Security as Politics: Beyond the State of Exception

Andrew W. Neal's book investigates security politics from the 1980s to the present day, challenging current debates in critical security studies and developing an original reassessment of the security/politics relationship.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2020
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Andrew W. Neal delves into the intricate realm of security politics, spanning from the 1980s to the present day, through a comprehensive and meticulously researched approach. By conducting extensive archival research and engaging in insightful interviews with prominent politicians, Neal endeavors to unravel the evolving nature of security politics and its profound impact on global affairs. His insightful analysis unveils how the concept and practice of security have undergone a remarkable transformation, challenging prevailing narratives and shaping the trajectory of international relations.

In his book, Neal offers a fresh and innovative perspective on the security/politics relationship. He challenges the conventional understanding of security as solely a matter of state protection and instead broadens its scope to encompass a range of actors, including non-state actors, international organizations, and private corporations. Neal argues that these diverse stakeholders play an increasingly significant role in shaping security outcomes and that a holistic approach is necessary to address the complex challenges of the modern world.

One of the key insights of Neal's work is his recognition of the interconnectedness of security and politics. He argues that security issues cannot be isolated from broader political, economic, and social concerns and that a comprehensive understanding of security requires a multidisciplinary approach. Neal explores how security concerns are intertwined with issues such as economic development, human rights, and environmental sustainability, highlighting the need for a more integrated and holistic approach to addressing these complex challenges.

Through his research, Neal identifies several key trends and developments that have shaped the security landscape over the past few decades. He examines how the Cold War era influenced the development of security institutions and strategies, how the rise of globalization has created new security challenges, and how the emergence of new technologies such as cyber warfare and biotechnology has transformed the nature of security threats and responses. Neal also explores how security politics is influenced by regional and global power dynamics, how international institutions such as the United Nations and the European Union play a role in shaping security policies, and how the media and public opinion shape the perception and understanding of security issues.

In conclusion, Andrew W. Neal's book offers a groundbreaking reassessment of security politics, challenging prevailing narratives and providing a fresh perspective on the evolving nature of security. Through his comprehensive research and insightful interviews, Neal demonstrates how security politics is shaped by a range of complex factors, including state and non-state actors, international institutions, and public opinion. His work highlights the need for a more integrated and holistic approach to addressing the complex challenges of the modern world and provides valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of security and politics.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474450935