Balance of Power

Theory and Practice in the 21st Century

T.V. Paul, James J. Wirtz, Michel Fortmann

• Publisher: Stanford University Press
• Year: 2004
• Print ISBN: 9780804750172
• eBook ISBN: 9780804767422
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Politics & International Relations
• Subtopic: Political History & Theory
• Index: Politics & International Relations

Since the 16th century, balance of power politics have profoundly influenced international relations. But in recent years—with the sudden disappearance of the Soviet Union, growing power of the United States, and increasing prominence of international institutions—many scholars have argued that balance of power theory is losing its relevance. This book examines the current position and future of balance of power dynamics in international politics.

In this book, prominent scholars pay special attention to the theoretical and historical criticisms of balance of power theory while empirically assessing its validity at both global and regional levels. The volume also looks at systemic factors favoring or hindering a return to balance of power politics. It evaluates the challenges posed by subnational actors, such as terrorist groups, and weapons of mass destruction to international order. Further, it examines the relevance of balance of power axioms in selected regions: Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and Latin America.

Table of contents

• Copyright Page
• Table of Contents
• List of Tables
• Acknowledgments
• About the Editors and Contributors
• Introduction: The Enduring Axioms of Balance of Power Theory and Their Contemporary Relevance
• PART I - Theories of Balance of Power and Major Powers
• PART II - New Security Challenges and Balance of Power
• PART III - Regional Subsystems and Balance of Power
• Conclusions: Balance of Power at the Turn of the New Century
• Index