instead of conclusions like “Starting conditions x,y,z, lead to a singleton” you’ll get conclusions like “Starting conditions x,y,z, given assumptions a,b,c about the relation of information to power, lead to a singleton.” The second option is harder and less conclusive. But it is also less wrong.
Okay; good point. I would still want to gather the data, though, to compare to the model results.
One implication of the theory is that technological advancement can actually undermine an agents position in a multi-polar system. If Agent A develops an offensive weapon that guarantees victory if Agent A strikes first then other agents are basically forced to attack preemptively and likely gang up on Agent A.
Okay; good point. I would still want to gather the data, though, to compare to the model results.
Tell that to the Iranians.