Dimensions of Power as Illustrated in a Steady-State Model of Conflict.

摘要

This Note contains a theoretical analysis of the determinants of power, defined as the ability to achieve one's goals in the presence of rivals. The analysis deals with contending decisionmakers who have mixed incentives: potential mutual gains from cooperation exist, but on the other hand each side may have an opportunity to profit from conflictual efforts aimed at capturing a larger share of that common gain. The most important human associations are all characterized by such mixed cooperative-conflictual incentives. Among the many examples are international relations, the clash of factions within alliances and committees, struggles between capital and labor, and even the contests for advantage that take place within the family. The Note should therefore be of interest to a wide range of researchers in political science, economics, and sociology.