The Theory and Practice of Chinese Foreign Policy

Prerequisites

Basic studies.

Compensations

The grading level of the lecture course is 2 study points and it compensates for one book in the study unit M225. The Foreign Policies of Great Powers.

Target group/Course level

Students of World Politics or Chinese/Asian politics.

Objectives

The objective of the course is to provide students with a good overall view and understanding of the practice of current Chinese foreign policy (e.g. central objectives, main concerns, underlying internal dynamics, decision-making style) and the theories commonly used to explain it. Amid growing challenges to the political and economic arrangements underpinning the Post-WWII global order, understanding China’s positions on global issues, and the rationale behind them, is more important than ever. However, studying Chinese foreign policy still presents considerable challenges to Western scholars due to unfamiliarity and difficulties in accessing relevant research material. At the end of the course, students should have gained a set of analytical frameworks and tools with which to better understand China’s foreign policy and it’s place in world politics.

Content

• Mon 30 March Mikael Mattlin: Introduction
• Thu 2 April Mikael Mattlin: China’s foreign policy orientation
• Mon 6 April Matti Nojonen: Chinese national strategic culture
• Thu 9 April Matti Nojonen: Sino-US relations
• Thu 16 April Elina Sinkkonen: Nationalism and national identity
• Mon 20 April Mikael Mattlin: China and the UN system
• Thu 23 April Mikael Mattlin: Special issues in Chinese foreign policy
• Mon 27 April Mikael Mattlin: Sino-EU relations & Discussion and conclusion (4h)
• Wed 29 April Course exam (10-12, U37 sh 4)
• Readings

Course work and forms of study

Will be specified by the beginning of the course. N.B. The remaining credits of the study unit are to be completed in the form of a book exam within six months, at the latest, after the date of the course completion.

Grading

The course work will be graded on a scale from 0 to 5.

Course results and retake

The results of the course will be posted on the notice board of the Department by xx.x.

The exam retake will be held Mon 25.5. at 16-18, PR sali 1. Prior registration for the exam retake between 7-14.5. in WebOodi. Don't mind if WebOodi informs you that you have already taken the course.

Course evaluation anddevelopment

During the last session, students will have an opportunity to give feedback on the course to the lecturer and to fill in an anonymous evaluation form. During the course feedback can be given anonymously.