Chapter 5: Security in the Contemporary World

Political Science Part 1 • Class 12

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate17 pages • English

Quick Summary

Chapter 5 titled 'Security in the Contemporary World' in the NCERT Class 12 Political Science textbook explores the evolving concept of security from traditional to non-traditional approaches. It discusses the significance of addressing both military and non-military threats, emphasizing the importance of human security in addressing issues like poverty, climate change, and international terrorism. It also delves into the role of international cooperation and alliances in maintaining global security while analyzing India's security strategy and its challenges.

Key Topics

  • Traditional vs. Non-traditional Security
  • Human Security
  • Global Security Challenges
  • India's Security Strategy
  • International Alliances and Cooperation
  • Impact of Global Warming
  • Role of Technology in Security
  • Nuclear Disarmament and Arms Control

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the evolution of security concepts from traditional to non-traditional perspectives.
  • Analyze the importance of human and global security in contemporary politics.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of international alliances in maintaining peace.
  • Explore how environmental issues like climate change affect global security.
  • Assess the role of technology in modern security strategies.
  • Discuss India's approach to national and global security challenges.

Questions in Chapter

Match the terms with their meaning: i. Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) ii. Arms Control iii. Alliance iv. Disarmament

Answer: a. Giving up certain types of weapons b. A process of exchanging information on defense matters between nations on a regular basis c. A coalition of nations meant to deter or defend against military attacks d. Regulates the acquisition or development of weapons

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Which among the following would you consider as a traditional security concern / non-traditional security concern / not a threat? a. The spread of chikungunya / dengue fever b. Inflow of workers from a neighbouring nation c. Emergence of a group demanding nationhood for their region d. Emergence of a group demanding autonomy for their region e. A newspaper that is critical of the armed forces in the country

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What is the difference between traditional and non-traditional security? Which category would the creation and sustenance of alliances belong to?

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What are the differences in the threats that people in the Third World face and those living in the First World face?

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Is terrorism a traditional or non-traditional threat to security?

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What are the choices available to a state when its security is threatened, according to the traditional security perspective?

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Additional Practice Questions

Discuss how global warming poses a threat to security on a national and international level.

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Answer: Global warming threatens security by causing climate-induced disasters like floods and droughts, impacting food security and leading to resource conflicts. Internationally, it threatens to displace populations, increasing the burden on neighboring countries and potentially igniting conflicts over resource allocation.

Explain the concept of 'human security' and how it differs from state-centered security approaches.

easy

Answer: Human security shifts focus from protecting the state to protecting individuals, addressing threats like disease, hunger, and natural disasters rather than just military threats. It promotes 'freedom from fear' and 'freedom from want' as primary objectives, contrasting with traditional state-centered approaches that prioritize territory and sovereignty.

How do international organizations contribute to non-traditional security?

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Answer: International organizations like the UN and WHO contribute to non-traditional security by facilitating international cooperation, providing a platform for negotiation, and implementing global health and safety standards. They also assist in crisis situations like pandemics and conflict resolutions, ensuring a coordinated global response.

Evaluate the effect of nuclear disarmament treaties on global security.

hard

Answer: Nuclear disarmament treaties aim to reduce the threat of nuclear warfare by limiting the number of nuclear weapons globally. Treaties such as the NPT have helped prevent nuclear proliferation, although challenges remain due to geopolitical tensions and the slow pace of arms reduction.

Analyze the role of technology in contemporary security strategies.

hard

Answer: Technology plays a crucial role in contemporary security through advancements in surveillance, cyber security, and modern weaponry, enhancing the ability of states to respond to threats. However, it also introduces new risks like cyber warfare and the spread of misinformation, necessitating robust international governance.