The Politics of National Security: Congress and U.S. Defense Policy (A Twentieth Century Fund Book)

Barry M. Blechman

ISBN 10: 0195064674 / ISBN 13: 9780195064674

Published by Oxford University Press, 1990

May have limited writing in cover pages. Pages are unmarked. ~ ThriftBooks: Read More, Spend Less 1.02. Seller Inventory # G0195064674I4N00

Synopsis:

Over the past twenty years, a revolution has occurred in relations between the American executive and legislative branches. Once a passive observer of the President's decisions on defense policy, the Congress has assumed a more aggressive role in decisions on the defense budget, arms control, war powers, sales of weapons abroad, and covert operations. Based on interviews with members of Congress and their staffs, The Politics of National Security describes and analyzes this fundamental change in the United States political system, concentrating on the political factors behind the Congress' greater assertiveness. The book explains how and why the transformation occurred and addresses the consequences for the defense of American interests abroad. Providing insights into the inner workings of Congress, this comprehensive study offers practical recommendations for resolving the long-standing issues between the two branches of United States government.

Review: Barrys book offers a wide-ranging argument for a politics of engagement and resilience with each other, and with the environment that sustains us, in climate-changed society. It represents the best of critical and applied political theory, incorporating a range of ideas and practices of the academy and civil society into a broad call for a move beyond our unsustainable ways. We may be the people we have been waiting for, as Barry argues, but this is definitely the book weve been waiting for. (Prof. David Schlosberg, Professor of Environmental Politics, University of Sydney)

lively and thought-provoking ... well written and stimulating ... a valuable contribution to the literature (International Affairs)

valuable, highly readable and often stimulating study which enhances our understanding of Congress's contemporary role in military policy-making (Political Studies)

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Politics of National Security: Congress ...
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publication Date: 1990
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Very Good
Dust Jacket Condition: No Jacket