Description
What does security mean and when did it emerge as object of unified, centralized state policy? When was security not only considered to be a matter of national security, but also of international security? In this course, we will historicize the concept through time and embed various security thoughts and philosophies in their respective timeframes to approach the phenomenon through its evolutions. During the first lecture we will discuss some of the theoretical approaches explaining for the changes in what is considered to be a security issue and different ideas about how societies should deal with security issues. The next lectures will focus on specific security fields and will be discussed and analyzed in detail to understand the changing concepts and practices. The course provides an overview of security historical perspectives in the contemporary era and how important events have shaped corresponding developments in the field of security studies, which cuts across disciplinary boundaries and can be viewed from different angles. We will mostly concentrate on the Western tradition and more specifically on Europe.
Course objectives
Students will obtain advanced knowledge and understanding of the historical dimensions of security.
Students will be able to address questions (threat perceptions, security conceptions, and security regimes) and define, analyse, and apply theoretical insights in the field of security.
Students will develop an academic toolbox useful to approach both historical and current developments in the field of security.
Students will be able to grasp the complex and evolving phenomenon of security by focusing on broad societal and political transformations and the changing relations between citizens and the state.
Students will be able to build, present, and defend well-grounded and concise arguments by posing a research question in a paper which will historicise one situation.
By studying security theories and developments in their historical contexts, students will develop critical thoughts on and greater awareness of the ever-changing nature of security, past and present.
Timetable
On the right side of programme front page of the E-guide you will find links to the website and timetables, uSis and Blackboard.
Mode of instruction
The course consists of 7 lectures.
Participation in lectures, discussions and exercises is required in order to obtain a grade. One lecture may be missed. Being absent more than once may likely lead to expulsion from the course.
Course Load
Total study load 5 EC x 28 hrs. = 140 hrs., of which:
contact hours: 3 hrs. per week x 7 weeks = 21 hrs.
self-study hours: 119 hrs.
Assessment method
Written Exam (25%)
The midterm written examination will comprise 25% of the final grade.Final Paper (75%)
The final research paper is an essay that will comprise 75% of the final grade.
Compensation rule: Only assessments with the weight of 30% and lower are compensable. This means that one does not have to pass an assessment if it weighs less than 30% in order to pass the course, if the average of all assessments combined is at least a 5.5. In addition, assignments with less than 30% are not re-sitable, meaning that if one failed an assessment of less than 30%, one is not allowed to redo it. The resit takes the same form.
Blackboard
Blackboard
The corresponding Blackboard course will become available one week prior to the first lecture.
Reading list
See syllabus.
Registration
Use both uSis and Blackboard to register for every course.
Register for every course and workgroup via uSis. Some courses and workgroups have a limited number of participants, so register on time (before the course starts). In uSis you can access your personal schedule and view your results. Registration in uSis is possible from four weeks before the start of the course.
Also register for every course in Blackboard. Important information about the course is posted there.