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Full-Text Articles in International Relations

How To Melt A Cold War: With Nuclear War Raising Its Ugly Head Again, Canada Must Act For Disarmament, Erika Simpson Nov 2016

How To Melt A Cold War: With Nuclear War Raising Its Ugly Head Again, Canada Must Act For Disarmament, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Amid rising nuclear tensions and renewed arms spending, Canada faces criticism for its stance against a UN resolution calling for a global ban on nuclear weapons. The resolution, known as L41, aims to establish a legally binding process to prohibit the manufacture, possession, and use of nuclear arms. Canada’s vote against the resolution, alongside other NATO allies, has been criticized for contradicting its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to pursue disarmament. Despite this, there are calls for Canada to participate in upcoming UN negotiations and reassess its position on nuclear deterrence, especially in light of the potential catastrophic impacts …


Whose Finger On The Nuclear Trigger: The U.S. Election Focuses The Mind On Who Will Be Commander-In-Chief - And Why We Continue To Have Nuclear Weapons Anyway, Erika Simpson Sep 2016

Whose Finger On The Nuclear Trigger: The U.S. Election Focuses The Mind On Who Will Be Commander-In-Chief - And Why We Continue To Have Nuclear Weapons Anyway, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The U.S. presidential election underscores the critical issue of nuclear weapons and the challenges of nuclear deterrence. As the next commander-in-chief may have to make split-second decisions on nuclear strikes, the stakes are high given the rapid response times required during crises. The article critiques both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump’s positions on nuclear strategy, emphasizing the risks associated with their potential decision-making. Despite the pressing need for nuclear disarmament, U.S. candidates show limited commitment to eliminating nuclear arsenals. The global movement for disarmament, including efforts by mayors, religious leaders, and organizations, calls for urgent action. Canada, despite its NATO …


Whose Finger On The Nuclear Trigger, Erika Simpson, Murray Thomson Sep 2016

Whose Finger On The Nuclear Trigger, Erika Simpson, Murray Thomson

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.


Towards A World Free Of Nuclear Weapons, Erika Simpson Aug 2016

Towards A World Free Of Nuclear Weapons, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.


Keeping The Peace: Canada Should Jump-Start A Un Emergency Peace Service And Canadian Peacekeeping Training Centre, Erika Simpson Jul 2016

Keeping The Peace: Canada Should Jump-Start A Un Emergency Peace Service And Canadian Peacekeeping Training Centre, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Canada should spearhead the establishment of a UN Emergency Peace Service (UNEPS) and re-open a Canadian peacekeeping training centre in Kingston. The Global Peace Index reveals that global violence costs 13.4% of GDP, with only 10 conflict-free countries and increasing arms sales. While Canada ranks as the world's second-largest arms exporter, civil society organizations advocating for peace are struggling due to cutbacks. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's commitment to peace is overshadowed by Canada's participation in arms trades and NATO military contributions. A UNEPS could offer rapid, reliable responses to conflict and humanitarian crises. Re-establishing the Lester B. Pearson Multinational Peacekeeping …


Brexit Vote Could Allow For Nuclear Weapons Rethink, Erika Simpson Jul 2016

Brexit Vote Could Allow For Nuclear Weapons Rethink, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The Brexit vote has significant implications for nuclear weapons policy, particularly regarding Scotland and the UK's Trident system. Should Britons vote for Brexit, Scotland, led by the Scottish National Party (SNP), might pursue independence and seek the removal of Trident nuclear submarines currently based at Faslane. This would force the UK to find an alternative location for its sea-based nuclear warheads, potentially costing billions. The decision could also impact broader nuclear disarmament efforts, as an independent Scotland and a changing UK stance might align with NATO states that prohibit nuclear weapons on their soil. Such shifts could contribute to international …


Carrying On With Wayward Sons: With Their Brains Not Maturing Until Their Mid-20s, It’S Time To Use A Different Approach To Life And Learning With Our Young Men, Erika Simpson May 2016

