Macro · Structures & Institutions Stub 1958

Power Transition Theory

세력전이론

A structural international relations theory positing that international order is hierarchical, and major wars occur when a dissatisfied rising challenger approaches power parity with the dominant status-quo state.

Field International Relations · Political Science
Level of analysis Macro · Structures & Institutions
Paradigm Realism Evolutionary Approach
Key figures 👤 A. F. K. Organski (A. F. K. 오간스키)
Year 1958

Key Claims

A. F. K. Organski rejected the balance-of-power thesis, arguing that the international system is naturally hierarchical. Major systemic conflict erupts when rapid internal socio-economic modernization allows a dissatisfied rising power to achieve power parity with the dominant state, prompting preemptive or revisionist warfare.

Further Reading

  • Organski, A. F. K. (1958). World Politics. Alfred A. Knopf.
  • Kugler, J., & Organski, A. F. K. (1989). The power transition: A retrospective and prospective evaluation. In M. I. Midlarsky (Ed.), Handbook of War Studies (pp. 171–194). Unwin Hyman.

Related theories 3개