Why We Are at War (2nd Edition, revised)   By: University of Oxford. Faculty of Modern History

Why We Are at War (2nd Edition, revised) is a thought-provoking compilation of essays written by the esteemed faculty of modern history at the University of Oxford. In this book, the authors delve deep into the complex and multifaceted reasons behind why nations find themselves embroiled in conflicts and shed light on the enduring question of why war continues to persist in our world.

One of the key strengths of this book lies in its meticulous research and scholarly analysis. The contributors draw from a wide range of historical sources, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical, economic, and sociocultural factors that have historically influenced conflicts. The rich and diverse perspectives presented throughout the book allow readers to explore different angles and interpretations of war, ultimately fostering a more nuanced and well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.

The second edition of Why We Are at War builds upon the success of its predecessor, incorporating revisions and updates that further enhance and deepen the discussions. The inclusion of additional case studies covering various conflicts across time and geography helps readers to identify recurring patterns in international relations and gain a more holistic understanding of the overarching themes at play in war.

Furthermore, the book doesn't shy away from addressing controversial topics and presenting contrasting viewpoints. The authors engage in rigorous debates surrounding militarism, nationalism, imperialism, and the role of ideology in fueling conflicts. This open and honest approach encourages readers to critically analyze the different perspectives and form their own well-informed opinions.

However, it is worth noting that the book's academic tone and dense writing style may be challenging for readers without a strong prior knowledge of global history and politics. Some chapters delve into intricate details and require a certain level of intellectual commitment to fully grasp the concepts. Nevertheless, for those willing to invest the time and effort, the rewards are significant.

Why We Are at War (2nd Edition, revised) is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in comprehending the motivations and underlying causes of war. By examining the historical context, the book serves as a sobering reminder of the complex web of factors that contribute to conflicts, urging us to confront these issues head-on in order to strive for a more peaceful world. Overall, the book stands as a testament to the extensive research conducted by the esteemed faculty at the University of Oxford, establishing it as an authoritative work in the field of modern history.

First Page:

We are not politicians, and we belong to different schools of political thought. We have written this book to set forth the causes of the present war, and the principles which we believe to be at stake. We have some experience in the handling of historic evidence, and we have endeavoured to treat this subject historically. Our fifth chapter, which to many readers will be the most interesting, is founded upon first hand evidence the documents contained in the British White Book (Parliamentary Paper, Cd. 7467; hereafter cited as Correspondence respecting the European Crisis ), and the German White Book, which is an official apology, supplemented by documents. The German White Book, as being difficult of access, we have printed in extenso . It exists in two versions, a German and an English, both published for the German Government. We have reproduced the English version without correcting the solecisms of spelling and expression. From the English White Book we have reprinted, in the second appendix, a small selection of the more significant documents; many more are quoted in the body of our work... Continue reading book >>