War and Politics

This course provides an examination of the intersection between political ends and military means. This includes an overview of theories of military strategy and combat tactics including challenges related to terrorism, insurgency and counter-insurgency. The bulk of the class will cover, in depth, historical details of specific conflicts from the Peloponnesian War through the recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Detailed discussion of the evolution of specific weapon systems and their impact on military tactics will be included. Student will be required to watch several films as part of the course requirements.