Overview of Course

This course introduces students to the politics of current global problems with a special emphasis on the countries along our journey on Semester at Sea. Although this course focuses on important problems that affect the world today, the course does more than just discuss current events. Through readings, in-class discussion, debate, and in-depth case studies this course provides students with insights into the causes and trends that led to the problem under consideration as well as some of the possible solutions to these important problems. Over the course of the voyage, we will examine issues of development, culture, environmental degradation, the rise of nationalism, human rights, and more. We will examine these topics through various perspectives and consider ways that these topics affect your own life.