DAFF 27A05 - Strategic Studies

The course introduces students to some of the theories and concepts that form the basics of strategic studies as a distinct subfield of international relations (IR). The course presents the key ideas and themes of strategic studies, which deals with the preparation and use of military power to serve the ends of politics but also what are the means to avoid the use of force. Please note that the course is NOT directly interested in ethical and normative problems linked to the use of force. To adopt Robert Cox’s terminology, the lecture is much more Problem-Solving than Critical. That is why we do not really address notions like just wars or democratic peace. The course aims to guide students through a wide-ranging survey of theoretical and practical aspects of strategic studies. It includes sections on the uses of strategic theory, instruments of war - land, sea, and air power, cyber - and their evolution, nuclear strategy, small wars and counter-insurgency, peace operations, victory, or defense planning. The course tries to strike a balance between theoretical works and empirical material.

• An Oral Presentation (exposé) (40% of the grade) An outline of the presentation is required for the professor. Please note that you should avoid reading your presentation.
• A Final Take-Home Exam (40% of the grade). The take-home will be sent to you after the last session. You will have a few days to answer one question. The length of the exam is around 2,000 words. The questions may be on any topic seen during the semester.
• Class Participation & Discussion (20% of the grade). Your online participation in this class is extremely important. As such, class participation will constitute 20 % of your final grade. The class participation grade will derive from regular attendance and discussion and analysis. Please be aware that skipping class (unexcused absences) will impact your grade in this area.