War, State and Society since 1450
Second Semester, Monday 2pm, Tuesday 4pm
As 9/11 and its consequences show, the use of armed force in pursuit of political aims is still an important theme in human history. Theories about the past, present and future nature of warfare, it’s role in shaping the state and the world system, meet harsh reality in Iraq on a daily basis.
The course will survey war in history since the ‘gunpowder revolution’. It will look at changes in the theory and practice of war, the relationship between war and the state, the impact of new technology on war and on the development of the state, war and society and war as a key focus in relationships between states. Sections on twentieth century warfare, especially ‘low intensity warfare’ and peacekeeping are expanded to introduce key current issues.
If you have queries, call to my office in Silverdale or email me
Coursework which counts for 20% of the course mark, will be handed out in class. The coursework will involve designing a one page sized wargame of a battle from a set list. Students will work on the design in virtual teams of 4-5. Students will use the discussion forum in blackboard to collaborate on the design and testing of
the game. This has been a very successful and enjoyable coursework exercise which was the subject of a conference paper presented at AISHE-C 2008 which is available online in the publications section of mikecosgrave.com The total extent of the game design exercise– 1 page design, special rules, and forum postings, should be about 5-6 pages, which is roughly the length of a 1,500 word essay.
A copy of the handout is online. There is also a booklist, and a list of articles in JSTOR, If you are curious, there is a copy of a lecture video in 3gp format - the mobile phone video format which plays in Quicktime players, and the associated slides. The video was shot on my mobile, so it isn’t going to win any oscars, but it is a useful supplement to notes. I now try to do this for most of my classes, and post the videos on the learning management system