01 - Definition of SECURITY by Arnold Wolfers

American international relations theorist Arnold Wolfers provides a two-dimensional definition of security: “Security in the objective sense measures the absence of threats to vital values, while in the subjective sense, it measures the absence of fear that such values will be attacked.”

This definition emphasizes that security is not only about the actual absence of threats but also about the subjective sense of safety. In other words, even if no real threats exist, a perception of danger can undermine the feeling of security. Therefore, effective security management requires an understanding of both objective conditions and subjective perceptions.

The concept of citizen security is often viewed through the lens of personal security, defined as “freedom from fear.” This understanding highlights the importance of protecting individuals from threats that may endanger their physical, psychological, or social well-being.

Personal security encompasses protection against various forms of violence, crime, discrimination, and other factors that can diminish the quality of life for citizens. Beyond physical safety, this concept includes a sense of security in daily life, which implies trust in institutions responsible for safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.

In modern societies, citizen security is seen as a multidimensional concept that involves not only protection from physical threats but also economic, social, and environmental factors that affect quality of life. Thus, effective management of citizen security requires a holistic approach that integrates different sectors of society to create a safe and stable environment for all.