The way that war is defined or declared is an inherently political process because it reflects underlying assumptions and overarching agendas concerned with human nature, rational choice, ethics, social attitudes or even civilisation values. In turn, these claims inform debates about the just cause or conduct, management, resolution or elimination of war. War seems endemic in human history but it has also undergone radical transformation. How will war in the twenty-first century be shaped by technology, tribalism, globalisation and democratisation? Drawing upon both classical and contemporary debates, this course will examine the complex relationship between war and politics.