Chapter 1

1. Melanie McDonagh maintains that wars are fought because of decisions made by political leaders. Ken Coates argues that impoverished nations have unstable governments and are therefore at a higher risk for fighting wars. David A. Lake and Donald Rothchild contend that one group will attack another group out of fear for its security. How does Matthew Parris respond to these arguments? Which viewpoint do you think is strongest? Explain your answer.
2. This chapter examines several alternatives for the causes of wars. Can you think of other explanations that were not included in this chapter? Give examples of wars that were fought for those reasons.

Chapter 2

1. Lionel Rosenblatt and Larry Thompson argue that a standing international army sponsored by the United Nations is necessary to maintain peace in small, intrastate wars. Do you think their proposal is a viable option for maintaining peace? Why...