Superpowers Flashcards
What is a superpower?
A nation with the ability to project its influence anywhere in the world and be a dominant global force.
What makes an economic superpower? Give an example of a country.
High GDP and levels of trade with the ownership of lots of TNCs. An example is North Korea, which is ranked 170/180 on the corruption index and has a GDP growth of 3.1% in 2023.
What makes a political superpower? Give an example of a country.
A permanent seat on the UN Security Council and the number of IGOs a country is part of. An example is the USA, which ranks 1 due to better governance leading to better connections and corporations.
Who are the members of the UN Security Council and what does it do?
The five permanent members are China, France, Russia, the UK, and the USA. They have the power of veto to prevent the adoption of any substantive resolution.
What is hard power?
A power through force and coercion using military and/or economic influence such as trade deals and sanctions to force a country to act in a particular way.
What is soft power?
The power through persuasion that arises from a country’s political and economic influence, moral authority, and cultural attractiveness.
Which power is historically more important?
Hard power.
Example of how the relative importance of different forms of power have changed over time.
Mackinder’s geo-strategic location theory (the Heartland theory 1904) suggests that controlling vast areas of land was important in the past.
Explain the Heartland theory.
Proposed by Halford Mackinder, it states that any political power based in the heart of Eurasia (predominantly in Russia) could gain enough strength to eventually dominate the world due to natural resources, a large workforce, and strategic location.
How much of the world’s natural resources did the Heartland theory area control?
50%.
What fraction of the total world’s population was in the Heartland area?
7/8.
What are major drawbacks of the Heartland theory?
- Doesn’t include technological advances.
- Reinforces the idea that physical resources are important.
- Soft power became more common as a way of gaining influence.
What was the superpower from 1800-1918?
The British Empire controlled 25% of land area during a unipolar period.
What was the superpower from 1945-1990?
USA and USSR during the Cold War, a bipolar period.
What was the superpower from 1990-2016?
USA following the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe and Russia, a unipolar period.
What is the superpower from 2016 onwards?
USA, EU, and China, possibly including India and Russia, indicating a multipolar period.
What did the British Empire do?
- Altered law, religion, and language.
- Established territories using hard power.
- Formed trade routes and farming alliances.
What is acculturation?
When a new dominant culture overtakes the indigenous one.
What was a British Company in India in the British Empire?
The East India Company began to control the government, economy, and education systems of India in 1757.
What else was the British Empire for wealth?
A source of soft power as the British set up public facilities and permanent homes in Australia and Kenya.
What did the world become more of in 1919?
Multipolar.
When did the British Empire lose power?
1970s.
What were the 4 reasons why the British Empire ended?
1- Expense after WW1.
2- Independence movements.
3- Change of global trade.
4- Alteration of military tech.
Why would direct colonial control be unlikely today?
Due to developing military tech, human rights, anti-colonialism movements, and expense.
What does the Heartland theory explain?
The trade connection which made the British Empire successful.
What is neocolonialism?
The use of economic, political, cultural, or other pressures to control or influence other countries, especially former dependencies.
What three things does neocolonialism include?
- A debt aid relationship.
- Poor terms of trade.
- Migration of valuable workforce.
What could be argued about the shift to more soft power?
There is still use of military force, such as in Afghanistan and military interventions.
What is example 2 of post-war indirect control?
The rise of China challenging the influence of the USA and former colonial rulers.
What has China been accused of?
Neocolonialism in Africa.
By 2022, what did China become?
Africa’s biggest trading partner with trade exceeding $282 billion.
How many economic and trade cooperation zones does China have in Africa?
25.
How many countries is China invested in in Africa and how much investment?
16 countries attracting $7.35 billion of investment.
What have China’s aid programs provided Africa?
Grants and loans for improvements in agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Why does China invest in Africa? List 4 reasons.
- Cheaper labor.
- Bigger workforce.
- No conditions on human rights.
- Rich in natural resources.
What are two cons with China’s investment in Africa?
- Lack of human rights.
- Creates a trading imbalance favoring China.
What is a trade imbalance?
When a country is importing more than they are exporting.
What has China’s focus been since the mid-1990s?
Securing raw materials for its industrial growth.
How big is China’s trade surplus with Africa?
US$64.1 billion as of 2023.
What is an example of China creating infrastructure in Africa?
China built a $3.2 billion railway in Kenya connecting Nairobi to Mombasa.
What has the lack of Western values in China’s investment given it?
Political leverage in UN voting patterns and infrastructure project allocations.
What is Africa in reference to China?
