Realist Hypotheses on Regional Peace

Abstract

This is primarily a theoretical article. It aspires to fill the void left by realist neglect of regional analysis. The article starts with a presentation of a power-based analysis of the interaction between systemic and regional level actors, and of basic patterns of regional stability, conflict and peace. Next, it offers two amendments to the conventional realist analysis of regions. The first amendment discusses regional order in terms of unit-types; the second discusses regional order while referring to conventional realism, the English School and constructivist principles. The article concludes with a brief discussion of different realist visions of regional order and their analyses of the prospects of Middle Eastern peace.