The need for a weaving together of the strands of this book seems greater than is the case with most volumes. The reason for this is that I address three interrelated tasks in this book. The first is an evaluation of the multiple hierarchy model extension of power transition theory to minor power regions, necessitating consideration of whether such an extension is justifiable. The second task is empirical identification of what a regional sub-system is. Unless regional sub-systems of the international system are objectively identified, extensions of great power theories to the minor power level cannot be empirically evaluated. The final task is an exploration of possible sources of persistent cross-regional variation in the relationships between power parity, status quo evaluations, and war onset. All three of these tasks have been accomplished, at least partially, in the preceding chapters. However, my book offers only a first perspective on each, and more can clearly be done to address all three. The third section below lays out steps likely to help any effort to move beyond my preliminary achievements.

Summary

Power transition theory was created to account for great power interactions. No clearer statement of this is needed than Organski and Kugler's own recognition that their work could: