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Primed to Fight

Author

Listed:
  • Zeev Maoz

    (University of California, Davis, USA and Interdisciplinary Center, Herzliya, Israel)

Abstract

Ample empirical evidence suggests that there exist structural differences between groups of states in terms of conflict involvement rates. A small group of states accounts for most conflicts and wars in international politics. Another group of states managed to avoid conflict involvement for most of their history. These results are not surprising; they match the expectations of both experts and laypersons regarding the future of conflict in international politics. This study offers two tentative explanations for these structural patterns of conflict proneness and pacifism. Both explanations view these differential rates of conflict involvement as a result of a national selection process. The can syndrome suggests that certain states fight repeatedly because they view violent conflict as an efficient and effective instrument of policy. The must syndrome suggests that some states feel that conflict is their only way of dealing with a threatening international environment. I provide evidence supporting both explanations and discuss their implications for international politics.

Suggested Citation

  • Zeev Maoz, 2009. "Primed to Fight," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 26(5), pages 411-436, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:compsc:v:26:y:2009:i:5:p:411-436
    DOI: 10.1177/0738894209343976
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Harvey Starr & G. Thomas, 2002. "The 'Nature' of Contiguous Borders: Ease of Interaction, Salience, and the Analysis of Crisis," International Interactions, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 28(3), pages 213-235, July.
    2. Zeev Maoz & Randolph M. Siverson, 2008. "Bargaining, Domestic Politics, and International Context in the Management of War: A Review Essay," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 25(2), pages 171-189, April.
    3. Siverson, Randolph M. & Starr, Harvey, 1990. "Opportunity, Willingness, and the Diffusion of War," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 84(1), pages 47-67, March.
    4. Branislav L. Slantchev, 2004. "How Initiators End Their Wars: The Duration of Warfare and the Terms of Peace," American Journal of Political Science, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 48(4), pages 813-829, October.
    5. Lake, David A., 1992. "Powerful Pacifists: Democratic States and War," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 86(1), pages 24-37, March.
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