Abstract
We study deterrence in sequential move conflicts, modeled as a contest. We bias the model in
favor of peace by assuming that under complete information deterrence is achieved and peace
prevails. We show that under incomplete information about states’ types (resolve) the chances
of deterrence decrease rapidly. Studying a uniform type distribution, we show that the finer
the type space becomes the more resolve a defending state must have to support deterrence
in equilibrium. In the limit, as types occur on a continuum, deterrence is possible only under
relatively extreme conditions.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 43-57 |
Number of pages | 15 |
Journal | Journal of Theoretical Politics |
Volume | 27 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |