Dissertations and Theses @ UNI
Availability
Open Access Thesis
Keywords
Balance of power; International relations--Philosophy;
Abstract
Balance of power is a recurring theme in international relations theory. Balance of power theory comes out of the realist school of thought and is one of the most debated theories in international relations theory. The theory has drawn criticism for ignoring the role of domestic politics, which other theorists have corrected for. In addition, the idea of balance, that there exists a stable equilibrium point, is a prevalent theme in international relations theory. Other scholars have built on balance of power theory and its ideas about systemic incentives that drive or constrain states in the international system towards a balanced point. Three theories of international relations, balance of power, balance of interest, and consistency theory are tested against an historical/regional case: the Middle East from 1955-1967. These theories attempt to explain the causes of conflict and cooperation (in this case alliance formation) in the international system. The purpose is to discover which theory best explains the events of the region during this time period, make suggestions for further research, and suggest ways the theories can be approved upon. What is found is that domestic politics cannot be wholly ignored if one is to have an adequate understanding of the events of this case. Furthermore, each theory has its own strengths and weaknesses, highlights different aspects of the events in the case, and leaves open many doors for further research and theorizing.
Year of Submission
2002
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Department of Political Science
First Advisor
Dhirendra Vajpeyi
Second Advisor
Steven Lobell
Third Advisor
Pita Agbese
Date Original
2002
Object Description
1 PDF file (69 leaves)
Copyright
©2002 Ryan Fitzharris
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Recommended Citation
Fitzharris, Ryan, "Balance of Power, Interest, and Consistency in the Middle East From 1955-1967" (2002). Dissertations and Theses @ UNI. 2635.
https://scholarworks.uni.edu/etd/2635
Comments
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