Military Expenditures and Economic Growth
Editorial Reviews
Book Description
This study explores the historical relationship between economic growth and military expenditures in five great power countries: Germany, France, Russia, Japan, and the United States. Using statistical and case-study methodologies, the authors examine
From the Publisher
This report presents an exploration of the historical relationshipbetween national economic growth and military expenditures in five"great power" countries: Germany, France, Russia, Japan, and theUnited States. Using statistical as well as case study methodologies,it examines how each country's military expenditures responded toincreases in output levels and rates of growth over the period 1870-1939 and proposes plausible explanations for the relationship ineach country. If the historical experience holds true, economicgrowth in some of the present-day candidates for great-power statuswill spur them to increase their rate of military expenditure growthand, as a result, their military capabilities. As we show, however,each country is unique, and strong economic growth by no meansimplies automatic expansion of military spending or capabilities. Infact, the historical record suggests that perceived threats fromabroad may be the most significant factor contributing to increasesin military expenditure in potential great powers. This distinction isimportant because policies designed to deter foreign military expan-sionsmotivated by ambition may have perverse effects if foreignmilitary expansions are in fact motivated by fear.This report should be of particular interest to policymakers con-cernedabout the prospect of increased military expenditures bylarge and rapidly growing economies. The research was sponsoredby the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence and was conducted inRAND Arroyo Center's Strategy, Doctrine, and Resources Program.The Arroyo Center is a federally funded research and developmentcenter sponsored by the United States Army.For more information on RAND Arroyo Center, contact the Directorof Operations (tel 310-393-0411, extension 6500; FAX 310-451-6952;e-mail donnab@rand.
Military Expenditures and Economic Growth
Military Expenditures and Economic Growth,Jasen Castillo,RAND Corporation,0833028960,Appropriations and expenditure,Appropriations and expenditures,Armed Forces,Business / Economics / Finance,Economic development,General,Great powers,Gross domestic product,Military,Military Science,Non-Classifiable
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