American Defense Policy

American Defense Policy is a crucial text for understanding the twenty-first-century battlefield and the shifting force structure. It has been a mainstay in courses on political science, international relations, military affairs, and American national security for more than 50 years. The ninth edition, published in 2020, contains 30% new content and considers questions of continuity and change in America's defense policy in the face of geopolitical tensions, rapid technological change, and terrorist violence. The book is organized into three parts: Part I examines the theories and strategies that shape America's approach to security policy, Part II dives inside the defense policy process, and Part III examines how purpose and process translate into American defense policy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2021
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

A comprehensive and insightful examination of the contemporary battlefield and the evolving force structure, this essential text equips students with the critical skills necessary to navigate the rapidly changing world they will inherit. Originally published in 1965 under the guidance of Brent Scowcroft, American Defense Policy has remained a staple in courses covering political science, international relations, military affairs, and American national security for over 50 years. In this ninth edition, which boasts approximately 30% all-new content, the book delves into the complexities of continuity and change in America's defense policy amidst a global climate characterized by geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancements, and acts of terrorism.

The book is structured into three distinct parts. Part I explores the theoretical frameworks and strategies that guide America's security policy. Part II delves into the intricacies of the defense policy process, examining the evolution of contemporary civil-military relations, the shifting nature of the military profession, and the challenges and debates surrounding budgeting, organization, and equipment. Part III examines how purpose and process manifest in American defense policy.

This invaluable and judicious text stands as a timeless introduction to the critical security challenges the United States has faced throughout its history. It pioneers new ground as a thoughtful and comprehensive starting point for understanding American defense policy and its pivotal role in shaping the world today.

Contributors to this comprehensive work include Gordon Adams, John R. Allen, Will Atkins, Deborah D. Avant, Michael Barnett, Sally Baron, Jeff J.S. Black, Jessica Blankshain, Hal Brands, Ben Buchanan, Dale C. Copeland, Everett Carl Dolman, Jeffrey Donnithorne, Daniel W. Drezner, Colin Dueck, Eric Edelman, Martha Finnemore, Lawrence Freedman, Francis Fukuyama, Michael D. Ga.

Weight: 902g
Dimension: 177 x 254 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421441481
Edition number: ninth edition