The Paradox of Peace

War or the threat of war may be endemic in international affairs, and as much as we may prefer peace it can sometimes seem out of reach. This of course can be frustrating, especially when conflict is longstanding and apparently provides little benefits. Indeed, it is often argued that it is optimistic about the benefits of peace that leads to conflict termination. Paradox of Peace calls into question this reliance on optimism, and suggests that pessimism may in fact be a far more powerful force for peace. That is, when leaders perceive little opportunity for gains through sustained conflict, the likelihood of peace through compromise may be most likely. Enemies accept compromise when they have come to believe that they will not be stronger in the future than they are in the present. Not gestures of conciliation but the threat or use of force is most likely to induce such pessimism. Orme introduces the reader to the straightforward logic of this argument, one that rests on the perceptions and calculations of political leaders who have domestic and international audiences. The accessible argument is then examined through a variety of cases from diverse historical periods.
Counterintuitive and thought provoking, Orme's book will challenge students to rethink assumptions and generate debate.