War in the modern world

The course seeks to provide a basic understanding of war throughout the 20th century and up to our own time. The subject will cover both theories about the cause of war, the development of warfare in the period, as well as various theories about the use of military force, or what is called military theory. In addition, the course will address various factors that influence both our view of war and the conduct of wars; such as technology, ethics and international law. The course aims to study war both as a political, military theoretical and social phenomenon. In addition, the course will place considerable emphasis on the political and societal effects of war - what about modern society does war(s) change?

A candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome according to the course curriculum, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

The candidate has

• in-depth knowledge of what war is.
• knowledge of methodological challenges in the historical study of war and warfare.
• in-depth knowledge of the development of war and warfare from the year 1900 until our time.
• knowledge of theories about why and how wars come about.
• in-depth knowledge of various theories for how war can be won (military theory)
• knowledge of the influence of technology, ethics, and international law on the perception of war and warfare itself and its development over the past 110 years.

Skills

The candidate should

• be able to assess and analyze the causes of war and different forms of warfare and its effect on different societies.
• have the ability to apply historical methods to study various wars, their implementation and their effects.

The course is taught with digital lectures and digital seminars/colloquiums. Other digital teaching material, such as films and podcasts, will be made available.

In addition to the digital teaching, two physical sessions are planned during the semester, each lasting 2-3 days.