Soldiers, Peasants, and Bureaucrats: Civil-Military Relations in Communist and Modernizing Societies

This book, first published in 1981, examines the main theoretical, methodological, and empirical approaches to the study of the military in modernizing political systems, in socialist and non-socialist countries, and analyzes civil-military relations in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and China, shedding new light on the comparative politics and strategic affairs of the Cold War period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1981, is a comprehensive examination of the main theoretical, methodological, and empirical approaches to the study of the military in modernizing political systems, in socialist and non-socialist countries. It analyzes civil-military relations in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and China, and in doing so sheds new light on the comparative politics and strategic affairs of the Cold War period.

The book explores the complex dynamics between the military and civilian sectors of government, examining how they interact and influence each other's policies and decision-making processes. It also examines the role of the military in promoting or obstructing political change, and the challenges that arise from military interventions in civilian affairs.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between military power and political legitimacy. The author argues that the military can either strengthen or undermine a country's political legitimacy, depending on how it is used and controlled. The book also explores the different types of military regimes that have emerged in the past century, including authoritarian, democratic, and hybrid regimes, and examines the factors that contribute to their success or failure.

Another important theme of the book is the impact of globalization on the military. The author argues that the increasing interconnectedness of the world's economies and societies has led to a greater role for the military in promoting economic development and security. However, it has also created new challenges for the military, such as the need to adapt to new technologies and the increasing complexity of international relations.

The book also provides a detailed analysis of the civil-military relations in three key regions: the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and China. In each region, the author examines the historical background, political context, and military institutions and structures that shape civil-military relations. The book also explores the role of the military in promoting or obstructing political change, and the challenges that arise from military interventions in civilian affairs.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in the study of the military in modernizing political systems, in socialist and non-socialist countries. It provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the main theoretical, methodological, and empirical approaches to the study of the military, and sheds new light on the comparative politics and strategic affairs of the Cold War period.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367622510