Introduces major debates surrounding the militarization of relief, politicization of aid, and armed interventions. Addresses tensions, surrounding the appeal to "care for distant, strangers," management of violence, and the response of various actors from NGOs and international institutions to individuals, media, celebrities. Students will become familiar with the key actors, agencies, and ideas in the development of modern humanitarianism, explore lessons from major past and present crises, and engage with the stories of people affected.