  In this article I discuss the outcome of an exploratory research project
based on complexity science concepts and theories; this research is focused on
the Great Power war dynamics in the time period 1495 - 1945. According to this
research, the international system has self-organized critical (SOC)
characteristics. A critical point is the attractor of the international system.
The war dynamics of Great Powers can be illustrated by a power law. As a result
of a driving force, the international system is constantly being pushed toward
this critical point. The security dilemma is a booster of this driving force.
Tension and frustration build up in the international system as a result of
various system thresholds, and are periodically discharged through wars. The
SOC characteristics of the international system result in a punctuated
equilibrium dynamic. The punctuations produce new international systems, each
with its specific characteristics. A quantifiable development of the
international system toward a condition of increased stability and reduced
resilience can be observed. In addition to SOC characteristics, the
international system exhibits characteristics of a chaotic system. Chaos, order
and development are closely linked. The SOC dynamics generate a process of
social expansion. It is possible to explain the social integration of Europe
from this perspective.
