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Gale Mattox, U.S. Naval Academy, mattox@usna.edu

The APSA 2010 theme deals with governments and regimes during times of economic stress. Panels and roundtables for the ISAC section could address issues encompassing diverse theoretical, practical and policy-relevant, and methodological perspectives of institutions and actors confronting financial or political crises, ranging from civil wars in Africa to nontraditional security issues to defense budgeting and other issues.  What is the impact of such crises on the political system, particularly as related to security issues and conflict? How do governments react and adapt to extreme situations and what tools are available to resolve crisis in times of stress? Are revolution and internal turmoil inevitable? The theme invites discussion of the impact for democratic governments and the potential for the rise of authoritarian governments. What approaches are most appropriate in devising responses to crises?  Paper topics could range from a discussion of specific case studies to broad institutional challenges and appropriate global solutions. Innovative approaches to the set of issues raised by political and financial crises are encouraged, particularly as related to conflict and security.  Does fiscal austerity encourage or discourage proliferation, arms control or a state’s ability or willingness to pursue new and potentially costly arms control initiatives? Pedagogical panels/roundtables/papers are encouraged that address innovative ways to involve students or faculty in dealing with these issues, including simulations, IT and other methods.