Thucydides Trap Trend 2026

The Thucydides Trap describes the heightened risk of conflict when a rising power threatens to displace an established one. Coined by political scientist Graham Allison, it warns of historical tensions often leading to war. Scholars and strategists use it to analyze geopolitical rivalries, particularly U.S.-China relations. Policymakers benefit by identifying flashpoints for potential de-escalation strategies.