War and Peace in an Age of Transparency

Kristin Lord

Innovations in information technology have changed the conduct of diplomacy. Some opinion leaders theorize that these innovations also will have dramatic effects on war and peace and, more specifically, that the information age will usher in a more peaceful world. The scope of their beliefs ranges from intense optimism to measured hopefulness that greater international transparency will improve political relations among governments.

According to the optimists, information technologies provide more information about the capabilities and intentions of governments, a condition commonly referred to as "transparency."
Greater transparency has the potential to clear up misunderstandings between governments that have often led to conflict in the past…

Kristin Lord is Assistant Dean and Assistant Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at the Elliot School of International Affairs at The George Washington University.