This course will be an examination of the theory and practice of grand strategy– the economic, diplomatic, and military policies states adopt in pursue of their interests – in both historical and contemporary contexts.  Over the course of the semester, the following types of questions will be addressed:  What exactly is “grand strategy”?  Does the concept, and the way states formulate it, vary from era to era?  What forces determine a state's choice of grand strategy?  What political, psychological, and cultural factors lead states to choose well, and choose badly? 

This course will be a seminar-style investigation of some of the major issues in international security.  It will serve as a broad introduction to the field, examining both traditional and non-traditional aspects of security and critically engaging some classic – and some new – arguments about the relationship between people, states and war.

Research Interests

International politics, US foreign policy, and grand strategy.

Curriculum Vitae