Why We Fight: The Roots of War and the Paths to Peace
An acclaimed expert on violence and seasoned peacebuilder explains the five reasons why conflict (rarely) blooms into war, and how to interrupt that deadly process
Some upcoming book events
June 21, 2022
Interview by Raj Kumar of Devex
June 3, 2022
The Washington Post
May 31, 2022

Why are some people and societies poor, violent, and oppressive? What leads people into poverty, violence, and crime? What events and interventions lead them out?
Chris Blattman is an economist and political scientist who uses field work and statistics to study poverty, political engagement, the causes and consequences of violence, and policy in developing countries. He is a professor in the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago.
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Popular press coverage

Financial Times: A best summer book for 2022
June 20, 2022
Martin Wolf selects his best mid-year reads in economics

Book Club with Jeffrey Sachs
June 15, 2022
Jeff & Chris discuss where they agree and disagree on the causes of the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Book Bite from The Next Big Idea Club
June 3, 2022
Read or listen to the 5 big ideas that will change the war you think about war (15min)

Interview with Christianity Today on Why We Fight
June 1, 2022
By Kent Annan on the Better Samaritan blog

A study gave cash and therapy to men at risk of criminal behavior. 10 years later, the results are in.
May 31, 2022
Vox.com by Sigal Samuel
My popular writing

Eight weeks of therapy, plus some cash, can change the lives of violent men
June 3, 2022
Washington Post Op-Ed



If Ukraine wants a settlement, the West should support them
April 27, 2022
The Spectator (UK)