The historical, sociological, and normative dimensions of modern war, with a view to explaining, controlling, and perhaps eliminating this ancient institution will be examined.  The study identifies historical and comparative patterns and trends in the causes, characteristics, and consequences of war since the fifteenth century, highlighting the complex relationships among armed conflict, cultural norms, social institutions, political economy, and technological change.  Students will review various theories of the determinants of war; approaches to its prevention and control; the moral and legal aspects of contemporary war, including decisions to resort to war; and the principles embodied in the "just war theory" as applied to current issues of war and peace.

Joseph P. Smaldone, Ph.D., Northwestern University; Adjunct Professor of Liberal Studies, Georgetown University.