The responsibilities of democracies in preventing deadly conflict

"The specific question we explore is: What are the special roles and responsibilities of democracies in preventing deadly conflict, not only between themselves, but also among other states in the international system? As David Hamburg has observed, the established democracies "are likely to take the lead in formulating international norms of conduct with respect to intergroup relations, the proliferation of highly lethal weaponry, economic development in poorer nations, human rights, and the growth of democratic institutions. . The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a prime example of the ability of the established democracies to work together. . ." Hamburg then goes on to ask provocatively: "Could a similar alliance, involving a wider coalition of democracies, be organized to ensure security on a worldwide basis, fuel economic growth with fairness, protect cultural diversity, and foster democratic values?"2 We focus here on the particular roles and responsibilities of democracies not to diminish the significance of other essential actors. Rather, recognizing that democracies wield great power, we explore their commensurate obligation to assume great responsibilities. At the outset, it may be useful."--Page 2.