War, in the popular sense, a conflict between political groups involving hostilities of considerable duration and magnitude. Sociologists usually apply the term to such conflicts only if they are initiated and conducted in accordance with socially recognized forms.
How common are armed conflict and peace between and within countries? How is this changing over time? Explore research and data on war and peace.
War - Control, Causes, Consequences: The international environment within which states and the people within them operate is regarded by many theorists as the major factor determining the occurrence and nature of wars.