Associate Professor
Sharad Joshi teaches courses in and researches topics related to terrorism and nuclear issues in South Asia and Southeast Asia. He first came to the Middlebury Institute as a postdoctoral fellow at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies in 2006 and joined the full-time faculty at the Graduate School of International Policy and Management in 2011. His wide-ranging interests in international relations were sparked in middle and high school in India during the tumultuous years when the Cold War came to a close. He studied economics as an undergraduate and then discovered an MA program in international relations, which was the most obvious path given his burgeoning interest in the field throughout the first half of the 1990s. After his MA (and a short detour as a journalist), he moved to a PhD program in the United States focusing on terrorism and nuclear issues as part of his dissertation. At the Middlebury Institute, he also served as a research associate and interim director of the Monterey Terrorism Research and Education Program.
DPPG 8698
Directed StudyCourse Description
Student must obtain a faculty advisor, complete a Directed Study proposal form, obtain signatures, and submit to the Associate Dean of Academic Operations for approval.
Terms Taught
MIIS 8505
Introduction to TerrorismCourse Description
Introduction to Terrorism
This course is designed to provide a critical introduction to the subject of terrorism, an often misunderstood phenomenon that has assumed a particular salience in the wake of 9/11. Its aim is to clarify fundamental definitional and conceptual problems, introduce students to the burgeoning literature on the subject, describe basic terrorist organizational and operational methods, survey a wide range of terrorist groups and ideologies, examine certain high-profile terrorism themes, and tentatively assess the nature of the threat posed by terrorists to global security in the future. (Open to Juniors and Seniors only) The dates of this course are SEPTEMBER 6 through DECEMBER 16. Registering for this course signals your interest in taking the course.
Terms Taught
MIIS 8507
Sem:Terrorism in South AsiaCourse Description
Terrorism in South Asia
Terrorist violence has persisted in various parts of South Asia for several decades. A variety of interconnected reasons can be assigned to this phenomenon – state sponsorship, separatist tendencies, religious and sectarian divides, and political meddling. Terrorism in South Asia is also a crucial concern because of its broader connections to extra-regional terrorist networks. The two dominant states in South Asia possess nuclear weapons and have a long history of military conflict and have periodically experienced crises situations provoked by terrorist attacks. Additionally, the history of proliferation networks and concerns over Pakistan’s nuclear security further exacerbate the threat perception from terrorist networks.
The object of this course is to understand the causes and dimensions of terrorism in South Asia and to analyze positions adopted by the involved parties, state and non-state. From the policy perspective, this is essential toward formulating responses to terrorism in the region. South Asia is conventionally defined as the region comprising the countries of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and the Maldives. But for the purposes of this seminar we will also look at developments in Afghanistan (generally considered as South-West Asia), given its crucial links to terrorism issues in South Asia. (Open to Juniors and Seniors only) The dates of this course are JANUARY 31 through MAY 20. . Registering for this course signals your interest in taking the course.
Terms Taught
MIIS 8525
SEMCurrentTrendsTerrorismRsrchCourse Description
SEM: Current Trends in Terrorism Research
The course examines current themes and policy-relevant analytical questions regarding present-day terrorism. These topics include alternative conceptions of terrorism studies, including from the critical terrorism studies perspective; issues of gender and terrorism; media and extremism; terrorism in the cyber domain; conspiracy theories and their impact on extremism and terrorism. It will also discuss issues of terrorism research methods issues that have arisen in recent years. From a forecasting perspective, it will examine how David Rapoport’s waves of terrorism is applicable in assessing global extremism and terrorism today. Topics will also include the transnational nature of far-right extremism and terrorism, as well as recent research on psychological factors and online radicalization. The dates of this course are SEPTEMBER 6 through DECEMBER 16.
Terms Taught
MIIS 8529
SEM: Nuc Weapons in South AsiaCourse Description
SEM: Nuc Weapons in South Asia
In the realm of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), South Asia is one of the key regions of analysis. This course takes a comprehensive look at the role of WMD in the strategic thinking of various actors involved in the South Asian security framework. It is important to note that South Asian nuclear issues cannot be studied in isolation from other regional and global dynamics. States such as the U.S., China, and Russia are crucial players in the South Asian strategic framework. The course examines various reasons behind WMD acquisition by India and Pakistan, concentrating especially on nuclear weapons. These factors include threat perceptions, domestic imperatives and nationalistic attitudes. A key element of nuclear weapons programs is the development of effective delivery systems such as missiles and aircraft. Analysis of such programs provides an indicator of current and future strategy. In this context, both India and Pakistan have made major strides in their cruise and ballistic missile programs to make their nuclear strategy more credible. At the same time, neither side has a clearly enunciated nuclear doctrine, although attempts have been made in this direction. This is crucial in context of a reliable command and control system and for crisis stability. Another major issue covered in this course is the proliferation of WMD materials to non-state actors or aspiring nuclear states by proliferation networks connected to South Asia. Relatedly, policymakers in the region and elsewhere are also concerned with the danger of nuclear terrorism. These are some of the prominent issues concerning weapons of mass destruction in South Asia. The two sides have periodically taken steps to prevent nuclear crises situations. Apart from nuclear weapons, this seminar also examines chemical and biological weapons policy in the two countries.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8504 Current
Global PoliticsCourse Description
Understanding the complex dynamics of global politics requires examination of a number of issues and characteristics of the international system. The key objective of this class is to provide students with the ability to approach different perspectives to any global political issue. These elements of the study of global politics include theoretical frameworks and historical trajectories, without which no global issue can be understood adequately. Other topics of discussion will include global governance, transnational global problems, and the international financial system.
