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Past Event
Seminar

Neighbors and Hegemons: Why States Balance or Bandwagon

Open to the Public

Why do states sometimes balance against the potential hegemon, while at other times they bandwagon with it? This question is a the center of the balance of power literature, yet current theories provide few concrete predictions of how different states behave. This seminar will examine how the choice is a function of the relative threat each state faces from its neighbors and the potential hegemon. The argument is tested by looking at how Austria responded to France from 1683 to 1797.

Please join us! Coffee and tea provided. Everyone is welcome, but admittance will be on a first come–first served basis.

Date: Time: - Location: Littauer Building - Belfer Center Library, Room 369
This map shows Europe in the years after the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle 1748 and the Seven Years' War (1756–1763). Europe did not see another major geographical change until 1766.

About

Why do states sometimes balance against the potential hegemon, while at other times they bandwagon with it? This question is a the center of the balance of power literature, yet current theories provide few concrete predictions of how different states behave. This seminar will examine how the choice is a function of the relative threat each state faces from its neighbors and the potential hegemon. The argument is tested by looking at how Austria responded to France from 1683 to 1797.

Please join us! Coffee and tea provided. Everyone is welcome, but admittance will be on a first come–first served basis.