This chapter provides an analytical survey of models explaining the level of military expenditure, emphasizing empirical econometric models based on optimizing behavior. After setting out the standard neo-classical model in which nation states are represented as rational agents maximizing a...

A large literature has used tests for Granger (1969) non-causality, GNC, to examine the interaction of military spending with the economy. Such tests answer a specific although quite limited question: can one reject the null hypothesis that one variable does not help predict another? If one can...

There is now a large empirical literature on estimating arms races. This paper surveys some of the econometric issues involved in estimating action-reaction models of such races. Starting from the traditional Richardson model, it examines issues of identification, specification, and the role of...

A large literature has used tests for Granger (1969) non-causality, GNC, to examine the interaction of military spending with the economy. Such tests answer a specific although quite limited question: can one reject the null hypothesis that one variable does not help predict another? If one can...

This paper considers the interpretation of the empirical results of the developing literature on the demand for military spending that specifies a general model with arms race and spill-over effects and estimates it on cross-section and panel data. It questions whether it is meaningful to talk...

This paper reviews some of the theoretical and econometric issues involved in estimating growth models that include military spending. While the mainstream growth literature has not found military expenditure to be a significant determinant of growth, much of the defence economics literature has...