Religion and Diplomacy: The ‘Clash of Civilizations’ as Historical Libel

The ‘Clash of Civilizations’ hypothesis suggested that global politics would revert to inter-civilizational (inter-religious) conflict with the end Cold War. Conceptual and empirical refutations followed, but idea pre-Cold War inter-polity interaction was generally characterized by such not addressed. We consider this a possible historical libel. First, we briefly review position major faith traditions toward making keeping agreements those other traditions. Most forms are sanctioned, there is inconsistent minimal support for duplicity. Second, using MATRS database multilateral treaties, identify 79 sovereign entities active between 1750 1900 (when treaties were numerous official state religions prominent), link states their religions, analyze pattern 385 treaties’ signings. conclude no tendency among one religion avoid entering into religions. myth.