"How to Escape from a Mountain Lion: Do not run. Try to make yourself appear bigger by opening your coat wide. Do not crouch down. If you have small children with you, pick them up - do all you can to appear larger. Back away slowly or wait until the animal moves away. If the lion still behaves aggressively, throw stones. Fight back if you are attacked."
- The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook

When countries are under attack or facing global problems, they may respond in various ways. They may fight back. They may bluff their way out of the situation by trying to appear larger or more powerful. Do they have other options available? Perhaps more peaceable options? What are the pros and cons of various types of responses given the context of the situation?

This course will lay the theoretical and conceptual groundwork for analyzing global issues. We will have the opportunity to debate these issues using theories derived from researching the goals and positions of various international actors. In addition, we will consider the cultural, social, religious, economic, and historical contexts surrounding the potential solutions to these issues.