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War and Systemic Capability Reconcentration

Author

Listed:
  • William R. Thompson

    (Center for Politics and Policy, Claremont Graduate School)

  • Karen A. Rasler

    (Political Science, University of California, Riverside)

Abstract

Historical-structural analyses of world politics tend to emphasize the theoretical significance of a handful of wars that over the past several hundred years have demarcated important changes in systemic structure. However, analysts do not fully agree on which wars have constituted the benchmarks of structural change and transition. Nor do they agree completely on the definitional criteria to be employed in identifying such wars. In addressing these questions, we review and discuss the similarities and differences found in five definitions of systemic war. We also respond to a recent critique of the definitional practice of stressing war consequences. Moreover, an empirical validation of the long cycle of global leadership perspective's choice of global wars is undertaken by assessing the impact of a slate of candidate wars on nearly 500 years of fluctuations in systemic capability concentration.

Suggested Citation

  • William R. Thompson & Karen A. Rasler, 1988. "War and Systemic Capability Reconcentration," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 32(2), pages 335-366, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jocore:v:32:y:1988:i:2:p:335-366
    DOI: 10.1177/0022002788032002005
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Ward, Michael Don, 1984. "Differential Paths to Parity: A Study of the Contemporary Arms Race," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 78(2), pages 297-317, June.
    2. Doran, Charles F. & Parsons, Wes, 1980. "War and the Cycle of Relative Power," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 74(4), pages 947-965, December.
    3. Rasler, Karen A. & Thompson, William R., 1985. "War Making and State Making: Governmental Expenditures, Tax Revenues, and Global Wars," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 79(2), pages 491-507, June.
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