Overview

The rise of international terrorism in today’s globalized world has focused attention on the degree to which international law should shape U.S. national security law and policy.

Content and Approach

This unique textbook of readings explores how international law relates to U.S. constitutional and statutory law in terms of the right to wage war, the law of armed conflict, combatant status, interrogation of detainees, military commissions, covert action, targeted killing, electronic surveillance, and cyber war.

Each chapter is composed of a chronological set of core readings followed by a set of provocative questions, with commentary linking one reading to the next.

Writing Style and Audience

Written in a lively and engaging manner, U.S. National Security Law makes challenging subject matter accessible for undergraduate students outside of a law school classroom.