In this course you will learn the fundamentals of international law, gain an understanding of particular subfields within international law, learn how to think like a lawyer, and engage on topics of contemporary and timeless significance.  At its simplest, international law is the law that governs the relationship between states. It is law, to be sure (well...see the readings) but is extraordinarily tied to public policy and political realities. It is thus particularly appropriate that this class is taught in a political science department as no other field of law is as connected to politics – and all fields of law are connected to politics. We will analyze the issues raised in this course from both legal and political science points of view.