Security Studies

Instructors

HENG Yee Kuang

Term / Language / Credits

S1S2 / English / 2

Objectives

The aim of this module is to introduce students to key concepts and issues that constitute the agenda of Security Studies today. It stresses different approaches to understanding security; and the key ongoing transitions and drivers within the global system, which has led to a mix of both ‘old’ and ‘new’ security challenges to be addressed. Various historical and theoretical debates on what might be termed ‘classical’ or ‘old’ security concepts in the 21st century are examined, such as the role of Great Powers, the Security Dilemma, Arms Races; territorial disputes and geo-political competition. At the same time, it also enables students to understand current debates about the impact of globalization on security through studying issues such as trans-national terrorism; the spread of infectious diseases and ethnic conflicts. These may be loosely labelled the ‘new’ security agenda. It is anticipated that students will develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the complexities of the global system in the 21st century. Through prescribed academic writings, students are directed to the linkage between emerging global events and to think critically about how the global security agenda of the new millennium will be shaped by drivers of change such as globalisation and major power transitions.
The following outcomes are emphasized:
1. An ability to approach both theoretical debates and foreign policy outcomes with diverse analytical tools
2. The ability to collate and evaluate arguments from different sources and perspectives
3. The ability to formulate and articulate views coherently in written and oral forms
4. Critical thinking, analytical and reading skills

Keywords

Globalisation of Security, Global Risks, Terrorism, Disease, Great Power competition, Territorial disputes, Arms Races

Schedule

Week 1: What is Security? Changing security agendas old and new
Week 2: Approaches to Security: theories, frameworks and concepts
Week 3: Great Power Conflict and the international system
Week 4: Balance of Power politics
Week 5: The Security Dilemma and Arms Racing
Week 6: Geo-politics and Territorial disputes
Week 7: Spheres of influence and Empires
Week 8: The ‘soft’ power competition era
Week 9: Trans-national terrorism and the World Risk Society
Week 10: Globalisation of infectious diseases
Week 11: Global financial crises and terrorist financing
Week 12: Ethnic conflicts and humanitarian intervention
Week 13: Cyber security

Teaching Methods

The instructor will first provide an overview at each session through a lecture, followed by an interactive seminar format where student groups will participate and take responsibility for designing classroom activities,

Grading

Class Participation (20%); Student-designed Activities (20%); Two Short Reaction essays based on readings (60%)

Required Textbook

Not specific

Reference Books

Sample readings:
Collins, A, Contemporary Security Studies, (Oxford University Press, 2013)
Hughes, C & YM Lai, Security Studies; A reader, (Routledge, 2011)
Mearsheimer, J, The Tragedy of Great Power Politics, (NY: Norton, 2001, updated edition 2014)
Burgess, JP (ed) The Routledge Handbook of New Security Studies (London, Routledge, 2010)
Heng, YK, War as Risk Management: Strategy and Conflict in an age of Globalised Risks, (London; Routledge, 2006)

More detailed reading lists will be introduced during the first class.

Notes on Taking the Course

Basic background in International Relations useful but NOT required

Related Resources

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