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ABSTRACT
The modem concept of U.S. homeland security has existed since 9/11, with the formation of a cabinet-level department devoted to this issue and a refocusing of national policy and resources to deal with the dangers of terrorism and national disasters that threaten the security and well being of the nation. However, there has never been an agreed definition of the meaning of the term "homeland security."
This article discusses the evolution of homeland security and the many factors affecting development of an official definition. It demonstrates that this concept is part of the broader realm of national security and related to emergency management and homeland defense. The analysis can support homeland security curriculum development and stimulate classroom discussions. It can also be helpful to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials, other government officials working in this area, and nongovernmental experts and research organizations with security interests.
INTRODUCTION
The meaning of homeland security has been discussed and debated during the past decade. Notwithstanding its significance, however, there has not been an agreed definition of homeland security for making policies, conducting research, or developing curricula.
A recent report to Congress hones in on the lack of a definition for homeland security by sharply stating:
Ten years after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the U.S. government does not have a single definition for 'homeland security.' Currently, different strategic documents and mission statements offer varying missions that are derived from different homeland security definitions (Reese, 2012, p. 1).
The primary aim of this article is to discuss whether-and if so, why-a common meaning of homeland security ought to be developed, the difficulties in trying to do so, and how educators and students might go about developing a useful definition of this concept. Another purpose is to illuminate the overall security context in which homeland security functions.
The analysis in this article can serve as an element in developing homeland security sources of study and holding classroom discussions. With the steady growth of colleges and universities offering courses, certificates, and degrees in homeland security, this application might be of particular interest. This article can also serve as a basis for further research associated with institutions of learning or other organizations where homeland security research is being conducted....