Fall 2024 - 60020 - PA 325 - Topics in Policy

Description: This course introduces students to the policy and technical aspects of international and domestic efforts to stop the spread of nuclear weapons to terrorists or additional countries. Students will learn about connections between peaceful uses of nuclear technology – for energy, research, and industry – and nuclear weapons proliferation. They will gain valuable experience in public speaking through formal in-class debates, and in teamwork on final group projects. They also will learn lessons applicable to broader areas of policy – by exploring the interaction between international law, domestic law, national interests, commercial interests, norms, and advocacy by nongovernmental organizations. The requirements are class participation (20% of grade), a mid-term exam (20%), formal debates (20%), and a final project in the form of a paper, video, or other creative research output (40%).