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The behavioral power of nations: an analysis of verbal conflict using the equations of statistical equilibrium

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Abstract

In this article, we define and explore the behavioral aspects of power. Power is conceptualized and measured as a characteristic of simultaneous influence relationships among nation-states, rather than as an attribute possessed by nation-states. An analytical definition of one nation-state's ability to produce behavior in other nation-states is developed. Using data on the behavioral interactions of contemporary nation-states, these ideas are examined empirically in a subset of fifty nation-states. Behavioral power is compared with various measures of power capabilities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. US WEST Advanced Technologies, Englewood, CO, USA

    Lewis L. House

  2. Program on Political and Economic Change, Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado, 80309, Boulder, CO, USA

    Michael D. Ward

  3. Center for International Relations, Department of Political Science, University of Colorado, 80309, Boulder, CO, USA

    Michael D. Ward

Authors
  1. Lewis L. House
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  2. Michael D. Ward
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Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or institutions.

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House, L.L., Ward, M.D. The behavioral power of nations: an analysis of verbal conflict using the equations of statistical equilibrium. Qual Quant 22, 167–189 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00223040

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