The Hegemonic Illusion? Traditional Strategic Studies In Context

• Published in: Security dialogue Vol. 41; no. 6; pp. 639 - 648
• Main Author: MILLER, STEVEN E.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England SAGE Publications Ltd 01-12-2010; SAGE Publications
• Subjects: Cold wars; Conflict; Dynamic tests; Dynamics; Evolution; Government; Hegemony; Illusions; International relations; International security; Lenses; Military strategy; Narratives; Perception; Pits; Research trends; School security; Security; Security studies; Special Section on "The Evolution of International Security Studies"; Strategic studies; Superpowers; Traditionalism; international security studies; security; Copenhagen School; insecurity
• ISSN: 0967-0106; 1460-3640
• DOI: 10.1177/0967010610388212

At the heart of Buzan & Hansen's (2009) narrative is a conflict dynamic that pits traditional strategic studies, narrow and overly militarized but dominant, against a diverse set of challengers who aim to widen and deepen the field. Gradually, the challengers erode the hegemonic position of the traditionalists. This analysis reflects the assumptions, premises, and perceptions that Buzan & Hansen bring to this project as protagonists in the camp of the challengers. The present article offers a traditionalist response to this narrative, suggesting that the evolution of the field looks very different when viewed through the lens of traditional strategic studies.