The course provides an advanced understanding of issues in international security since the end of the Cold War. It focuses on security in relation to issues of force and power in international relations, and is placed within the relevant theoretical and empirical contexts of contemporary debates. The module provides an advanced understanding of core issues of security studies as traditionally conceived. Examined are the conceptual approaches to traditional, `military security, such as explanations of war, deterrence, arms races and arms control, balance of power theories, alliance formation and management, collective security and the changing character of war in the 21st Century.
The module also examines how critical security studies set forth alternative conceptions of security. In addition it examines new, broader and emerging security issues such as health and the environment. On completion of the course the student will have developed advanced research and analytic skills, an understanding of the wide-ranging nature of security studies, an appreciation of the historical importance of security issues, and an insight into future problems and debates that will affect the stability of the 21st century world order. Each week, the tutor will provide a brief overview of the topic under discussion, followed by a focused discussion of key related readings. From half way through the first semester discussions will be student-led. Each week one or two students (depending on class size) will present a brief introduction and overview of the core readings for that week, followed by focused discussion based around key questions identified by the presenters.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate a basic knowledge of issues related to war, peace and security within contemporary international society
Use the relevant theoretical frameworks to analyse issues of war, peace and security in different parts of the world
Demonstrate a sufficient understanding of the key concepts in international security
Assessment
33051-02 : Essay - 2000 words : Coursework (50%)
33051-04 : Examination : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (50%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment: 1 x 2000 word essay (50%) 1 x 90 min exam (50%) Reassessment: resit of failed piece or pieces of assessment
