Studying small states’ strategic adjustments

This chapter explores the general research design of small states study. The analytical framework of this study conflates elements of neorealism with later neoclassical realist research on alliance policies, different states' unit level characteristics and research within Strategic Studies related to the concept of strategy. Despite the rather lengthy history of small state studies, there are still divergent views on the proper definition for the concept of small states. The body of research on small states' foreign and security policies has thematically always been adjusted to both the general theoretical developments within mainstream research in International Relations theory as well as to structural changes and events in the real world of international politics. Small states are in these contexts often described as quick adapters. The elements of strategy require one further operationalisation to make it possible to measure and compare strategic adjustments and change in military strategies.