Inequality and Identity: Causes of War?
2012 (English)Report (Other academic)
Abstract [en]
In this paper, four theories on the causes of civil war are reviewed. One theory, associated with Paul Collier, emphasises feasibility over factors related to grievance. A second theory, espoused by Frances Stewart, focuses on the role of horizontal inequalities. The third theory, identified with William Zartman, highlights the different roles “need, creed and greed” factors play in various phases of a conflict. And the fourth theory, associated with the World Bank /World Development Report 2011, points out “commitment” problems leading to institutional failures as a crucial factor. Each of the theories leads to quite different policy conclusions. Their strengths and weaknesses, and their claimed empirical support, are discussed.In addition, some of the mechanisms underpinning the theories are highlighted on the basis of empirical data. In particular, the central role of horizontal inequalities between social groups is discussed.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
Uppsala: Nordiska Afrikainstitutet, 2012. , p. 42
Series
Discussion Paper, ISSN 1104-8417 ; 72
Keywords [en]
Africa, Civil war, Conflicts, Social inequality, Cultural identity, Intergroup relations, Social control, Theory, Comparative analysis
National Category
Other Social Sciences
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:nai:diva-1518ISBN: 978-91-7106-714-2 (print)OAI: oai:DiVA.org:nai-1518DiVA, id: diva2:506995
Note
CONTENTS: Abstract -- Introduction -- PART 1. Four stories on inequality and identity as causes of civil war -- PART 2. Empirical explorations -- Conclusion -- References -- Annex 1: Data -- Annex 2: Countries in Afrobarometer round 4 and ethnic groups
2012-03-012012-03-012021-12-20Bibliographically approved