Any topic (writer’s choice)

Choose one of the two options below to write about. The term paper will be a 3-4 page, single-spaced research paper. Any consistent citation style is acceptable. It is important that claims be substantiated with citations from reputable sources, including the textbook. Err on the side of caution with citations because without exception plagiarism (i.e. presenting the words or ideas of another person as your own) will result, at minimum, in a 0% F.

Option 1:

Some scholars of international relations believe that democracies are less likely to go to war than other types of states. Assess this claim. Do you agree or not? What points from the textbook and discussions can you use to substantiate your position?  We have addressed several potential causes of war in this course. Try to incorporate the causes we have discussed in your answer and evaluate them. There is no wrong answer to this question, but you will be evaluated on how well you support your positions.

Option 2:

In this course, we have made frequent reference to three theoretical perspectives: realism, liberalism, and constructivism. Evaluate the Cold War, including the immediate aftermath of WWII and the downfall of the USSR, from these three perspectives. How might each theory view the Cold War differently? What useful explanations and anomalies might arise when assessing the Cold War from each of these angles?

A Successful Paper:

The essay contains a wealth of facts that are both accurate and relevant. The paper fully develops complex ideas and explains phenomena adequately. The paper remains focused on the issue selected for discussion and avoids straying into tangential subjects. The paper observes the minimum requirements for length, style, and citation.