The Theory of Incubation

Abstract

This chapter develops the theoretical framework to address the central question that underlies the volume. It begins with a discussion of the problems proto-insurgents face during incubation followed by a complete account of the incubation processes themselves. That proto-insurgents should want to prepare themselves before they challenge the sovereign’s claim to power is a modest notion, but it is clear not all have done so. This chapter also includes a discussion about why prewar preparation—compared to waiting until after conflict has begun—should be preferable for the proto-insurgent. The chapter contains a lengthy discussion about how these processes facilitate protracted conflict.