The course reflects the evolving nature of international relations, a continuous process since recorded history, which included the rise of the Westphalian nation-state system. The continuous transformation now includes the rise of non-state actors as influential participants and protagonists (not necessarily always benign) in the global system; entities that include terrorist and insurgent groups, non-governmental organizations, multi-national corporations, for example.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8517 Upcoming
IntlCrisis NegotiationExerciseCourse Description
International Crisis Negotiation Exercise
The International Strategic Crisis Negotiation Exercise (ISCNE) is a three-day, experiential learning opportunity in diplomacy and negotiations. This year's scenario is based on a hypothetical crisis in the South China Sea. Tensions in the regions have been rising for the last several years with the intensification of rivalry between China and the West, and with maritime disputes between Beijing and regional powers such the Philippines. Up to nine delegations, comprised of students, will try to find diplomatic solutions to a complex set of issues in this crisis. This includes matters involving climate change, resources, militarization, territory, international trade, and governance. The simulation will allow you to think creatively about this region and experience what diplomatic negotiators do to solve real-world issues affecting people globally.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8564 Current
Great Power CompetitionCourse Description
One of the abiding features of international relations and history is competition and rivalry between great powers—countries (and empires in the past) that have global influence, based on key indicators of power: military, economic, diplomatic, and technological. Contemporary great power competition is centered especially around the United States and China, and manifests through tensions and confrontations across a range of sectors and areas, such as: in the South China Sea; the semi-conductor industry and broader technological competition; global tariffs, as part of economic statecraft. Meanwhile, traditional conventional military and nuclear weapons strategies remain an integral part of the competition. This is especially true of the second such contemporary dyad, the traditional great power rivalry between the West and Russia, which emerged from the ideological confrontation during the Cold War.
Key issues that are covered in this course include: how do we conceptualize great powers? What are the strategies pursued by these powers, including regional alliances? How do middle and regional powers react to great power competition? What are the implications of great power rivalry for regional and global stability? How does the emergence of the cyber realm impact great power competition?
Terms Taught
NPTG 8584 Upcoming
Introduction to TerrorismCourse Description
The course is an introduction to the subject of terrorism. The course will focus on a range of fundamental questions, such as: What is Terrorism? What causes Terrorism? Why do terrorist groups emerge and how do they end? What is extremism? Why do individuals join terrorist groups? What are lone wolf terrorists? What is leaderless jihad? These are but a few of the elements that will be explored over the course of the semester. The course also aims to expose students to a wide range of terrorist groups and ideologies.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8636
SEMCurrentTrendsTerrorismRsrchCourse Description
Current Trends in Terrorism Research
The course examines current themes and policy-relevant analytical questions regarding present-day terrorism. These topics include alternative conceptions of terrorism studies, including from the critical terrorism studies perspective; issues of gender and terrorism; media and extremism; terrorism in the cyber domain; conspiracy theories and their impact on extremism and terrorism. It will also discuss issues of terrorism research methods issues that have arisen in recent years. From a forecasting perspective, it will examine how David Rapoport’s waves of terrorism is applicable in assessing global extremism and terrorism today. Topics will also include the transnational nature of far-right extremism and terrorism, as well as recent research on psychological factors and online radicalization.
