Economics of War Series: Counting the Cost of U.S. Security

This webinar explores the complex relationship between national security challenges and the allocation of defense resources in the United States. Participants will examine both historical and contemporary case studies, analyze real-world data, and engage in critical discussions on how foreign and domestic threats—ranging from terrorism and cyber warfare to geopolitical rivalries—influence military budgets and strategic decisions.

Topics will include trends in U.S. defense spending, analysis of emerging global threats, the impact of major conflicts on defense funding, and how political, economic, and technological factors shape military strategy. Attendees will participate in interactive activities, including group discussions on real-world scenarios, data analysis exercises using recent defense budget reports, and collaborative breakout sessions to develop defense strategies based on evolving threat levels.

Teachers will gain practical tools and up-to-date content to enhance curriculum relevance and connect classroom learning to global issues. The session also offers strategies to develop students’ critical thinking by examining cause-and-effect relationships in government policy and national security, along with ready-to-use activities that bring complex topics like defense spending to life.