POLI355

The capabilities that together serve as the foundation for a nation's security are always relative to the capabilities of other nations. An understanding of the elements of national security begins with an examination of the international context within which national security must be shaped. This setting determines the security problems and prospects that face any nation and also limits the choices available. The internal structure of a nation must also be considered. The class will provide a foundation for students entering the unfamiliar terrain of questions about why, how, when, and where the U.S. should use its power to protect its values and interests. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of force or the threat to use force. The institutions, procedures, actors and elements that shape the formulation and implementation of security policy will be analyzed and evaluated.