Isao Miyaoka Seminar

Security refers to a situation in which there are no threats to values already acquired (such as political independence, territorial integrity, and the lives and property of citizens). It is sometimes said to be like "oxygen." We are not usually conscious of its existence, but if it were gone, we would not even be able to sustain life. In recent years, the security environment surrounding Japan has become increasingly severe, with the Russia-Ukraine war, North Korea's development and deployment of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, and the rapid military buildup by China, which aims to build a world-class military. How should we think about and respond to such a situation?

This seminar aims to develop the ability to theoretically analyze security issues. In the third year, students deepen their understanding of essential issues in international politics, focusing on peace and security in the international community and national defense through armaments and alliances. In the fourth year, building on the previous year's learning, students can freely choose a research topic for their graduation thesis from a wide range of security issues—including non-state actors, refugees, and energy—without geographical restrictions to specific regions or countries.

(Published: April 2026)