American Military Power: An Ethical Inquiry (Public Affairs Program Series)
Lecture Series
Joanne J. Myers

The projection of American power brings with it certain duties and responsibilities. These imperatives are framed by three factors: unmatched technical capacity; the professional character of the force; and threat perception.

This series focuses on the moral aspects of asymmetric war; the composition of the American fighting force and the principles by which it operates; and the geopolitical obligations of the United States as a superpower.

• Is it valid to argue that the so-called war on terror is a "new war" and therefore new rules of engagement apply?
• Is the present force structure adequate to address the challenges of global security? Or will the choice be increased military outsourcing to private contractors?
• If outsourcing is the trend, what ethical standards will be expected from these outside providers?
• What are the costs and benefits of the increasing reliance on ever more technologically sophisticated "wonder weapons?"

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