NCERT Class 12 Political Science Contemporary World Politics: Chapter 5 — Security in the Contemporary World
This chapter from NCERT's Contemporary World Politics for Class 12 introduces the concept of security in the contemporary world. It begins by questioning the common understanding of 'security' and 'national security,' often used to limit debate. The chapter highlights the shift from a narrow, state-centric view to a broader concern for human security, as emphasized by the 1994 UNDP Human Development Report. It explores different perspectives on what constitutes a security threat, considering whose 'core values' are at stake—the nation's or ordinary citizens'. The text discusses the intensity of threats and the need to define security in terms of extremely dangerous threats that endanger core values beyond repair. It acknowledges that security is a complex and evolving idea, questioning whether societies have always held the same conception of security. The chapter aims to equip students with a nuanced understanding of security issues in contemporary global politics.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | Political Science |
| Book | Contemporary World Politics |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Security in the Contemporary World |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 597 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the different meanings of security and national security.
- Differentiate between state-centric security and human security.
- Analyze the various types of threats to security in the contemporary world.
- Recognize the importance of context in defining security concerns.
- Appreciate the evolving nature of the concept of security.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Security | Freedom from threats to core values. |
| National Security | Security concerns related to the well-being and core values of a nation-state. |
| Human Security | Security that focuses on the legitimate concerns of ordinary people in their daily lives. |
| Core Values | Fundamental principles or beliefs that are central to a nation or an individual's identity and well-being. |
| Threat | A situation or action that endangers core values. |
| UNDP | United Nations Development Programme, an organization that promotes human development. |
| Peacekeeping Force | A military force deployed to maintain peace in a conflict zone. |
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Practice questions
- What is the basic definition of security? Answer: Security implies freedom from threats to core values.
- What is the difference between national security and human security? Answer: National security focuses on the state's core values, while human security focuses on the well-being and daily lives of ordinary people.
- According to the chapter, why is it important to define security carefully? Answer: A broad view of security would make the world seem saturated with dangers, paralyzing our ability to act.
- What does the 1994 UNDP Human Development Report suggest about the concept of security? Answer: It suggests that security has been interpreted too narrowly, focusing more on nation-states than people.
Practice MCQs
Q1. The terms 'security' or 'national security' are often used to:
Explanation: The chapter states that these terms are often used to stop debate and discussion, implying issues are too important or secret for public discourse.
Q2. The 1994 UNDP Human Development Report emphasized a shift towards:
Explanation: The report contended that the concept of security had been interpreted narrowly and related more to nation-states than people, advocating for human security.
Q3. At its most basic, security implies:
Explanation: The text defines security at its most basic level as freedom from threats that could endanger core values.
Q4. Who decides about an individual's security, according to the questions raised in the chapter?
Explanation: The chapter poses the question, 'Can't I decide what is my security?', suggesting that individuals should have a say in defining their own security.
Q5. If we took an extensive view of security, the world would be:
Explanation: The text warns that taking an extensive view of security would mean the world would be saturated with security issues and we would be paralysed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the common perception of 'security' or 'national security' as discussed in the chapter?
They are often used to stop debate and discussion, implying issues are too important or secret for ordinary citizens to discuss openly.
What is the main argument of the 1994 UNDP Human Development Report regarding security?
It argues that the concept of security has been interpreted too narrowly, focusing on nation-states rather than the legitimate concerns of ordinary people.
What does 'security' mean at its most basic level?
At its most basic, security implies freedom from threats that could endanger core values beyond repair.
Why is it important to define security carefully?
A very broad definition of security would mean that every single threat counts, leading to a world saturated with security issues and paralysis.
Does the chapter suggest that security is a fixed concept?
No, the chapter suggests that security remains a 'slippery idea' and questions whether societies have always had the same conception of it.
What is the implication of the term 'peacekeeping force' mentioned in the chapter?
The chapter poses it as a potentially paradoxical term, inviting reflection on the nature of peace and the forces involved in maintaining it.
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NCERT Class 12 Political Science — Contemporary World Politics — Chapter 5 — Security in the Contemporary World. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.