Political Science 391E - S-Rules of War

This course evaluates the role of international ethical norms in regulating the practice of organized political violence. We will be gin by considering how to think analytically about the effects of ethical norms on international policy-making. We next consider the origins and evolving dynamics of the laws of war, explore why political actors so often violate these rules and the conditions under which they follow them, and examine the political and ethical dilemmas involved in enforcing them. Specific topics covered include weapons bans, terrorism, protection of noncombatants, and war crimes tribunals. The course will conclude with an assessment of continuity and change in global security norms post 9/11.

Open to Senior, Junior and Sophomore POLISCI majors. Instructor can be reached at: charli@polsci.umass.edu