Theory and Cyberspace
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
College
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Major
National Security Studies
Session Number
2
Location
RM 218
Start Date
5-21-2015 3:00 PM
End Date
5-21-2015 3:20 PM
Abstract
International Relations (IR) theories have been useful in the past for examining world events. Rather than looking at a world event and trying to comprehend every factor that can be analyzed, we can use various IR theories to gain a more focused perspective, and therefore a better understanding. But with the advent of cyber security issues and cyber warfare, will these same theories be as useful, or will they have issues when applied to this new domain? When examining the applicability of two major IR theories, deterrence theory and compellence theory, we find that certain theories have major problems with this unique dimension, while others thrive. Indeed, to apply deterrence theory to this new area has multiple problems, which tend to be unsolvable. Compellence theory, on the other hand, enjoys a number of benefits when used in cyberspace. Such a finding can drastically change policies, and alter how nations, friend or foe, interact with each other.
Theory and Cyberspace
RM 218
International Relations (IR) theories have been useful in the past for examining world events. Rather than looking at a world event and trying to comprehend every factor that can be analyzed, we can use various IR theories to gain a more focused perspective, and therefore a better understanding. But with the advent of cyber security issues and cyber warfare, will these same theories be as useful, or will they have issues when applied to this new domain? When examining the applicability of two major IR theories, deterrence theory and compellence theory, we find that certain theories have major problems with this unique dimension, while others thrive. Indeed, to apply deterrence theory to this new area has multiple problems, which tend to be unsolvable. Compellence theory, on the other hand, enjoys a number of benefits when used in cyberspace. Such a finding can drastically change policies, and alter how nations, friend or foe, interact with each other.
