PLSC 380ACivil Military Relations

Catalog

This course examines the intricate relationships among the military, civilian elites, and civil society across diverse political systems. It explores the military's role in politics, the conditions influencing civilian control of the armed forces, and the interactions between the military and citizens. Key topics include the theory and practice of military professionalism, the dynamics of military intervention in politics, and the implications of these phenomena for political stability and governance. Students will analyze theoretical frameworks and empirical case studies from various regions, spanning democracies and authoritarian regimes, to develop a comparative understanding of civil-military relations. By the end of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical role civil-military relations play in shaping political outcomes.