Evolutionary theories of violent conflict, bellicosity and radicalization (original) (raw)

Changing patterns of warfare require a revision of our theories of psychological mechanisms behind violent conflict. The article explains some evolutionary theories that can improve our understanding of the deep-rooted psychological mechanisms behind bellicosity, radicalization, escalation, and cultural changes related to war. An evolutionary theory called regality theory explains why collective danger can lead to political and religious radicalization and move a culture in an authoritarian, bellicose, and undemocratic direction. This theory also reveals why both terrorism and counterterrorism tactics are likely to be counterproductive. Biological theory of sexual selection explains why, historically, most warriors and war leaders have been men. A combination of these theories explains the psychological and cultural mechanisms that leaders and military strategists have exploited in the tactics of false flag attacks and other deceptive manipulations of fear. The territorial peace theory explains why democracy cannot be imposed by military means. This kind of causal theories can be very useful for conflict and peace research and for peacemaking.