Nationalism and Identity: Nationalism and the desire to protect one's national identity and interests can lead to tensions and conflicts between nations.
Economic Competition: Competition for resources, markets, and trade opportunities can create economic rivalries and conflicts between nations.
Territorial Disputes: Disputes over territory, borders, and natural resources can be a significant source of tension and conflict between nations.
Ideological Differences: Ideological differences, such as conflicts between democracy and authoritarianism, can lead to ideological clashes and conflicts between nations.
Security Concerns: Concerns about national security, such as threats to territorial integrity or sovereignty, can lead nations to take military action to protect their interests.
Alliance Systems: Alliances between nations can create obligations and entanglements that can draw nations into conflicts even if they do not have a direct stake in the dispute.
Domestic Politics: Domestic political factors, such as the need to divert attention from internal problems or to rally public support, can influence a nation's decision to go to war.
Failed Diplomacy: The breakdown of diplomatic efforts and negotiations can lead nations to resort to military force as a means of resolving conflicts.
Military Power and Prestige: The pursuit of military power and prestige can lead nations to engage in conflicts in order to demonstrate their strength and influence.
Stoessinger argues that these factors are not exhaustive, and that the causes of war are often complex and multifaceted. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying motivations and dynamics of conflicts in order to develop effective strategies for preventing or resolving them.