A crucial partner in China’s global economic strategy.
What are Western nations now considering due to China’s investment?
Engagement strategies with Africa to counterbalance China’s growing influence.
What is a large-scale project of China that is the main source of infrastructural investment?
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
What else has China established in Africa?
Military bases such as the one in Djibouti.
What does China’s investment bring to Africa? List 5 benefits.
- Employment.
- Growth of tech and infrastructure.
- Regeneration of areas.
- Growing education and healthcare.
- Economic growth.
How much did China invest in Africa in 2015?
$3 billion.
As the world has become more multipolar, what countries are of rising importance?
Emerging powers - BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India, and China).
What are G20s?
International forums with the world’s 20 largest economies.
What is likely that emerging powers will do in the future?
- Demand more in global organizations.
- Have more influence over global financial decision-making.
- Play a greater role in international peacekeeping.
How are the BRIC emerging countries environmentally concerning?
They account for 42% of global carbon dioxide emissions.
How are the BRIC emerging countries environmentally positive?
They have been involved in global environmental governance agreements.
What are more recent emerging countries?
MINT countries - Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, Turkey.
Why are MINT countries in their position?
They are likely to benefit from demographic dividends and advantageous geographical positions.
How could the future demographically change?
Aging population problems in the EU and Japan.
How could the future stability change?
Countries could form their own alliances, leading to another Cold War.
How could the future resources change?
Worldwide demand for food, water, and energy could lead to severe shortages and conflicts.
How could the future military change?
A new arms race could occur as China expands its naval and air power.
How could the future economy change?
If Asia becomes more dominant, the global economy would depend on the health of NICs in Asia.
What are the 4 theories that explain shifting patterns of power?
- Modernisation theory.
- Dependency theory.
- World systems theory.
- Mackinder’s Heartland theory.
What is the modernisation theory?
Developed in the 1960s by W.W. Rostow, it suggests that economic development occurs when preconditions are met.
How does the modernisation theory work?
There are 5 stages in linear growth of development: 1. Traditional society, 2. Transitional stage, 3. Take off stage, 4. Drive to maturity, 5. High mass consumption.
What is stage 1 of the modernisation theory?
Traditional society: economy based on farming.
What is stage 2 of the modernisation theory?
Transitional stage: surpluses are traded and infrastructure improves.
What is stage 3 of the modernisation theory?
Take off stage: industrial and regular growth, investment, and political change.
What is stage 4 of the modernisation theory?
Drive to maturity: growth supported by investment and tech advancements.
What is stage 5 of the modernisation theory?
High mass consumption: dominant service sector and high consumer society.
How did Rostow believe each stage of the modernisation theory would be achieved?
Through free trade, capitalism, and democracy.
What did Rostow’s ideas of the modernisation theory lead to?
Developing countries investing in key infrastructure and IGOs introducing Structural Adjustment Programmes.
What is a structural adjustment programme through the IMF?
Economic reforms that a country must adhere to in order to secure a loan.
What is a pro of the modernisation theory?
Easy to understand and well explained.
What are the cons of the modernisation theory?
- Based on European cycles.
- Outdated and too simple.
- Assumes all nations are the same.
- Doesn’t consider colonialism.
- Doesn’t consider natural hazards.
When was the dependency theory developed and by whom?
1960s by Andre Gunder Frank.
What is the dependency theory?
The persistent poverty of developing nations is due to their dependency on developed nations.
What is the dependency theory linked to?
Neocolonialism.
What is an example of dependency theory?
Haiti, which was colonized by Spain and is now over $5,500 in debt.
What are the limitations of the dependency theory?
- Developed countries have lost power to developing countries.
- Global systems are now controlled by TNCs and WTO.
When and by whom was the world systems theory developed?
Developed by Wallerstein in 1974.
What did the world systems theory suggest?
The world was split into core nations, semi-periphery nations, and periphery nations.
What are core nations in the world systems theory?
High income, industrialized, control global market, and need natural resources from semi-periphery.
What are semi-periphery nations in the world systems theory?
Middle income, industrializing, mostly capitalist, moving towards becoming core nations.
What are periphery nations in the world systems theory?
Low income, lower skilled workforce, export labor and natural resources.
What is a strength of the world systems theory?
Highlights inequalities of trading patterns.
What is a con of the world systems theory?
Too focused on the economy and not culture.
What do superpowers promote to influence the global economy?
Free trade and capitalism.
What is an example of superpowers’ disproportionate influence over the global economy?
The USA, EU, and Japan account for about 60% of the global GDP.
