U.S. National Security Policy 2104-ERASMUS-USSE
This course is structured into four key components: an introductory section, three thematic modules addressing distinct dimensions of U.S. national security, and a concluding section that explores emerging strategic challenges.
Introduction: The course begins with an overview of the conceptual landscape surrounding U.S. national security. Topics include definitional debates, the evolving global environment, institutional frameworks, and an analysis of post-Cold War security strategies.
Module I: Political and Military Dimensions
This module examines the strategic and geopolitical underpinnings of U.S. security policy. Focus areas include:
Bilateral and multilateral relations with allies and adversaries
Counterterrorism and homeland security
Military capabilities and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD)
Irregular warfare, including military intervention and counterinsurgency operations
Module II: Economic Dimensions
This prat of the course explores the intersection of economic factors and national security. Topics addressed include:
Globalization and the international political economy (IPE)
U.S. economic stability and interdependence within the global system
The impact of global economic crises on national security imperatives
Module III: Social and Environmental Dimensions
The final module investigates societal and environmental contributors to security vulnerabilities. Issues covered include:
Migration and demographic shifts
Ethnic and religious conflict dynamics in relation to U.S. national security
Climate crisis and environmental degradation and their implications for strategic planning
Identification of emerging threats to U.S. national security
Conclusion/Summary: The course culminates in a critical discussion on the evolving nature of security threats and the formulation of strategies to address future challenges facing the United States.
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
After finishing this course students should:
understand main problems and issues in the U.S. National Security area
have a background knowledge in various areas of the U.S. National Security
become familiar with a variety of sources on the U.S. National Security available in selected literature and through the Internet
develop the capacity for analytical and critical thinking
develop the ability to formulate reasoned conclusions
develop writing skills (student should: use the available resources properly, be able to synthesize ideas from different sources in formulating valid thesis statements, know how to incorporate texts into writing, including citing sources and creating bibliographies)
Assessment criteria
1. Class participation. This includes regular attendance as well as meaningful participation in class discussions. No more than two unexcused absences will be allowed in this course (one double session).
2. Students’ project (individual or group - depending on the number of students attending this course; it covers any form of students’ engagement in the class activities prepared and executed by students – presentation, case study, work in groups, discussion etc.; the project may be presented in class or issued in the form of written paper).
3. Final quiz
AI usage:
AI is used to complete certain elements of the task, with students providing discussion or commentary on the AI-generated content. This level requires critical engagement with Al generated content and evaluating its output.
You will use Al to complete specified tasks in your assessment. Any Al created content must be cited.
Practical placement
none
Bibliography
1. Basic literature:
• National Security Strategies of the US
• J. Goldstein and J. Pevehouse, International Relations, (you may find this book in the Main UW library - BUW)
• P.D. Williams, Security Studies. An Introduction, Routledge, 2018 (or later edition), or Williams P.D., Security Studies. An Introduction, Routledge, 2013 (or later edition)
https://www.academia.edu/25723482/Paul_D_Williams_Security_Studies_An_Introduction
• A. A. Jordan, W.J. Taylor Jr., M.J. Meese, S.C. Nielsen, American National Security, The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, 2018 (or later edition)
2. Selected articles not covered in this syllabus and to be send by email.
3. Reports of the prominent American and European think tanks and research institutes.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: