The definition of National Security is most often associated with military or diplomatic action performed outside the United States. The problem is this definition does not account for every possible threat and may elevate problems that are not threats or may ignore problems that are threats.
According to Joseph J. Romm in the book “Defining National Security”, the term national security was little used until after World War II. He states a possible origin from Defense Secretary Forrestal’s testimony before a Senate Hearing in August 1945. In this context the Secretary used security in place of defense, though he intended a wider definition. The military nature of this term remains as the foremost aspect of any definition. Therefore, the ability to keep foreign enemies at bay and preferably by action well away from U. S. shores generally characterizes most definitions, as you will note.
WordIQ: National security is the measures taken by a state to ensure its survival and safety. National Security includes the deterrence of attack, from within and without, as well as the protection and well being of citizens.
Free Dictionary.com: A collective term encompassing both national defense and foreign relations of the United States. Specifically, the condition provided by: a. a military or defense advantage over any foreign nation or group of nations; b. a favorable foreign relations position; or c. a defense posture capable of successfully resisting hostile or destructive action from within or without, overt or covert.
Wikipedia: National security is the requirement to maintain the survival of the nation-state through the use of economic, military and political power and the exercise of diplomacy.
Encarta: Protection of (a) nation from danger: the protection of a nation from attack or other danger by maintaining adequate armed forces and guarding state secrets.
There is a lot missing in the working definition of this term from a number of sources, the above sampling demonstrates the overwhelming military slant. National Security is more than just keeping enemies at bay. National Security must certainly account for keeping the nation true to its founding, the values and welfare of its citizens and its economic prosperity. To properly secure the nation, it is important to understand what that means and act accordingly. This blog and how it comments on National Security depends on a complete definition. More to follow and your comments are invited.
