OVERVIEW

The module examines the determinants of geopolitical action, geopolitical theory from both a historical and contemporary perspective, and the relevance of current geopolitical reflection for understanding modern challenges and disputes. From a geographical perspective, the module aims to provide the necessary tools to identify the relational dynamics established between space, politics, and economics.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module provides the methodologies and tools of geopolitics useful for analysing and understanding the discipline at the time of globalisation. In particular, starting from a historical approach to classical theories, the keys to understanding transversal phenomena (geography, demography, religion ...) that characterise the geopolitical actions of the major institutional players (USA, China, Europe, ...) and others are provided.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon completion of the module, students will be able to understand the foundations of the discipline and the main issues related to geopolitics, acquiring a lexicon that will enable them to easily comprehend and examine scientific texts in the field. Consequently, they will be able to interpret and discuss – including from a critical perspective – current geopolitical trends, taking into account different territorial scales and the multiplicity of actors involved. In a context of rising international uncertainty and instability, the module aims to develop students' ability to apply geopolitical analysis to specific contemporary case studies, thereby promoting multifunctional independent judgment, alongside the development of communication skills and the acquisition of a specialized technical vocabulary.

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures, seminars, contemporary case-study analysis, as well as classroom debates and discussions. Should student numbers permit, the possibility of implementing group work based on case studies and/or scientific material provided by the instructor will be considered.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

After addressing the origin and evolution of the discipline, the module examines:

• the main theories of classical geopolitics;
• the development of the discipline in the post-Cold War era;
• cross-cutting geopolitical aspects (resources and energy, demography, economics, religions, etc.);
• neo-geopolitics and the overcoming of the latent state-centric paradigm;
• the new territorial configurations of geopolitical conflict;
• the contemporary geopolitical situation and the role of regional actors.

The module deals with topics in line with the objectives of the global Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030, in particular:

GOAL 10: Reduce inequality within and between nations 10.5 Improve the regulation and supervision of global financial markets and institutions and strengthen their enforcement 10.6 Ensure greater representation and voice for developing countries in the decision-making process of international economic and financial institutions worldwide to provide more effective, credible, accountable and legitimate institutions 10.7 Facilitate orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and the mobility of people, including through the implementation of planned and well-managed migration policies 10.a Implement the principle of special and differential treatment for developing countries, in particular least developed countries, in accordance with the agreements of the World Trade Organization 10.b Promote Official Development Assistance and related financial flows, including foreign direct investment, to States where the need is greatest, in particular least developed countries, African countries, small island developing States and landlocked developing countries, in accordance with their national plans and programmes

GOAL 16: Promote peaceful and more inclusive societies for sustainable development; offer access to justice for all and create efficient, accountable and inclusive bodies at all levels 16.3 Promote the rule of law domestically and internationally and ensure equal access to justice for all 16.8 Widen and strengthen the participation of developing countries in institutions of global governance.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

FOR ATTENDING STUDENTS

The materials presented during lectures will be made available on AulaWeb. These materials -integrated with the student’s own lecture notes and the study of selected chapters from the textbooks listed in the bibliography, as well as scientific articles and contributions specified by the Professor during classes – are sufficient for exam preparation.

Cerreti, C., Marconi M., Sellari, P. (2024). Spazi e poteri. Geografia politica, geografia economica, geopolitica. Laterza. (In the absence of comprehensive notes, students are required to refers to these sections of the book: II, III, IV, V).

Boria, E. (2026). L’analisi geopolitica. Basi teoriche e guida operativa. Carocci Editore. (In the absence of comprehensive notes, students are supposed to refer to this book, in particular: chapters II, III, IV [excepted 4.5), V, VI, VII).

Vitale A. (2025). Verso una nuova geopolitica. Considerazioni sulla sfida della chiarezza teorica, nella complessità del nuovo millennio. Documenti Geografici, 249-272.

FOR NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS

Cerreti, C., Marconi M., Sellari, P. (2024). Spazi e poteri. Geografia politica, geografia economica, geopolitica. Laterza. (The whole book is required, in particular sections II, III, IV, V).

Vitale A. (2025). Verso una nuova geopolitica. Considerazioni sulla sfida della chiarezza teorica, nella complessità del nuovo millennio. Documenti Geografici, 249-272.

And one volume to be selected from the following list:

Giannuli, A. (2024). Geopolitica - Comprendere il nuovo ordine mondiale. Ponte alle Grazie. (The whole book is required).

Boria, E. (2026). L’analisi geopolitica. Basi teoriche e guida operativa. Carocci Editore. (Only the “Theorical Part”: pp. 31- 188).

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

ALBERTO DE SANCTIS (President)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

The lectures will be held in the second semester and will begin in February

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam will be oral.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The exam will allow to evaluate the mastery and deepening of knowledge, the ability to use the skills developed. The evaluation criteria are the quality of the exposition, the correct use of the appropriate vocabulary, the capacity for critical analysis, also on possible cases discussed. Any group projects, although presented during classes, constitute an integral part of the oral examination.