History in the Making

Graduate School Forum Showcase:

Are We Doomed to Repeat It?

One hundred years ago—just as Foreign Affairs was launching—“great” powers tried to exert control over smaller states. New technologies disrupted social and political life. Disease spread around the world. Economic uncertainty hovered on the horizon. Protesters marched to challenge the status quo.

As we look around, it may seem like everything old is new again. Yet, the world has changed.

Institutions—born from the turmoil of the 20th century—coordinate global responses to aggression. Scientists and businesses have systems to mobilize across borders and address crises, such as climate change and pandemics. International movements of people bring the fight for equality from local to global.

Training in international affairs, policy, and related disciplines draws on the past to inform the future. It develops the ability to recognize cultural, economic, social, environmental, and political forces at work in the world over time.

Its interdisciplinary curriculum and diverse community of people integrate differing perspectives and histories. Graduates distinguish themselves by their adaptability and flexibility.

As you search for the right degree, ask how the lessons of history link to current events in a program. Discover how students challenge traditional ideas of power. Look at how they bring different voices into the conversation. Examine how they cultivate leadership qualities in students, as well as engage current policymakers, to build the future of international relations.

The adage says that those who do not study history are doomed to repeat it. Students of international affairs and policy can lay out a new blueprint for success by learning from the past.