Discussion 2
Prompt:
Which of the theories – realism, liberalism, constructivism, and
radicalism – do you think best explains the recent developments in
Ukraine? Or, do you think not one theory but a combination of
theories help us better explain the developments? Why? Give
reasons.
Required reading for this Essay:
1. Chapter 3
2. Realism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnKEFSVAiNQ
3. Liberalism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZbDMUaqwE8
4. Constructivism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYU9UfkV_XI
5. Exploring the Ukraine Conflict through International Relations
Lenses: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKfB7ih-edo
(In this video, I am discussing Ukraine confict with two of my
colleagues from FSCJ and UCF. We are mainly applying Realism and
Libearlism to our analysis of the conflict. It was recorded about a month
ago.)
(You are welcome to use other resources, but do not use online
learning resources like lumens learning, Wikipedia, study.com,
Khan Academy, Quizlet, etc. You must use resources from
reputable outlets like New York Times, Guardian, BBC, etc.)
Assignment Details:
Your initial posting should be two paragraphs long and 200-250 words
(10 more words fine), excluding citations and references. It should
present your compelling response to the above prompt and provide
strong evidence from the sources listed above to support your position.
You should then make at least one posting, 100-150 words, that
engage your peers’ ideas/arguments.
Part I: Initial Post worth 20 points
Write an original post (similar to a short essay) with at least two
paragraphs that include sources and proper APA or Chicago or MLA
citations and references.
*You must post the initial essay by Thursday. Penalty of 10% for
late initial posts.
Part II: Follow up posts worth 10 points
Write at least one substantive posts which must be a compelling
response to one of your peers’ (initial) posts. It MUST be a substantive
reply (remember, this is your opportunity to demonstrate your
understanding of the material and earn the highest grade possible).
Do not just write laudatory responses to your peers, challenge
them and their arguments….move the discussion forward
*No discussion postings will be accepted after the deadline,
Saturday, 11:59 PM.
A Few Words of Advice…
Your argument should not be based on unfounded, preconceived
beliefs. Statements that start with or include “I believe that…” are only
valid to the extent that they are followed and supported by well-cited,
compelling evidence from reliable sources.
As with the other discussions in this class, your personal opinion on
the issue at hand does not matter for grading purposes. (Our
grading is not influenced by your political leanings). The point of this
discussion is to think about the (above) prompt and argue your point in
a thoughtful manner, using evidence to support your position and/or to
argue against your peers’ position(s).
