Over the past twenty years, a revolution has occurred in relations between the American executive and legislative branches. Once a passive observer of the President's decisions on defense policy, the Congress has assumed a more aggressive role in decisions on the defense budget, arms control, war powers, sales of weapons abroad, and covert operations. Based on interviews with members of Congress and their staffs, The Politics of National Security describes and analyzes this fundamental change in the United States political system, concentrating on the political factors behind the Congress' greater assertiveness. The book explains how and why the transformation occurred and addresses the consequences for the defense of American interests abroad. Providing insights into the inner workings of Congress, this comprehensive study offers practical recommendations for resolving the long-standing issues between the two branches of United States government.

Product Description: The American Military in the Twenty-First Century assesses the likely roles of U.S. military forces in the changed international environment of the twenty-first century and how military roles and missions might best be allocated among the armed services to create a flexible, cost-effective force able to support U...read more

Product Description: Four scholars, three of whom work or have worked for the US government, explain the divergent geography, history, and strategic interests that have led the US to spurn Soviet appeals for naval arms control. They suggest that some relaxing of the policy might benefit the US...read more

Product Description: Book by Blechman, Barry M.

Case studies document an analysis of the modes and impact of America's use of military force short of warfare in determining foreign policy and easing international conflicts