The Dynamic of Secession [Hardcover]

This book, first published in 1999, offers an explanation for the occurrence of secessionist conflict, based on a comparative study of numerous historical examples.Secessionist activity has been increasing in the developing world, in Western liberal democracies, and especially in the former Communist states of Eastern Europe. This timely book offers a general explanation for the occurrence of the phenomenon, arising from a comparative study of numerous historical examples of secession and separatist conflict. The book develops a comprehensive framework, specifying the elements necessary for a secession crisis, and discussing the moral issues underpinning it.Secessionist activity has been increasing in the developing world, in Western liberal democracies, and especially in the former Communist states of Eastern Europe. This timely book offers a general explanation for the occurrence of the phenomenon, arising from a comparative study of numerous historical examples of secession and separatist conflict. The book develops a comprehensive framework, specifying the elements necessary for a secession crisis, and discussing the moral issues underpinning it.Secessionist activity has been increasing in the developing world, in Western liberal democracies, and especially in the former Communist states of Eastern Europe. This timely book offers a general explanation for the occurrence of the phenomenon, arising from a comparative study of numerous historical examples of secession and separatist conflict. The book develops a comprehensive framework, specifying the elements necessary for a secession crisis, and discussing the moral issues underpinning it.Part I: 1. Introduction; 2. Theoretical foundation for analysis of secession; Part II. The Costs and Benefits: 3. The benefits of membership; 4. The costs of secession; 5. The costs of membership; 6. The benefits of secession; Part III. The Dynamic of Secession: 7. 'Last resorts': a rise in the costs of membership; 8. 'Opportunel0