Charles W. Mahoney

Charles W. Mahoney is a Professor in the Department of Political Science at California State University, Long Beach within the College of Liberal Arts. His academic work centers on international relations and security studies, with specialized expertise in violent extremist organizations, defense industry dynamics, and U.S. foreign policy decision-making.

His educational background includes:

• B.A. in History, Williams College (with highest honors)
• M.A. in Political Science, UCLA
• Ph.D. in Political Science, UCLA

Professor Mahoney's research program investigates three interconnected domains: the strategic logic of violent extremist groups (including bioterrorism and bluffing tactics), the political economy of defense contracting (examining relationships between contractors, Wall Street, and private equity), and U.S. foreign policy motivations (particularly arms sales and counterterrorism). His interdisciplinary approach bridges political science, security studies, and financial markets analysis, revealing how non-state actors and corporate entities influence national security outcomes.

Analysis of his 12 scholarly publications (2016-2025) shows evolving research trajectories: early work focused on terrorist strategies and insurgency dynamics, while recent publications increasingly examine financialization of the defense sector. The 2024-2025 output demonstrates particular emphasis on private equity's role in defense bankruptcy and U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, reflecting contemporary security challenges at the intersection of geopolitics and capital markets.

No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials. Regarding academic service, the available text contains no information about student advising relationships, research grants, or laboratory affiliations. His professional activities extend to policy commentary through outlets including Taiwan News and The Conversation, where he addresses national security implications of public health and private defense companies.