Lemke: Regions of War and Peace
Lemke, Douglas. Regions of war and peace. Cambridge, UK; New York: Cambridge University Press, 2002.
The book begins with an overview of power transition theory juxtaposed with balance of power theory. "The critically important variables associated with war and peace within power transition theory are thus relative power relations and status quo evaluations" (25).
Lemke then applies the logic of power transition theory to regional levels. He deploys a "multiple hierarchy model" which argues that a regional "status quo" and dominant power is common, and that global powers do not frequently interfere with these regional dynamics (Vietnam and Korea are exceptions). "In spite of the fact that these authors variously use the terms lesser-, subordinate-, "inferiour"-, local-, or regional balances, they all seem to be suggesting the same thing; namely, the international balance or international system is a set of international systems arranged geographically, or in positions of relative inferiority/superiority, or both" (58).
He uses both COW CINC measures and GDP/GNP to measure relative power. The threshold for parity is 70 percent of the power of the dominant. He outlines regional groupings and and regional powers. Does much more than I describe here.
