Thucydides on Great Power Competition
Abstract
The timeless nature of Thucydides's History of the Peloponnesian War provides insight on modern relations between the U.S. and other great powers, with underlying notions that can inform grand strategies and illuminate how fear, honor, and interest drive great power competition. In the 5th Century BC, Thucydides wrote his History of the Peloponnesian War, not simply to recount the events of a war, but with the intent of illuminating what he viewed as fundamental truths about the nature of man and war. The Peloponnesian War was fought from 431-404 BC between the city-states of Athens and Sparta, resulting in a Spartan victory which destroyed the Athenian Empire and the worlds first democracy. Like many wars, its causes were murky and debatable, its proceedings were just as unpredictable as the men who waged it, and the impact on the states who waged it was profound. Throughout the History, Thucydides detailed his observations and opinions in an effort to educate his readers on lessons that could be learned which would far transcend the ancient war that was the subject of his scholarship. The History is remarkable for its depth and detail, equal treatment of both belligerents, and a complete refrain from using mythology and religion as an explanation for events. Political scientist Robert Gilpin wrote that the History "is as meaningful a guide to the behavior of states today as when it was written in the 5th century BC," and believed that Thucydides would have no trouble understanding great power politics as they exist today. Although the Peloponnesian War was fought primarily on the geography of only three modern countries, at the time it involved over 200 sovereign city-states and empires, thus offering a wealth of material for the study of great power politics and interstate warfare. If fear, honor, and interest are in fact the three strongest motives, restraint is the counterweight that can slow the inexorable churn towards unnecessary wars.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 10, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1177303
Entities
People
- Timothy R. Kronjaeger
Organizations
- Marine Corps University