The Thucydides Trap: A Cautionary Tale for International Relations The Thucydides Trap is a concept that has been invoked to explain the rising tensions between major powers in international relations.
At its core, it suggests that when a rising power challenges an established great power, conflict is almost inevitable.
This idea has been debated by scholars and policymakers alike, but what exactly is the Thucydides Trap, and how does it play out in modern international relations?