Question

Favoring balancing or bandwagoning: Which of the following statements are true regarding balancing and bandwagoning?

1) Balancing is more common than bandwagoning.
2) The stronger the state, the greater its tendency to balance. Weak states will balance against other weak states but may bandwagon when threatened by a great power.
3) The greater the probability of allied support, the greater the tendency to balance. When adequate allied support is certain, however, the tendency for free-riding or buck-passing increases.
4) The more unalterably aggressive a state is perceived to be, the greater the tendency for others to balance against it.
5) In wartime, the closer one side is to victory, the greater the tendency for others to bandwagon with it.

Answer 1

In international relations, balancing is more common than bandwagoning, with strong states tending to balance and weak states possibly bandwagoning with great powers. Allied support influences the tendency to balance, whereas certainty in such support may lead to free-riding. Perceptions of aggression and wartime dynamics also affect whether states balance or bandwagon.

Step-by-step explanation:

Regarding balancing and bandwagoning within the framework of international relations, certain tendencies can be observed:

1. Balancing is more common than bandwagoning, as states tend to ally with one another to prevent a single state from becoming too powerful, thus stabilizing the international system.
2. The stronger the state, the greater its tendency to balance. While weaker states may balance against other weak states, they may choose to bandwagon when faced with a threat from a great power.
3. The greater the probability of allied support, the higher the propensity to balance. However, if allied support seems adequate and assured, states may engage in free-riding or buck-passing instead.
4. States are more inclined to balance against a state perceived as unalterably aggressive, as this presents a clear and present danger to their security.
5. As a war progresses and one side appears closer to victory, there's a notable trend where other states bandwagon with the likely victor.

In terms of international politics, these tendencies underscore how states align themselves based on perceived threats, power dynamics, and the pursuit of their own national interests.