International Norms and the Resort to War

Focusing on the influence of international norms, this book challenges traditional views on war's onset by rejecting the emphasis on material capabilities like wealth and military strength. It critiques the realist perspective that international legal norms are ineffective without a central authority, arguing instead that the normative context shapes national leaders' actions. Through quantitative analysis, the author illustrates how restrictive normative orders can decrease the likelihood of armed conflict, offering a fresh lens on power, morality, and the dynamics of world politics.