Class Year

2028

Document Type

Student Research Paper

Date of Creation

Fall 2024

Department 1

Political Science

Abstract

The 2024 presidential election in the United States amplified concerns regarding the age of international leaders and their ability to lead. Current research indicates that differences in individual characteristics such as ideology, biological sex, and aggression, can cause leaders to interact with foreign countries in varying ways. Especially important is the manner in which a leader’s age might impact their tendency to initiate interstate conflict, as the effects of these conflicts can have major impacts on the international system. In alignment with my hypothesis, most research indicates that older leaders will initiate fewer interstate conflicts than younger leaders. This is mainly because older leaders have lower levels of testosterone and naturally display less aggression, possess more effective methods of emotional regulation, and have accumulated more political knowledge and experience than younger leaders. These findings are significant for understanding the influence that the age of international leaders may exercise on the international system.

Comments

Written for POL 103: Introduction to International Relations

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