Fall 2019 Conflict Series—All Security is Ontological Security: Why Wyle E. Coyote Chases the Roadrunner
Each Tuesday, the Conflict, Security, and Development Series will examine new research, discuss creative policy approaches, and highlight recent innovations in responding to the challenges of security and development in conflict and post-conflict situations.
Ever wonder why conflicts continue well beyond the point of advantage to either participant? Contrary to many depictions, security is not always a strictly logical undertaking: people and states adhere to routine actions and relationships as they seek order, stability, and continuity even at the cost of committing irrational actions. Christopher Ankersen, Clinical Associate Professor, NYU School of Professional Studies' Center for Global Affairs, will demonstrate how the concept of ontological security has real explanatory power.