This course is designed to familiarize students with the theoretical and empirical literature on the onset, expansion, and consequences of interstate war and the conditions for peace. Among the theories reviewed will be bargaining theory, power transition theory, the territorial explanation of war, and the democratic peace. Emphasized will be the role of alliances, arms races, and crisis escalation in generating conflict processes, and the effects of norms, regimes, and institutions on building peace. The goal of this seminar is the development of critical thinking, analysis, and application.
The main task each class will be a discussion of the reading assignment. Critical analyses of the readings are expected; discussions should outline both the flaws and relative merits of the readings as well as possible extensions and connections to other areas of the field. Students should also think about applying the materials discussed in class to contemporary issues of conflict in the world.