1) As we have seen with the current pandemic, important issues often develop that
cross international borders. How, for example, can countries deal with climate
change? What tools—such as international institutions—are available to nations
to address regional or global issues? What makes resolving cross-border issues
especially challenging? What role does power play in resolving collective action?
2) The “bottom-up” portion of international relations seldom receives the same
level of attention from pundits and scholars as the “top-down” perspective.
Make the case that ordinary people matter for the conduct of world affairs. Refer
to specific processes discussed in the textbook and elsewhere — transnational
advocacy networks, increased trade and social interaction, transportation,
telecommunications, etc. — in making your case. Be convincing!
3) The ongoing war in Ukraine poses multiple questions and challenges in world
affairs. Some of the most critical involve international institutions. Some have
argued that the Russian invasion proves the impotence of liberal international
institutions. Others counter that these very same institutions are an important
locus of resistance to Russian aggression. Do international institutions matter
and if so how? Take a position an defend it using insights from the textbook.