POLS 115. The Politics and Practice of Wartime Humanitarian Action (IR)

This seminar explores the history and politics of humanitarianism. Topics include: the origins of the modern humanitarian system; international law and humanitarian principles; the local, national and global politics of contemporary humanitarian action; the role of innovation and technology; non-western approaches to humanitarianism; new humanitarian actors (private sector, transnational civil society, non-state actors); the psychosocial dimensions of aid work; and humanitarian ethics. Students will draw upon in-depth case studies of humanitarian emergencies and will participate in a simulation exercise.
Prerequisite: Political Science honors seminars are reserved for political science honors students, and when space allows, political science majors. Please check with department administrator for questions regarding this policy, or if you are in need of an exception.
Social Sciences.
2 credits.
Eligible for PPE.
Fall 2025. Paddon Rhoads.
Spring 2027. Paddon Rhoads.
Catalog chapter: Political Science
Department website: http://www.swarthmore.edu/political-science

Access the class schedule to search for sections.