Reading Check-in: Security

Security depends on how people perceive threats

Depending on the context, perceived threats change over time.

Security in terms of nation-state

Protecting the state against external threats such as invasions or military attacks.

Security in terms of individuals

Protecting people from threats to their wellbeing

How does liberalism challenge realism?

By stressing the importance of international institutions and international law in shaping behavior (cooperation and institutions).

How does constructivism challenge realism?

By stating that international order is defined by identities that result in history and experience (norms and social meanings).

Main assumptions of realism

The state plays a big role in international politics, the international system is characterized by anarchy, states pursue national interests, and states are forced to engage in realpolitik strategies.

Human Security

The protection of individuals and alleviating human suffering.

Why was this approach more prominent after the Cold War?

It was recognized that threats weren’t just limited to military threats.

What kinds of threats it asks us to take seriously?

Poverty and hunger

Why do scholars criticize the concept of human security as too broad?

Because of the danger that labeling any problem as a security issue. Such issues might invite outside military intervention if they are treated as urgent security threats.

Defensive Strategy

Protecting individuals through broader security or international cooperation.

Neo-conservative approach

emphasizes on military action and is more offensive.

Iraq War

Used to exemplify the fact that security policies have untended consequences.

Two consequences

Military intervention could foster instability and that threat assessments have the possibility to be wrong.

How has digital globalization change the relationship between security and privacy?

With the emergence of constant surveillance and censorship, there has been an increased concern regarding the internet security and privacy of the people. The NSA surveillance program showed how governments collect digital data.