The Causes of War and the Spread of Peace: But Will War Rebound?

Warfare is a subject that, even today, when it can be argued that the World seems to be becoming a safer place, still seems to fascinate Humankind, both attracting and repelling simultaneously while producing strong emotions. In this well researched book, Gat examines a variety of opposing arguments as to the possible causes and puts forwards suggestions that might eliminate it, once and for all. Although a serious work, it is, due to the the author's excellent communication skills, very accessible and most will find it a highly informative and engrossing read. Don't expect to agree with everything you read in it. Considering whether Humans are genetically wired for war or are just a bunch of envious, greedy hooligans I found particularly intriguing, but there are bags of brilliant insights to be discovered and considered in working through the book. There are some black and white illustrations, plus maps and graphs to help understanding. For those who wish to delve deeper, there are detailed notes on each chapter and an excellent index. I would like to think we could, as a species, eliminate war, but I'm not so sure we can!

Whilst I might question some of the assertions made in this book I thought it was an excellent account of human predisposition in terms of conflict. There are lots of fascinating historical events and episodes laid bare with some interesting connections made. It is the type of book that you have to continually pause whilst reading to digest a point or give some consideration to. A really great read.

Azar Gat can be relied upon to deliver erudite, thought-provoking books and this a good addition to his works. His analysis is wide ranging and accessible, with an ease of narrative that belies the depth of detail and focus as many complex socio-political and economic issues are probed, discussed and commented on. It's a rewarding read that expertly shows how complex- and precarious- our supposed 'world order' is, and there is far from a western liberal hegemony that can confidently declare 'the end of history.'