Science, Weapons and Arms Control

Module description

This course explores how science—from chemistry and nuclear physics to cyber capabilities, nanotechnologies, artificial intelligence, genomic technologies and cutting-edge biotechnologies—transforms the nature, political stakes and impacts of warfare. Key questions considered include: How can the opportunities and risks of scientific advances be identified and assessed? How do they enhance or undermine peace and security? Who gains, who loses? Do emerging technologies carry the potential to disrupt the existing order or be a tool to stabilize it? How can emerging technologies be most effectively regulated?

Assessment details

Presentation (25%)

Group Exercise (25%)

2,000-Word Essay (50%)

Educational aims & objectives

The aims of the module are to:

• introduce students to the evolving landscape of security issues and how they intersect with science and technology
• develop a systematic understanding of the relevant concepts and theories from Security Studies, and encourage a critical awareness of the theoretical and empirical debates surrounding them
• promote the capacity for critical evaluation, independent judgment and communication at a level commensurate with taught postgraduate study
• familiarise students with the basic science underlying important contemporary issues in international politics
• foster the skills required for critical analysis of the implications of scientific and technological developments on security
• provide a framework for original analysis of the historical and contemporary role of scientific developments in shaping security problems

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will have:

• the ability to critically analyse technical claims made in the field of international security and the ability to provide politically-informed technical analysis in the field of science and security
• critically engaged with key concepts and theories used in security studies, and applied those concepts and theories to an analysis of current and historical security issues
• carried out original, critical analysis of the impact of scientific and technological developments on security, using knowledge of the science involved and tools drawn from IR theory and security studies
• practised a range of intellectual, practical and transferable skills, through participation in classes and through the preparation and submission of course work

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.