International And Security Studies Internationa... Apr 2026
: Analysis often relied on realist theories, viewing international politics as a struggle for power in an anarchic system. 2. Widening and Deepening the Field
Since the 1990s, scholars have expanded the definition of security beyond military force, a process often called "widening" (new sectors) and "deepening" (new levels).
Historically, the field was dominated by during the Cold War. International and Security Studies Internationa...
: Research now includes economic stability, energy security, and environmental threats like climate change.
: Post-colonial and gender-based studies challenge the "Eurocentric" history of the field and highlight the security needs of the Global South. ORIGINS, DEVELOPMENT AND CONTENDING APPROACHES : Analysis often relied on realist theories, viewing
: Core topics included nuclear deterrence, bipolarity, and conventional military threats.
: Research primarily centered on the state as the main actor and the preservation of national sovereignty. Historically, the field was dominated by during the Cold War
: The focus has shifted toward protecting individuals from hunger, disease, and repression, rather than just protecting borders.