module specification

Human Security is an approach to politics that focuses on the well-being of individuals and communities. Its particular focus is to identify and understand threats to peoples’ security that are not confined to armed conflict, not understood at the level of the state, and not encompassed by the general understanding of national security.
The goal of this module is to introduce a range of issues that have been construed as relevant to security in recent years, and which have changed and expanded the notion of security within the study of international relations. In the post-war period, and particularly since the end of the Cold War, it has become apparent that safety, peace and the pursuit of prosperity can be threatened in many ways other than by armed conflict.
This module will explore the concept of security as it is understood in international relations discipline. What has been the rationale for the development of a distinct concept of ‘human security’? What are the implications of the concept of human security for our understanding of security in the international system?  It will then examine the application of the concept to substantive problems and policy areas. These include the poverty and inequality, gendered violence, the impact of environmental degradation, food insecurity, mass population movement, human trafficking and international crime. Finally, it will assess the impact of the concept on the strategies and policies of international organisations and states.

There no pre-requisites.

• What is Human Security?: Freedom from fear and want
• The gendering of Security
• Human Security and Development: poverty and inequality
• Environmental Degradation and Climate Security
• Food and Security
• Migration, Shelter and Hospitality
• Disease and security
• Operationalising Human Security: the UN, the EU and Canada

All learning objectives are applicable to the indicative syllabus.

Learning and teaching combine recorded lectures and webinars. The module makes extensive use of blended learning, primarily through its dedicated Weblearn site, including interactive use of the mail and discussion tools, module information, lecture PowerPoint slides and full reading lists.

Students will be required to engage in the set activities, to prepare in advance by attempting assigned readings, to complete coursework by deadlines, and to reflect and act on the feedback they receive.

Reflective and independent learning is encouraged through lectures, discussion groups, guided reading, and the research and writing of the essay and the presentation. As well as independent learning, students will be expected to work together as partners, in co-created spaces, learning from each other and building on their studies

At the end of this module students will:

1. Gain an understanding of debates about the meaning of security within international relations and the rationale for the development of a concept of ‘human security’

2. Be able to demonstrate  a detailed knowledge and understanding of the human security debate in relation to specific problems and policy issues ranging from the environmental change through food insecurity to migration and international crime

3. Be able to demonstrate an understanding of the extent and limits of the impact of human security perspectives on the policies of the UN, EU and key states

4. Develop critical abilities to analyse primary and secondary resources focused on human security.

5. Enhance the capacity to work independently, demonstrating initiative, self-organisation and time-management, as well as co-operating with other students as partners to achieve common goals.

There are two summative assessments for this module:

1. 3000 word essay. This will constitute 75% of the overall assessment. Titles to be provided by tutor
2. Presentation. This will constitute 25% of the overall assessment.

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