Going Nuclear
Abstract: The prominence of several ``big picture'' issues---such as global warming, energy security, and an energy economy---has meant that countries are beginning to seriously consider adopting nuclear technology as a source for energy. This trend has implications with regard to the proliferation of nuclear weapons, especially in places such as the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula. This paper aims to develop a model of country decisionmaking that takes into account the game-theoretic considerations involved in the production of weapons versus energy, especially in the presence of a player that has already acquired weapons. It finds that, while economic considerations can potentially offset the desire to acquire nuclear weapons acquisition, the presence of a nuclear-armed neighbor will lead to a race-to-the-bottom outcome where countries find it in their interest to proliferate. Policy implications of the analysis are also considered.
Notes: Prepared for CSIS's PONI Nuclear Scholars Initiative. | Published
Sticks and Carrots
Abstract: In this note, we introduce two distinct incentive mechanisms that support dynamic intra-group cooperation in the context of prisoner's dilemma payoffs. The first mechanism involves a reward for cooperating, where the rewarding party may be outside a given relationship. The second mechanism involves a punishment for defection, where the punishing party may be outside the relationship. We also discuss how these mechanisms are relevant in real-world groups such as criminal gangs and military platoons.
Notes: Coauthored with Thorsten Janus. | Published
Atoms for Peace, Redux
Abstract: The likelihood that North Korea possesses nuclear weapons is a clear and present danger to sustained stability in the Korean peninsula. Unfortunately, the traditional notion of ``Atoms for Peace'' has been a failure in the engagement of the North. In this paper we propose a novel approach to mutual cooperation in energy provision in the Korean peninsula, premised on having North Korea host reactors that deliver energy to South Korea. We establish conditions where there exists a stable, time-consistent equilibrium where the North never finds it in its interest to disrupt energy supplies to the South, and where the South is willing to pay the fixed costs of nuclear plant construction, in exchange for a discounted stream of energy supply from the North.
Notes: Coauthored with Kyle Beardsley. | Online Appendix | Brief | Poster
Recognition, Redistribution, and Liberty
Abstract: This paper examines the relationship between redistribution, recognition, and liberty. In particular, it critiques the arguments made by authors such as Fraser & Honneth (2003) about how redistribution is a simple subset of recognition, and how recognition is both necessary and sufficient for redistribution to occur. It argues, instead, that it is the relatively weak assumption of (minimal) individual liberty that allows recognition (and hence redistribution) to exist, and that while recognition is necessary, it is insufficient for redistribution, if liberty is to be respected. Finally, it shows that this approach is, ultimately, a more robust and sustainable strategy to understanding the problems posed by discrimination and social inequality.
Notes: Coauthored with Anne Collins. | Foils | Published
Toward a Theory of the Modern State
Abstract: This paper seeks to make a case for a theory of the modern state that is premised on the constituents of the state: Its citizens. The central argument is that the chimera that has been termed the ``state'' is, in effect, primarily an institutional structure that constrains the actions and behavior of the agents that make up its core. While not dismissing the existence of the idea of a state in terms of rhetoric, conceptualization, and practice, we argue that the entity is best understood as a dispassionate, neutral institution that is shaped by both domestic and international events and pressures, through its citizen-agents. The paper begins with a critique of the existing approaches to establishing a theory of the modern state, followed by a review of common rebuttals; it goes on to sketch the theoretical framework that is the core of the paper. We argue that this approach, which allows for the state to be endogenous in its formation and change, while not possessing any imbued characteristics of its own, is a more attractive approach to understanding the modern state.
Notes: Under preparation. | Foils
Role of State in a Borderless World
Abstract: Modern theories of relations between states seem to advocate polarized worlds, where nations are either headed toward inter-civilizational clashes or liberal-democratic uniformity. Similarly, theories of globalization posit either hyperglobalization or more state-centric scenarios. While it is unlikely that such extremities are realistic, states would need to remain relevant by adopting policies that understand and embrace these tensions in a globalized world. This essay seeks to formulate a framework for understanding the role of the state in a world where borders are becoming increasingly transparent. In doing so, it adopts a multidisciplinary perspective, drawing from research in international economics, global politics, and sociology. It links theory to application by arguing that the role of the state is to address each of these rationales for state formation, in the context of globalization. As traditional rationales for state formation and existence are rapidly being redefined, states need to adapt to these altered circumstances. This essay shows that there exist policy options that would allow the state to play a central role in this transition.
Notes: An extended policy essay. | Published
Jesus versus Jihad
Abstract: At the turn of the century, Indonesia was at the forefront of international attention, due to its multi-dimensional conflicts from Aceh in the west to Irian Jaya in the east that threatened to tear the nation, already stricken by economic crisis, apart. This paper seeks to critically examine the various economic, social, and political aspects of Indonesia that have led to the sectarian conflict in various parts of the archipelago, which threatened the very integrity of the Indonesian republic.
Notes: An extensive case study, using primary sources and the academic literature. | Published
Between Petrograd and Seattle
Abstract: The recent backlash against globalization is but a reminder of the persistence of socialist and neomarxist ideology, despite its intellectual and practical bankruptcy. This essay reexamines this phenomenon, and argues that this is no paradox, but merely a continuation of a long intellectual tradition, reintroduced by historical circumstance, and reinforced by a confluence of reasons that renders it relevant in modern day context. In particular, these reasons include the perception of the seeming unsustainability of capitalist expansion, an erroneous interpretation of world income distribution, and the intellectual synergy between socialist/neomarxist and postmodern theory. It concludes by drawing some implications that arise from the analysis, as it pertains to the future of ongoing debate in the field.
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