Stokes vectors and polarization lasers

A new formalism for describing the dynamics of polarization lasers is introduced in which a Stokes vector is associated with each pair of polarization modes. Specifically it is shown that the Stokes vectors associated with the polarization modes of a passive cavity obey simple Bloch equations. It is also shown that the stationary and equilibrium solutions and their stability conditions can be determined in terms of the Stokes vector in a fairly simple, physically meaningful and even pictorial way. A simple model for the pair of interacting modes is worked out in some detail.