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Reviewed book: "Security Studies: An Applied Introduction", 1st Edition (2024) - edited by Norma Rossi and Malte Riemann
Book review by Nina de Martin
Security Studies: An Applied Introduction, edited by Norma Rossi (Associate Lecturer in International Relations at the University of St Andrews) and Malte Riemann (Assistant Professor in Contemporary Armed Conflict, Leiden University), offers a comprehensive examination of today’s global security, integrating a broad range of theories, practices and debates. Featuring 24 chapters by leading scholars in the field, the book spans from traditional state-centric paradigms to the complexities of non-state threats and human security. Its chapters reflect shifts from Cold War bipolarity to today's multipolar world, addressing globalisation, technology and transnational challenges.
A distinguishing feature of the book is that it bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications, exploring the evolving landscape of security and addressing both traditional and emerging threats such as, but not limited to, cyber warfare, environmental issues and terrorism. To this end, the volume is structured into two distinct parts, one focusing on the theoretical foundations, the other on specific challenges.
Part I, titled Whose Security? History, Theories, and Institutions, comprises six chapters that lay the theoretical and institutional foundations for the concept of security. This section traces the evolution of security from a narrow military-focused concept to a more inclusive framework. It begins with an introduction to the concept’s historical development, which is crucial for understanding the broader context of modern security concerns.
The presented theories (realism, liberalism, constructivism and critical theories) offer robust frameworks for analysing state behaviour and international conflicts. The examination of state roles is particularly compelling, highlighting the delicate balance states must strike between protecting national interests and adapting to global changes.
The discussion on diplomacy as a tool for security is especially enriching. It highlights how negotiation and dialogue can serve as critical mechanisms for conflict prevention and crisis management. The analysis of military strategies captures the dynamic interplay between traditional doctrines and technological advancements – although more explicit examples of recent military applications could have perhaps provided a more grounded perspective.
Part II, titled Contemporary Challenges and New Dimensions, includes eighteen chapters that address a broad spectrum of modern security issues. The chapters begin with a focus on human security, emphasising the necessity of protecting individuals from non-traditional threats like poverty, health crises and human rights violations. This approach broadens the traditional scope of security, making a strong case for a more holistic understanding of what security entails.
Economic security is analysed in depth, illustrating how economic instability and resource scarcity can undermine both national and global security. The discussion is timely, though the analysis would benefit from incorporating more current examples of how recent economic crises have impacted security dynamics. On the other hand, environmental security receives thoughtful treatment, highlighting how climate change and environmental degradation can contribute to conflicts.
The subsequent examination of energy security is particularly engaging, as it delves into the geopolitical intricacies of energy resources and the risks associated with fossil fuel dependence. Chapters on terrorism and organised crime offer deep insights into how these issues intersect with state stability, presenting a hard-hitting analysis of their complexities. Equally timely is the exploration of technological impacts on security – including cybersecurity and the ethical implications of surveillance and autonomous systems.
Moving forward, migration and health security are addressed with a balanced perspective, reflecting on their implications for national security while considering humanitarian concerns. The discussions on identity and gender in security are poignant, advocating for more inclusive and sensitive approaches to understanding how these factors influence security experiences. The emphasis on security sector reform highlights the need for effective governance of military and police institutions, providing a crucial lens on institutional change.
The critical examination of emerging digital threats in cybersecurity is particularly noteworthy, as it addresses such a pressing issue in today's interconnected world. Revisiting environmental security towards the end, the volume underlines the need for sustainable security strategies.
The chapters on security and development effectively tie together the different themes of the book, showing how development policies can foster stability in vulnerable regions. Consistently with the stated focus on applications, the final chapters provide practical insights into implementing security strategies, offering real-world examples and lessons from security operations. This forward-thinking perspective encourages readers to think adaptively about future security challenges, underscoring the book's relevance in addressing contemporary and emerging issues.
It is safe to say that Security Studies is comprehensive in its coverage; however, its focus on traditional state-centric perspectives could overshadow non-Western or alternative viewpoints, potentially limiting the book’s applicability to diverse contexts. While the volume excels in providing a broad overview, future editions could benefit from expanding towards more inclusive perspectives.
Nonetheless, overall, Security Studies offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to global security, integrating diverse theoretical perspectives and covering both traditional military security and contemporary issues such as cyber and environmental threats. The inclusion of practical case studies is indeed useful in bridging theory and practice, while contributions from leading experts in the field add depth and authority to the discussions. Its comprehensive coverage of evolving security dynamics makes it a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners, offering a thorough and diverse exploration of modern security challenges.
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