Weapons Systems and Political Stability

by Carroll Quigley

On his death in 1977, Carroll Quigley, professor at Georgetown University, left a long, but incomplete, manuscript, which his colleagues have now put into print (by photocopy of the typescript) together with appreciative comments and a list of his publications. The author's objective is to enlighten Americans on "the history of weapons systems and tactics, with special reference to the influence that these have had on political life and the stability of political arrangements"

Genres: History, Politics, Military Fiction, World History, Military History, Nonfiction, Political Science

1043 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1983

About the author

American historian and theorist of the evolution of civilizations.

Noted for his teaching work as a professor at Georgetown University, for his academic publications, and for his research on secret societies.

He was an instructor at Princeton and Harvard; a consultant to the U.S. Department of Defense, the House Committee on Astronautics and Space Exploration; and the U.S. Navy.

Reviews

[Bria · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are too many things to say about this book to cover in the space I have here, so I will only address the 7 most important aspects, which are as follows:
(1) An inability to maintain constant forward motion in time. Are we talking about 1100 AD or 300 BC? Keeps you on your toes!
(2) Clearly superior and more insightful and accurate than all those other, foolish, misinformed historians.
(3) Thorough.ness. The only reason it is as short as it is is because Quigley's publisher sent a gremlin over to live in his house and start eating his manuscript whenever he spent more than 75 pages on one topic.
(4) A wide sweeping theme covering all of history yet distinguishing the wide ranging effects of small details. I love that shit.
(5) A mystical ability to see into and comprehend the deep psychological workings of peoples who lived hundreds and thousands of years ago and draw from that knowledge the consequences for the society of those people at large.
(6) A consistent and specific use of terms, complete with actually defining what he means when he says something (i.e. civilization), instead of just assuming we all already agree on what constitutes something vague.
(7) One of few, if any, 1000 page books I finish and then think to myself, 'Boy, maybe I want to read this again!'

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish he had been able to complete this work. Utterly fascinating

[noblethumos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weapon Systems and Political Stability, authored by Carroll Quigley and published in 1983, offers a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between weapon systems and political stability. This academic book review aims to provide a thorough assessment of Weapon Systems and Political Stability, exploring its main themes, arguments, and contributions to our understanding of the complex interplay between military technology, arms races, and political dynamics. Quigley's nuanced examination sheds light on the multifaceted implications of weapon systems in the context of international relations and domestic governance.

Weapon Systems and Political Stability delves into the influence of weapon systems on political stability at both the domestic and international levels. Quigley analyzes the impact of military technology on the balance of power, deterrence, arms races, and the potential for conflict escalation. The book explores the relationship between defense spending, technological advancements, and political decision-making, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in a rapidly evolving security landscape.


Weapon Systems and Political Stability offers a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the role of weapon systems in shaping political dynamics. Quigley draws from historical examples and empirical data to support his arguments, providing a rich foundation for understanding the complex interplay between military technology and political stability.

One of the key contributions of the book lies in Quigley's examination of the balance of power and deterrence. He explores how the acquisition and deployment of weapon systems by nation-states can shape strategic relationships, influence foreign policy decisions, and contribute to stability or instability. Quigley emphasizes the delicate equilibrium required to maintain stability, highlighting the dangers of arms races and the potential for unintended consequences arising from the pursuit of military superiority.

Moreover, Weapon Systems and Political Stability delves into the intricate relationship between defense spending, technological advancements, and political decision-making. Quigley explores how defense budgets and the development of weapon systems influence resource allocation, economic priorities, and societal dynamics. He highlights the potential trade-offs between military expenditures and investments in other critical areas, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.


Weapon Systems and Political Stability has made significant contributions to the fields of international relations, security studies, and political science. Quigley's analysis provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between military technology and political stability. The book prompts critical examination of the strategic implications of weapon systems, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with military capabilities in the contemporary security landscape.

Furthermore, Weapon Systems and Political Stability remains relevant in contemporary discussions on arms control, non-proliferation efforts, and the impact of technological advancements on international security. Quigley's work encourages scholars and policymakers to consider the broader political, economic, and social implications of weapon systems, fostering a more holistic approach to security policy and strategic decision-making.


Weapon Systems and Political Stability, authored by Carroll Quigley, provides a nuanced examination of the relationship between military technology and political dynamics. Quigley's analysis sheds light on the influence of weapon systems on the balance of power, deterrence, and stability. The book's exploration of defense spending, technological advancements, and their implications for political decision-making offers valuable insights into the complexities of contemporary security challenges. Weapon Systems and Political Stability remains a significant contribution to international relations and security studies, stimulating critical inquiry into the multifaceted interplay between military capabilities and political stability.

GPT

[Tommy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The essential difference between a shock weapon and a missile weapon is this: a missile weapon is either fired or it isn't fired. It cannot be half fired. Once you let it go, it's out of your control. It is a killing weapon. But a shock weapon—a billy club or a bayonet—can be used to any degree you wish.

Covers a ton of ground from the palaeolithic to bronze age geopolitics, the rise/fall of providential empires, nomadic raiders all right up to the hundred years war. Not well edited and more politics than tactics.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book! Professor Carroll Quigley left us so many amazing literary works, and to be able to discover a new publication that has been made available for the first time in 30 years is such a treat!