I think instability is the natural state for a group of nations that are generally dictatorships, generally pursuing a 'realist' foreign policy. It's also been

I think instability is the natural state for a group of nations that are generally dictatorships, generally pursuing a 'realist' foreign policy. It's also been obvious since ancient history that the problem with dictatorships is that the next dictator can be an absolute moron, madman, or monster. Still, as a thought experiment, imagine what Germany could have done to avoid WW1. I think it would be hard - but I also think it would have been pretty much the opposite of what Bismark did. A good start would be to abolish or at least weaken the monarchy. Monarchy is like playing high-stakes poker where every round you take an unknown class-A drug. Another good start would be to pursue a internationalist foreign policy, try and build coalitions, trust, etc.