The Origins of Alliances (Cornell Studies in Security Affairs)(Reprint)

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Summary: How Perceptions Matter in Alliance Formation?
Review: Balance of power theory is one of the basic pillars of (neo)realist theory of international relations. It basically argues that states balance against the rising power since it creates a vital problem for their security. Since states are living in anarchical self-help world they should balance against the rising state(s). In this sense, Stephen M. Walt's The Origins of Alliances challenges this theory. Walt criticizes balance of power theory in arguing that states balance against perceived threats rather than only powers. He examines his theory under the light of the Middle East alliances from 1955 to 1979. His case is composed of thirty-six separate bilateral and multilateral alliance commitments and eighty-six national decisions. After the examination of these alliance structures he argues that balance of threat thesis provides a better grasp on alliance formation in the Middle East than variables of ideology, foreign aid, and political penetration. On the other hand, he holds also geographic proximity, offensive capabilities, and perceived intentions as important elements in alliance politics. Walt also claims that aggregate power (including population, individual and military capabilities, technical prowess), geographic proximity, offensive power, and aggregate intentions all affect the level of threat. Moreover, he observes balancing is more common than bandwagoning behavior in reference to the Middle East alliances in this period.He also states that weak states as compared to strong states are more likely to bandwagon rather than balance against rising powers. In general, Walt's The Origins of Alliances is an important study in demonstrating the role of perceptions in alliance politics and international relations in general well beyond material capabilities and power structures.

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Summary: The best guide to Alliance Formation available
Review: Stephen Walt's formulation of alliance behavior is the best attempt to explain alliances yet. He argues that states ally to counter againt not just power, as has generally been postulate, but against threat. He defines threat as a result of four factors: Power, geography, offensive weapons, and perceived intentions. To play out his theory he draws upon the Middle East after World War two as his case study. It is a fascinating and well-written history, which he used quite well to back his theory. He closes with a section applying his theory to US-Soviet relations in the 1980's. This book should be read by anyone who wants to understand international relations as a whole, not just alliance behavior.