Research progress in alliance stability: a content and comparative analysis of the English- and Chinese-language literature

Abstract

In an era of globalisation, to publish a research article in a language other than English can significantly diminish its impact. While, in many fields of study, there is no need to look beyond the English-language literature, in emerging fields or in fields where a specific country may have more interest, investigation of local language literature may significantly increase our understanding. We find this to be the case with the alliance stability literature. Our research offers a review, classification, and organising scheme for the different affecting factors and operation mechanisms found in the alliance stability literature. We offer a more detailed understanding of the research progress by highlighting longitudinal differences. Finally, we note promising avenues for future research on alliance stability; specifically, focusing on affecting factors, operation mechanisms, evolution, and performance of alliances.