We shall read and discuss a set of "core" readings, intended not as a comprehensive introduction to the field but as a sampling of styles, scopes and purposes of 'theory'. Then each person will then select three of the redirections listed on the syllabus and choose one more specialized or policy-oriented reading appropriate to each redirection. Grades will be based upon (1) two short "propositional inventories" relating the principal claims of selected theories (3-4 pages each; these are graded "pass" or "redo"); (2) three more substantial reports (each having three components: verbal presentation to the class, summary of the presentation distributed to class members, and written report (8-10 pages each); (3) a final examination covering the common readings, and (4) class participation of all other forms, especially discussion of reports.

The semester is divided into three segments. In the first (weeks 1-4), we analyze three contrasting types of "theory," assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each. In the second (weeks 5-6), we analyze more fully the criteria for formulating and applying theories of utility to understanding and explaining and shaping contemporary international affairs. In the third and longest segment, we apply lessons of the first two components to criticize and contribute to debates about the six redirections enumerated above.

When you are certain that you wish to select an item (most of which are books) for a report, email me (jbennett@syr.edu) your choice. Barring extraordinary, unanticipatable obstacles, you may not subsequently change your selection. Except where noted, no more than one person may select an item for a report.

Clarifying the content of the reports:

1. Handout (no longer than 3 pages) to each member of the class presenting a propositional inventory of the item on which you report. This must be distributed at the beginning of the class meeting at which the report is scheduled.
2. Your talk, scheduled to run 7 minutes, NOT longer.
3. Paper, 8-12 pages, consisting of
(a) enumeration of the principal claims of the book under discussion (Propositional Inventory)
(b) relation of these claims to other theorists' claims, as appropriate, drawn from required readings of this class and,
optionally, from other material treated in this class (such as other books which are objects of reports)
(c) your evaluation of the relevance and usefulness of the theory being reviewed, as it might be applied to guide the formulation and implementation of policy (of a state or other significant political unit) to address one of the "redirections" noted on the syllabus.

The handout (#1) above must be distributed to the class at the beginning of the class meeting. Your talk does not have to follow the PI in the handout: you may distribute your time over the PI, the relations to theory, or the 'redirection,' as you wish. You may, of course, utilize the overhead projector.

The paper (#3 above) is due at "close of business" on the same day that the talk is scheduled. If it is late, a penalty of one grade step will be assessed. For instance, if the paper is excellent and receives a nominal grade of A but is submitted two days late, then the grade recorded will be B+: From A to A- to B+.

I do not accept email submissions of papers. I do not read attachments to email. If you wish to send me a piece of text by email, simply insert it in .txt format (ascii or a commonly used iso encoding) within the body of the email.