensitivity and understanding. Studying this subject will help you develop a range of skills that are invaluable in the workplace and for everyday life, such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork and empathy.
One of the central concepts in international relations is sovereignty, which asserts that a state has sole control over its territory and internal affairs. The modern concept of sovereignty was created through the process of decolonization in the 20th century. The concept is still contested, especially by states that have been historically dissatisfied with the current international order, such as Russia and China.
Studying this subject will help you understand the complex political landscape and the ways in which countries, organisations and people cooperate to shape our globalised world. It will also equip you with a range of transferable skills that are valued in the workplace, including problem-solving and conflict resolution. It is also a good choice if you are looking to become a diplomat, or work in a global business, as it will provide you with the skills to communicate effectively and navigate cultural differences.