Lynne Rienner Critical Security Studies and World Politics

Realist assumptions of security studies increasingly have been challenged by an approach that places the human being, rather than the state, at the center of security concerns. This text is an indispensable statement of the ideas of this critical security project, written by some of its leading exponents. The book is structured around three concepts - security, community, and emancipation - that arguably are central to the future shape of world politics. Each of its three parts begins with a survey of key theoretical issues, followed by an investigation of current case material. The authors emphasize that critical security is about the problems of real people in real places, and about linking theory and practice. Throughout, they address the fundamental questions at the heart of critical thinking about security. Review A spirited, passionate, and conceptually sophisticated expression of the critical studies school. The authors point to new ways of conceptualizing the world and understanding the factors and forces that are recasting the international landscape.... will be welcomed by scholars and students alike. - Fen Osler Hampson, Carleton University Synopsis Realist assumptions of security studies increasingly have been challenged by an approach that places the human being, rather than the state, at the center of security concerns. This text is an indispensable statement of the ideas of this critical security project, written by some of its leading exponents. The book is structured around three concepts - security, community, and emancipation - that arguably are central to the future shape of world politics. Each of its three parts begins with a survey of key theoretical issues, followed by an investigation of current case material. The authors emphasize that critical security is about the problems of real people in real places, and about linking theory and practice. Throughout, they address the fundamental questions at the heart of critical thinking about security. About the Author Ken Booth is E.H. Carr Professor and head of the Department of International Politics, University of Wales, Aberystwyth. His numerous publications include Strategy and Ethnocentrism, Contemporary Strategy: Theories and Policies and New Thinking About Strategy and International Security.