English

Self-Organized Characteristics of the International System

Adaptation and Self-Organizing Systems 2014-09-25 v2

Abstract

Various self-organized characteristics of the international system can be identified with the help of a complexity science perspective. The perspective discussed in this article is based on various complexity science concepts and theories, and concepts related to ecology and ecosystems. It can be argued that the Great Power war dynamics of the international system in Europe during the period 1480-1945, showed self-organized critical (SOC) characteristics, resulting in a punctuated equilibrium dynamic. It seems that the SOC-characteristics of the international system and the punctuated equilibrium dynamic were - in combination with chaotic war dynamics - functional in a process of social expansion in Europe. According to a model presented in this article, population growth was a component of the driving force of the international system during this time frame. The findings of this exploratory research project contradict with generally held opinions in International Relations theory.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.0707.0348,
  title  = {Self-Organized Characteristics of the International System},
  author = {Ingo Piepers},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:0707.0348},
  year   = {2014}
}

Comments

Withdrawn. New framework developed in "War: Origins and Effects" arXiv:1409.6163

R2 v1 2026-06-21T08:54:36.699Z