International Norms and the Resort to War

Focusing on the influence of international norms, this book challenges traditional views on the causes of war by arguing that moral frameworks shape military actions rather than mere power dynamics. It critiques the realist perspective that dismisses the efficacy of international legal norms without a strong enforcement mechanism. Through quantitative analysis, the author demonstrates that established normative orders can significantly lower the chances of conflict, providing a fresh lens on the interplay between ethics and global politics.