Neorealism, States, and the Modern Mass Army

This book examines why countries copy the military systems of one another.

Joao Resende-Santos (Author)

9780521869485, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 30 July 2007

332 pages, 4 tables
23.5 x 15.5 x 2.1 cm, 0.56 kg

"This is an important book that will be a 'must read' for scholars studying IR theory, state-building and the Latin American military. Resende-Santos’ theory of emulation extends Neo-Realism into new areas and rejuvenates the IR field. The case studies themselves present original and important empirical material that will benefit scholarship across a variety of disciplines."
David Mares, University of California, San Diego

Examines why countries imitate the military systems of one another. A book of theory and history, it builds on and extends the most influential theory in international relations - neorealism. It offers an alternative account for emulation and convergence in the international system. It explains why states make certain choices in how to organize, prepare, and fight wars, and how international structures shape their choices. The work develops a neglected area of neorealism, applies it in new ways, widens its explanatory scope, and offers three rich - and uncommon - historical cases based on archival research.

1. Military emulation in the international system
2. Theory of military emulation
3. Arms and states in nineteenth century South America
4. Military emulation in Chile, 1885–1914
5. Military emulation in Argentina, 1895–1930
6. Military emulation in Brazil, 1870–1930
7. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Warfare & defence [JW], Political control & freedoms [JPV], International relations [JPS], Political parties [JPL], Political structure & processes [JPH], Comparative politics [JPB], Political science & theory [JPA]