PLT2850

Defended to death? Arms control and world politics

Andrew Butfoy

8 points * 3 hours per week * Second semester * Clayton

Objectives This subject has three objectives: (a) to provide a sense of the historical context required for understanding developments in arms control and disarmament; (b) to introduce students to the most important international arms control agreements; and (c) to show how arms control and disarmament measures can be placed into the context of broader concerns for peace and world order.

Synopsis This subject examines some of the ideas and policies which have been developed to facilitate the emergence of a less militarised form of world politics. The subject is divided into four sections. First, the general issues involved in efforts to variously rationalise, manage, critique and curb the arms race are introduced. Second, attempts to restrain the proliferation of nuclear, chemical, biological and conventional weapons are outlined. Third, the arms control implications of `common' and `cooperative' security are discussed. This section will sketch and explore the nature of the `security dilemma', `confidence building measures' and `non-offensive defence'. Finally, the prospects for various degrees of demilitarisation are discussed in the light of developments in world politics.

Assessment One essay (3000 words): 50% * Examination (3 hours): 50%

Recommended texts

Butfoy A Common security and strategic reform: A critical analysis Macmillan, 1997

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