Course overview
This course aims to introduce students to the fundamental debates, theories and essential concepts in the field of security studies. It does so by surveying the central axioms of international security in the context of transnational security dilemmas. The course begins by exploring the concept of 'security' as it relates to sovereignty, the state, and the safety of humans. This concept is traced in case studies through wars, conflicts, emancipatory struggles, colonialism, the Cold War and the establishment of international system. Discussion of these issues is framed by prevailing debates - of (neo)realism, liberalism and constructivism - over the status and value of international institutions and global security norms.
- Core Concepts
- Normative Frameworks
- Contemporary Global Challenges
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate career readiness and leadership skills appropriate for beginning professional practice, including lifelong learning skills characterised by academic rigour, self-direction and intellectual independence
- Participate in group discussions about contested concepts with confidence and with tolerance for other points of view
- Navigate the large amounts of research material available in this subject through both traditional academic sources and through the use of information technology
- Show familiarity with research methodologies applicable to the study of global security challenges and be able to apply these to empirical cases
- Demonstrate understanding of concepts, theories and debates in International Security
- Critically engage with contemporary issues in International Security