This unit provides an introduction to security studies, a field of inquiry that examines the political processes through which people seek security within the realm of international politics. The unit adopts a historical approach to the examination of this subject: we shall consider how our understandings of security have changed over time, which types of political actors have been most responsible for the maintenance of security, and what types of strategies these actors have adopted in their pursuit of security. Thus, this unit offers students the opportunity to examine some of the most important issues facing the international political system today.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.