The Levels of Analysis Theory

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the levels of analysis theory and how it is used to explain the causes of war. The paper first defines the theory and offers varying interpretations on the application of the theory, and then looks at from where this theory originates. The paper also questions the idea of singling out one level of analysis to provide an explanation for causes of wars, and addresses the alternative issues facing the theory. The paper concludes that any attempt to simplify the analysis of the causes of war will run into difficulties, as the processes leading up to each war are unique to that particular conflict.

From the Paper:

"The levels of analysis debate, as we understand it today, can be said to have emerged from the works of Kenneth Waltz (amongst others), in his book 'Man, the State, and War' (originally published in 1959). In the book, we can see how his ideas about levels of analysis (Waltz uses the term 'images' instead of levels. (Waltz. 1994. p75)), stem from philosophical debate on the nature of man in society and draws upon the works of Rousseau, Milton, Machiavelli and Hobbes to historically and philosophically frame his theory. The two crucial questions he asks are, firstly, 'Can man in society best be understood by studying man or by studying society?' (Waltz. 1994. p71) and secondly, 'If we now confine our attention to the question of why wars occur, shall we emphasise the role of the state...or...the society of states?' (Waltz. 1994. p71)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Blainey, G. (1973). The Causes of War. London: Macmillan
• Buzan, B. (1995). The Level of Analysis Problem Reconsidered. In: Booth, K. & Smith, S., eds. International Relations Theory Today. Cambridge: Polity, pp198-216.
• Buzan, B., Jones, C., & Little, R. (1993). The Logic of Anarchy: Neorealism to Structural Realism. New York: Columbia University Press
• Howard, M. (2000). The Causes of Wars. In: Barash, D., ed. Approaches to Peace. Oxford: Oxford University Pres, pp36-42.
• Nye, J. (2003). Understanding International Conflicts: An Introduction to Theory and History. 4th. London; Longman.

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