M7D1: National Security Budgeting in an Era of Austerity

38827M7D1: National Security Budgeting in an Era of Austerity

We have examined the policy process for budgeting in national security and the fiscal consequences of the “Long War” and the 2008 economic crisis. In this activity we will discuss and debate America’s options for national security in an era of austerity.
After completing your required readings, you should be ready to participate in our discussion activity. Be sure to include at least one or two academic references/resources on your initial posting and observe APA citation format.
When you have completed this activity, you will be able to:
• Discuss contemporary national security policy and grand strategy economic and fiscal environments (CO#1 and CO#5)
Initial Posting
America’s contemporary economic status, including massive debt, underscores arguments for reducing the size of the armed forces. Despite this fiscal reality, some observers insist that defense spending needs to increase in order to match the uncertainties and emergent threats of the 21st century. At the core of this debate are questions about economic capabilities and fiscal realities which are countered with claims about the risks of reducing defense spending in a dangerous and swiftly changing world.
Please respond to the following in response to the debate:
• Which side of this debate do you agree with?
• What advantages can you specify as resulting from this course of action?
• What negative consequences could result from this policy direction?