Syllabus topics:
1. Critical terrorism studies – theory and policy
2. Terrorism research methods. Debates in terrorism research
3. Terrorism and civil wars
4. Gender issues and terrorism
5. How terrorists use natural disasters for political influence
6. Psychology and contemporary radicalization; online radicalization and the
psychological basis
7. Fifth wave of terrorism and forecasting
8. Contemporary state-sponsored terrorism; risks for the state
9. The transnational nature of contemporary far-right terrorism
10. Media and terrorism; disinformation campaigns
11. Cyber terrorism
12. Conspiracy theories and terrorism/extremism
13. Competition amongst terrorist groups
Terms Taught
NPTG 8668
Sem:Terrorism in South AsiaCourse Description
Terrorist violence has persisted in various parts of South Asia for several decades. A variety of interconnected reasons can be assigned to this phenomenon – state sponsorship, separatist tendencies, religious and sectarian divides, and political meddling. Terrorism in South Asia is also a crucial concern because of its broader connections to extra-regional terrorist networks. The two dominant states in South Asia possess nuclear weapons and have a long history of military conflict and have periodically experienced crises situations provoked by terrorist attacks. Additionally, the history of proliferation networks and concerns over Pakistan’s nuclear security further exacerbate the threat perception from terrorist networks.
The object of this course is to understand the causes and dimensions of terrorism in South Asia and to analyze positions adopted by the involved parties, state and non-state. From the policy perspective, this is essential toward formulating responses to terrorism in the region. South Asia is conventionally defined as the region comprising the countries of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and the Maldives. But for the purposes of this seminar we will also look at developments in Afghanistan (generally considered as South-West Asia), given its crucial links to terrorism issues in South Asia.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8674
Sem:Security&ViolSouthEastAsiaCourse Description
Various parts of South-East Asia have been plagued by terrorist violence in recent decades. South-East Asia refers to the region eastward from Burma/Myanmar till the Philippines. This course studies the phenomenon of terrorism in countries of the region such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. Some of the groups that this course examines include – Jemaah Islamiyah, Abu Sayyaf, Moro Islamic Liberation Front – their objectives, characteristics, composition, ideologies, tactics and fund-raising. Apart from these cases, the course also examines thematic issues such as the prospect of WMD terrorism and proliferation of WMD materials, maritime terrorism and piracy, and U.S. policy on counter-terrorism in South-East Asia. We also discuss connections between groups in South-East Asia and regional and global terrorist groups elsewhere, such as Al Qaeda and the Taliban. In order to have a comprehensive picture of non-state security threats in the region, the course also examines the various insurgent movements in Myanmar. Finally, given the close security dynamics between Australia and South-East Asia, this course also looks at terrorism-related issues in Australia.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8683 Upcoming
Sem: Nuc Weapons in South AsiaCourse Description
In the realm of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), South Asia is one of the key regions of analysis. This course takes a comprehensive look at the role of WMD in the strategic thinking of various actors involved in the South Asian security framework. It is important to note that South Asian nuclear issues cannot be studied in isolation from other regional and global dynamics. States such as the U.S., China, and Russia are crucial players in the South Asian strategic framework. The course examines various reasons behind WMD acquisition by India and Pakistan, concentrating especially on nuclear weapons. These factors include threat perceptions, domestic imperatives and nationalistic attitudes. A key element of nuclear weapons programs is the development of effective delivery systems such as missiles and aircraft. Analysis of such programs provides an indicator of current and future strategy. In this context, both India and Pakistan have made major strides in their cruise and ballistic missile programs to make their nuclear strategy more credible. At the same time, neither side has a clearly enunciated nuclear doctrine, although attempts have been made in this direction. This is crucial in context of a reliable command and control system and for crisis stability. Another major issue covered in this course is the proliferation of WMD materials to non-state actors or aspiring nuclear states by proliferation networks connected to South Asia. Relatedly, policymakers in the region and elsewhere are also concerned with the danger of nuclear terrorism. These are some of the prominent issues concerning weapons of mass destruction in South Asia. The two sides have periodically taken steps to prevent nuclear crises situations. Apart from nuclear weapons, this seminar also examines chemical and biological weapons policy in the two countries.
Terms Taught
NPTG 8698
Directed StudyCourse Description
Student must obtain a faculty advisor, complete a Directed Study proposal form, obtain signatures, and submit to the Associate Dean of Academic Operations for approval.
Terms Taught
Sharad Joshi’s research interests focus on several issues pertaining to terrorism, and nuclear weapons, especially in South Asia. This includes decision-making and strategies on the part of these groups, including terrorist financing, CBRN terrorism, and rivalry and cooperation amongst terrorist groups. His research on nuclear weapons in South Asia includes examining the nuclear rivalry in the subcontinent and issues related to security of nuclear weapons in Pakistan.
Professor Joshi has been teaching at the Institute since 2007.
Select Publications
| by Jason Warburg
U.S. Army War College recently led a weekend-long simulation on campus with students from the Middlebury Institute, the Defense Language Institute, Naval Postgraduate School, and San Jose State University.
| by Mark C. Anderson
Leading security researchers from Stanford recently came to the Institute to find out how global security experts and students might deal with a complicated confrontation with China.
| by Sierra Abukins
Just saw the Oppenheimer film and hungry for more? Our global security faculty and researchers have recommendations.
