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853-0082-00L 3 Credits BSC , DS , WBZ D-GESS
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Strategic Studies I

Strategische Studien I

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Mauro Mantovani
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:18

Abstract

The lecture series treats high-impact strategic theory from antiquity to the present.

Objective

The participants know how the understanding of strategy has evolved over time. They understand the interplay of strategy's basic components: ends, ways, means. They know the most important classics of strategy and war theory, especially against their specific historical background. Based on the analysis of historical and contemporary examples, they are aware of the mismatch between declaration and implementation of any given strategy. They are capable of analyzing original texts and modern scholarly works in the field of strategic studies.

Content

The two-term lecture series treats classic texts of strategic studies from antiquity to the present. Term 1 covers the theories up until roughly 1900, term 2 treats the theories eversince. Theories are considered classic if they were prominent in their respective times and if they enjoyed a strong reception thereafter, be it in literature, in academic debates or as guidelines for action (doctrine). Each out of some 50 theories is discussed in three steps: historical context, core elements and reception.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Prior to the lectures, the respective slides are provided as well as a primary sources and literature, as preparatory readings (via Moodle).The program is also available online (www.milak.ch).

Literature

Peter Paret, Makers of Modern Strategy. From Machiavelli to the Nuclear Age, Princeton 1986. Lawrence Freedman, Strategy. A History, New York 2013. Martin van Creveld, A History of Strategy: from Sun Tzu to William S. Lind, Kouvola 2015.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC , DS , WBZ
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Die Beantwortung der Prüfungsfragen kann auch auf Englisch, Französisch oder Italienisch erfolgen.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Strategische Studien I
  • Tue 14:15-16:00 (IFW A 36)
2 h weekly

Offered In