Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: A large debate has erupted in recent work on social movements about the role of the state in protest, with some advocating alternative approaches to the study of social movements, such as a focus on institutional authorities. Using data on four types of online protest (petitions, boycotts, and letter-writing and e-mail campaigns), acquired using an innovative new methodology that produces a generalizable sample of online protest actions, this paper addresses this debate. We find that, while the state is a frequent target of online protest, a significant portion of protest activity targets other institutional authorities. Our analyses disaggregate the state and distinguish between types of institutional authorities, further deepening the understanding of both state and non-state actors. In addition to informing the existing debate over the definition of social movement activity, our data suggest an association between tactical forms and their targets. Finally, by using Internet data, this paper contributes to an under-studied area of social movement research: online protest.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: United Nations sanctions are an essential instrument of multilateral action under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. Since 1990, the Security Council has launched a new era in the use of collective coercive economic measures as a means of responding to violations of international norms. The Council has passed dozens of resolutions imposed against more than sixteen distinct targets including states, nongovernmental entities, militias and other political/military movements. This paper will explore the effectiveness of targeted sanctions by considering how successful sanctions are in terms of achieving the goals set by the UN Security Council. The activities that contribute to effective sanctions are discussed in three distinct areas and issues of concern and possibilities for improvement are highlighted.This paper will consider why sanctions do not always achieve the goals desired by the Security Council and suggest areas for possible improvement. The following activities are key components to the successful use of targeted sanctions, and are also areas where improvements might be made: A.Setting and Achieving GoalsB.ListingC.SignalingAfter laying out suggestions for more effective sanctions, we will turn our attention to implementation. Finding ways to implement sanctions in as swift and complete a manner as possible is the key to addressing the majority of problems that have been encountered in the use of sanctions. Finally, this paper will consider the various responses to sanctions after they are implemented and will offer suggestions for maintaining a flexible, dynamic response to events on the ground.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: We identify three common flaws in much of the empirical literature on the diversionary use of force. First, while theoretical models of the diversionary use of force are built on the motivations of leaders to stay in power, the great majority of empirical studies employ data sets with the country or country-year as their unit of analysis. Second, while theories of the diversionary use of force strongly suggest a reciprocal relationship between the probabilities of losing office and international conflict, almost no studies have explicitly modeled such a reciprocal relationship. Third, most empirical studies ignore how the diversionary incentives of leaders might affect the strategic calculus of their potential foreign opponents. We explicitly address these common flaws by using a data set with the leader-year as the unit of analysis, by employing a two-stage probit model to examine a reciprocal relationship between the probabilities of losing office and becoming a target, and by focusing on targets. Confirming Smith’s (1996) argument, we find that as the risk of losing office increases, leaders become less likely to be targets in an international crisis. The risk of becoming a target in an international crisis, however, does not affect the probability of losing office. We therefore find no support for a rally around the flag effect.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Target marketing is both common place and necessary for the success of any public relations or advertising campaign. Yet, these campaigns can raise ethical dilemmas, especially in regards to the marketing of harmful products and the targeting of vulnerable consumers. This paper identifies aspects of target marketing that can be ethically questionable, including the method of persuasion, the nature of the product and the target. Differences among marketing, advertising and public relations are discussed to determine whether one of these communication tools produces more potential for ethical dilemmas then the others. Also, the role of the product, paying special attention to sin products, is examined as well as the perceived vulnerability of the target audience. Finally, the present research provides a foundation for future studies on where ethical decision-making should begin and what guidelines should be followed for ethically evaluating target marketing.