Extra credit assignment: Podcasts

International relations is sometimes abstract. We talk about our assumptions regarding generic “actors” and simplify their interests and interactions. We traffic in large datasets that can dull the complexities of individual situations. These are all fair charges.

The goal of this exercise is to demonstrate that (a) the abstract models that we’ve studied can be applied to ongoing, real-world current events and (b) applying those models can contribute to our assessment of those events.

The deadline is May 9th 12pm (noon) EST. I strongly recommend typing your answer somewhere stable, like a notes or word file, then pasting it into the box below. Some people have lost their answers if they lose internet connection while writing.

Also, if the links don’t work, or it links you to your non-preferred podcast player, ***just google it*** and find the right player or link.

Your task is to:

(1) Listen to (at least) one episode of the following podcasts:

Make sure to identify which podcast and episode title you listened to, and copy the link to the episode in your answer.

(2) Identify arguments made during their topic of discussion and apply what we’ve learned to that topic.

Your answer should be 2-3 paragraphs. The most emphasis should be on question (2).

Another helpful tip is to be “positive” in your argument. The best answers will not just link the podcast to a concept from class by saying “This is a war. That’s kind of like the bargaining model thing we did.” The best answers will demonstrate how including our study would enhance the podcast discussion. For example, “The participants really focused on whether the rebels were crazy, but that might distract from some deeper problems in the civil war, like how this is an audience cost problem in the following ways…”

You will be evaluated on 1) whether you identify a podcast clearly, 2) summarize it in a few sentences, and 3) make at least 2-3 points that link clearly to a concept or idea from the semester.

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