Carrying On With Wayward Sons: With Their Brains Not Maturing Until Their Mid-20s, It’S Time To Use A Different Approach To Life And Learning With Our Young Men, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Henrik Lagerlund and Erika Simpson argue that due to the later development of the male brain, which isn't fully matured until around age 25, a different approach to education and life planning for young men might be beneficial. They suggest delaying university entry until after high school and encouraging young men to explore the humanities and social sciences. This delay could allow them to mature and develop more responsibility before diving into higher education. The authors believe that such an approach could better prepare young men for future roles by focusing on a well-rounded education that includes classical studies, philosophy, …


Federal Minister Delays Decision On Nuclear Waste Depository, Erika Simpson Apr 2016

Federal Minister Delays Decision On Nuclear Waste Depository, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The federal minister of the environment, Catherine McKenna, has dealt a setback to the proposal put forward by government-owned Ontario Power Generation (OPG), for the underground storage of nuclear waste. The proposed Deep Geologic Repository (DGR) would be located in Kincardine, Ontario, approximately 1.2 kilometres away from the shore of Lake Huron, and constructed underneath the world's largest operating nuclear power plant.


What Comes From The Crypt, Erika Simpson Apr 2015

What Comes From The Crypt, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

"What Comes from the Crypt?" by Erika Simpson examines the contentious plan by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to store over 200,000 cubic meters of low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste in underground caverns near Lake Huron. Despite a federal panel's endorsement, the proposal faces strong opposition from local municipalities, environmental advocates, and First Nations. Opponents raise concerns about the site's long-term safety, potential environmental hazards, and the integrity of the regulatory bodies involved. The plan has also sparked international apprehension, especially among American officials and municipalities worried about the Great Lakes' freshwater supply. Critics argue that nuclear waste management decisions require …


North Korea ’ S Attack On Sony Pictures Gets The Headlines, But Many Countries Are Engaged In This New War Front, Erika Simpson Jan 2015

North Korea ’ S Attack On Sony Pictures Gets The Headlines, But Many Countries Are Engaged In This New War Front, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Cyberwarfare has become a critical concern in global security, exemplified by North Korea's attack on Sony Pictures, which highlighted the capabilities and threats posed by cyberweapons. This article explores the broader context of cyberwarfare, drawing attention to significant incidents such as the STUXNET virus, which destroyed a fifth of Iran's nuclear centrifuges in 2010. The discussion extends to various nations' development and deployment of cyberweapons, including the U.S., China, Russia, and Iran, highlighting the evolution and sophistication of these tools. Cyberweapons can paralyze infrastructure, remain dormant in systems until activated, and their origins often remain concealed. The article also discusses …


The Roulette Wheel Is Spinning On A U.S.-Iran War, Erika Simpson Nov 2007

The Roulette Wheel Is Spinning On A U.S.-Iran War, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

This article examines the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, focusing on the potential for military conflict. The author, Erika Simpson, explores the geopolitical dynamics and the statements from key political figures that suggest an increasing likelihood of war. President George W. Bush's remarks about preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, coupled with similar sentiments from other U.S. political leaders, highlight the aggressive stance of the U.S. administration. The article also considers the international response, particularly from Russia, which opposes any military action against Iran. With both nations holding substantial nuclear arsenals on high alert, the risks of …


Why Bash Americans?, Erika Simpson Feb 2006

Why Bash Americans?, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

This article by Erika Simpson discusses the complexities and challenges in Canada-U.S. relations, particularly under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Contrary to the hopes of many Conservative voters for improved relations, Harper's early actions, such as criticizing U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins over comments on the Northwest Passage, indicate a contentious stance. The article explores the historical context of Canada's cautious approach to U.S. dominance, emphasizing Canadian values of multilateralism and diplomacy. It highlights how Canadian leaders from various political parties have often criticized U.S. policies to maintain a balance and assert Canadian sovereignty. The article also contrasts Canadian …


Game Theory And International Security, Erika Simpson Mar 1991

Game Theory And International Security, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.