Explaining Relative Peace: Major Power Order,1816-1976

Abstract

Defining peace as the absence of war has been of limited usefulness in understanding the systemic and dyadic conditions that lead to changes in the explicit use of interstate force in the international system. Building on the recent work of Wallensteen (1984) and Midlarsky (1988), this study offers an empirical analysis which explores whether the collective policies of state decision-makers matter in the maintenance of relative international peace over the period 1816 to 1976. The results of the analysis suggest that past efforts of major powers to establish limited international orders have mattered in the promotion of international peace. Further research into the dynamics of international dispute processes is needed if we are to advance our understanding of the conditions of peace and the causes of war.