Senior Colloquium: Big Powers and Small Wars
CSS 391
Fall 2024
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01
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This course examines the international politics, theory, and logic of wars that see big powers wage wars of conquest against smaller powers. It explores and applies scholarly works of theory and analyzes historical case studies to gain a deeper understanding of how and why weaker belligerents can often achieve their political aims when facing stronger adversaries. Students will analyze the contradictions that can make these wars of asymmetry difficult for stronger states. The seminar discussions will develop a keener grasp of the politics and logic that inhere in conflicts where the weak fight defensive wars against the strong. This interdisciplinary colloquium intersects international relations, conflict studies history, and theory. This course will improve students' knowledge in international security studies and hone their critical analysis skills. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
SBS GOVT |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (CSS) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available |
| SECTION 01 |
Major Readings: Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore
Ivan Arreguin-Toft, HOW THE WEAK WIN WARS. (ISBN: 10 0-521-54869-1)
Robert B. Asprey, WAR IN THE SHADOWS: THE GUERRILLA IN HISTORY. (ISBN: 0-688-12815-7)
Stephen Biddle, NONSTATE WARFARE: THE MILITARY METHODS OF GUERRILLAS, WARLORDS, AND MILITIAS. (ISBN: 978-0-691-20751-3)
Gil Merom, HOW DEMOCRACIES LOSE WARS. (ISBN: 0-521-80403-5)
Monographs, articles, and book chapters
Students may use earlier editions of the texts if available.
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Examinations and Assignments:
Two analytical essays during the colloquium and one group presentation at the end of the colloquium that serves as a final exam. |
Additional Requirements and/or Comments:
This course is required for all CSS Seniors and is only open to CSS Seniors. |
| Instructor(s): Cassidy,Robert Times: ...W.F. 02:50PM-04:10PM; Location: PAC301; |
Permission of Instructor Required
Enrollment capacity: 30 | Permission of instructor will be granted during the drop/add period. Students must submit either a ranked or unranked drop/add request for this course. |
| Drop/Add Enrollment Requests | | | | | |
| Total Submitted Requests: 0 | 1st Ranked: 0 | 2nd Ranked: 0 | 3rd Ranked: 0 | 4th Ranked: 0 | Unranked: 0 |
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