Case studies and experimentation complement the theoretical framework initially advanced, with the students working in teams during this portion of the course. This course continues the mathematical modeling process and concepts introduced in SO2410. Models will now entail the use of probability to find solutions. Introductory probabilistic models will be discussed along with rudimentary statistical concepts needed to analyze data generated from those models. The course will also introduce simulation modeling using combat model such as Janus.
Decision modeling includes decision making under both risk and uncertainty.
This course provides an overview of insurgency and counter-insurgency. It reviews the theoretical literature and offers an operational focus on social revolution by examining the alternative models of insurgency provided by the doctrine of people s war, foco theory , and the urban guerrilla. The course goes on to examine the development of U.S. counterinsurgency doctrine, the difference between the hearts and minds and systems prescriptions of counterinsurgency, and alternative British, French, and Russian concepts of counterinsurgency. It briefly examines the early history of terrorism, the contending theories that purport to explain the sources of terrorist behavior, the different types of terrorism and terrorist actions, and the challenge international terrorism poses for American interests and foreign policy. Functional topics, such as the special problems posed by state-sponsored terrorism, the relationship between terrorism and the media, and the range of possible military responses to terrorism are also examined.