This is a great video on the Russian perspective and strategy towards Eastern Europe.  The Russian incursion into Crimea and eastern Ukraine is without a doubt the most dangerous situation to cross the desk of the President Barack Obama since his election.  Skillful management could ease tensions and establish meaningful boundaries that allow both sides to resume normal relations.  Mismanagement can easily result in armed conflict on a scale not seen in decades.  So far the administration has been measured and gradual in its escalation of rhetoric and sanctions.  Time will tell.

Why you should be a Political Scientist . . .

Here is something more relevant to my own personal background as a Political Science major:



This is a fascinating look at decision making in Iran that underlines a fundamental shift that has occurred in the fields of Political Science and International Relations over the last several decades. Namely, the reduction of complex interactions between individuals into mathematical models that can be used in a wider range of situations and scenarios. This model, produced by one of the core personalities of the Political Science community, Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, is compelling. Not only for its intracacy but also for what I believe to be a correct interpretation of the various actors and influences on Iranian politics and the likely future outcomes.

So study Math kids, its everywhere.