This free online course will introduce you to current thinking on the causes of armed conflict in the world today. It looks at a range of modern and historical conflicts and draws on a variety of theories and approaches. It will appeal to anyone with an interest in world affairs.

Over six weeks you will:

Define what war is and what it is not

Familiarise yourself with both Liberal and Realist theories of international relations

Explore arguments about the causes of inter-state and non-state wars (such as insurgencies and revolutions), both historical and current

Use evidence to evaluate different theories of war

The course will help you develop your capacity for independent learning and increase your understanding of conflict and international affairs.

You will learn with Dr David Easter, academic lead for War Studies Online, Department of War Studies, King’s College London.

The course features lecturers from the Department including Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman, official historian of the Falklands War, and foreign policy advisor to former Prime Minister Tony Blair.