Civil-Military Relations and American Security Policy

36595You are required to write a 3-5 page (not including the cover and reference pages) position paper thoroughly discussing the material presented during the week. APA citations are expected, an abstract is not.

The readings and learning activities in this module examined the nexus of civil-military relations and the “holy trinity” identified by Clausewitz; here you turn to an in-depth analysis of this relationship in American politics. For this, and all position paper assignments, it is crucial to base your opinions and arguments on research.

According to Clausewitz, war is a “continuation of politics by other means” and victory on the battlefield is dependent upon a effective working relationship among the ‘holy trinity of the government, military and people. In your analysis, include:

– What factors would you identify as America’s greatest virtues regarding this trinity and the conduct of statecraft?
– What elements of the relationship would you classify as being detrimental to ensuring national security?
– What recommendations can you prescribe regarding improving the functioning of these bonds among the trinity?

Read:

Required
Sarkesian, S., Williams, J. & Cimbala, S. (2012). US national security: Policymakers, processes, and politics. (5th ed.). Boulder, CO: L. Rienner.
Chapter 12 – “Empowering the People” (pp. 229-256)
Chapter 13 – “Civil-Military Relations” (pp. 257-272)
Module Notes: Engaging the American People and Civil – Military Relations