Mechanisms of Power

Question 1

How can I country gain or maintain power?

Answer 1

Hard (overt) power

Soft (covert) power

Question 2

What is hard power?

Answer 2

Influence through force or coercion likely to involve military power and/ or economic sanctions

Question 3

Give two examples of hard power

Answer 3

• Britain’s expansionist policy during the Imperial era

* Economic sanctions against Iran to prevent its military nuclear capability

Question 4

What is soft power?

Answer 4

Exerting influence through persuasion based on cultural power
Devised by political scientist Joseph Nye in 1990 described as ‘cultural hegemony’ by Marxist Antonio Gramsci and maintained by Mussolini during his time in power

Question 5

Define hegemony

Answer 5

To establish leadership through political and/ or cultural practises

Question 6

Give an example of covert power

Answer 6

Dominance of the USA through TNCs e.g. McDonalds serves 68 million customers a day across the world in 120 countries

Question 7

What are the three main feature of covert power?

Answer 7

Historical or political values

Diplomacy or foreign policies

Culture