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Key Highlights

Political Science · Conflict Studies

A new historical study has revealed a direct link between epidemics and the onset of civil conflicts. Using detailed data from the Ming and Qing dynasties in China (1368–1911), researchers found that epidemics significantly increased the likelihood of violent unrest. The study identifies resource scarcity and weakened government legitimacy as the two primary causal mechanisms connecting disease outbreaks to conflict.

Novelty: 75%

Rigor: 82%

Significance: 88%

Validity: 80%

Clarity: 91%

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