Document Type

Graduate Syllabus

Date

Fall 2008

School

Diplomacy

Course Number

DIPL 6402

Course Description

The European Union (ne European Economic Community) began in 1958, 50 years ago. During this relatively brief history, the geopolitical structure of Europe, indeed of the whole world, has felt the impact of these extraordinary developments. So we ask important questions about how they came about in order to learn more about potential future developments.

The model for this course is the manner in which US constitutional law is taught in US universities. After all, the study of the European Union must begin with a focus this new constitutional structure in Europe. Accordingly, the pedagogical emphasis will be on knowledge of a new supranational institution. With knowledge should come a deeper understanding of a cultural framework which promises to have a major impact on international relations throughout the world.

The class will depend on required readings from a comprehensive up-to-date publication as indicated above. ( This is not an American style law school casebook, but nicely summarizes the way the legal regime functions in terms of policies.) Additional readings are suggested on each topic as studied during the semester. Preparation for class involves a semester-long assignment for each student to represent the interests of one or more member states of the EU as specific issues arise during class discussion.

Final grades will be based on the following formula:

Class participation: 30%

Brief mid-term paper: 30%

Final exam (take home ) 40%

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