The causes of war

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Chapter 2 in The Economics of War, 2019, pp 11-33 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: A number of theories and hypotheses have been suggested to explain war, but almost all explanations involve economic/financial dimensions. Apart from wars fought in self-defence and revolutionary wars, financial and economic gains seem to be what motivate the initiation of war. Throughout history warring countries fought over resources, including gold, silver, cattle, horses and even humans who would serve as slaves. The declared motive is often a pretext for launching war whereas the hidden motive is the real cause of war. The causes of war, which on the surface are quite divergent, can be reconciled under one theme. What appears to be a war that is fought for reasons other than economic gain is actually fought for economic gain.

Keywords: Economics and Finance; Politics and Public Policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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