What does a western capitalist economy do?
- People own businesses and employ workers.
- Promote free trade.
- Promote wealth creation.
What does IGO stand for?
Intergovernmental organization.
What does NGO stand for?
Non-governmental organization.
What do the USA, EU, and Japan account for in the global GDP?
They account for about 60% of the global GDP, which are all western capitalist economies.
What are three characteristics of a western capitalist economy?
- People own businesses and employ workers to make profits for themselves.
- Promote free trade in goods and services across borders.
- Promote wealth creation and accumulation by companies and individuals.
What does IGO stand for?
Intergovernmental Organisation.
What does NGO stand for?
Non-Governmental Organisation.
What key decisions do IGOs make?
- World economy.
- Conflicts.
- Environment.
How do IGOs vary in scale?
Some, like the UN, involve all nations, while others are more exclusive, such as the G8 or regional like NATO.
What disproportionate power do key players like the USA and EU have in IGOs?
Membership and voting rights may give them power to focus on their interests, often working together to promote or block policies.
What do critics of IGOs argue?
They argue that IGOs help maintain the hegemony of western capitalism at the expense of weaker countries, referencing the Dependency Theory.
What is a positive aspect of IGOs?
They help keep powerful and opposing nations talking and negotiating rather than fighting.
What was the case study involving the IMF and Jamaica in the 1980s?
Jamaica faced an economic recession and turned to the IMF for loans.
What austerity conditions did the IMF impose on Jamaica?
The IMF imposed austerity conditions, including a public sector wage freeze, which accounted for a 20% pay cut.
What were two short-term effects of the public sector wage cut in Jamaica?
- The public sector wage bill cut reduced GDP by 2%.
- The number of registered nurses fell by 60%.
What were four long-term economic and social effects of the public sector wage cut in Jamaica?
- Maternal mortality doubled from 1990-2010.
- By 2010, there was a 24% fall in kids completing primary school.
- Electricity prices increased by 135%.
- Average price of a basket of goods rose by 5.5% by 2011.
What inequality statistic reflects the impact of the IMF in Jamaica?
Jamaica has the second worst income distribution inequality in the Americas, scoring 59.9 on the Gini coefficient.
What theory does Jamaica’s situation with the IMF reference?
Dependency Theory due to colonization by the British.
What do TNCs do to spread their influence globally?
They dominate the economic landscape, affect commodity pricing, control technology, and spread western culture.
What are the two types of TNCs?
- State-owned TNCs owned by governments.
- Publicly traded TNCs owned by various shareholders.
What are three arguments for TNCs being more dominant than IGOs?
- Large economies allow them to reduce costs and outcompete smaller competitors.
- Their ability to borrow money allows investment in new technology.
- The global move towards capitalism opens more opportunities for them.
What do TNCs invest in to develop new products?
They invest huge sums of money into research and development.
What protects the new developments made by TNCs?
Intellectual property rights through patents, copyright, and trademarks.
What must anyone who wants to use TNC innovations do?
Pay royalty fees.
What is the pattern of patents worldwide?
Patents were historically available mainly to western TNCs, but there is now increased patent activity from countries like China.
Why are western countries home to the most powerful TNCs?
- Existing superpowers benefit financially from past creations.
- Higher education levels lead to more tech development.
- Developed world TNCs are well-positioned to invest in R&D.
What are some beliefs of western culture?
- Consumerism in food and clothing.
- Media, art, literature, and language.
- Technology.
- Economic freedom.
What is an example of non-western culture spreading globally?
In the UK, curry is the number one takeaway food, not the American burger.
What do military, economic, and environmental alliances between superpowers respond to?
They respond to conflicts, humanitarian crises, and issues like climate change.
When was the UN formed and how has it changed?
The UN was formed in 1945, initially led by WWII allies. Now it has 193 member countries, but decision-making still favors powerful countries.
What role do powerful countries often play in international crises?
They often lead responses, such as the USA, UK, and France providing aid during the Ebola epidemic.
What assistance has the USA provided to countries hit by natural hazards?
Since the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the USA has made over $5 billion available in assistance.
What are three functions of the UN Security Council?
- Intervening in war and conflict.
- Responding to terrorism.
- Addressing long-term threats like climate change.
What factors help develop the economic importance of a superpower?
- TNCs.
- IGOs.
- Government.
- Large population.
- Location/vulnerability to natural hazards.
- Natural resources.
What is the UN Security Council?
A group of 15 countries, including superpowers and emerging powers, that aims to maintain international peace and security.
Who are the five permanent members of the UN Security Council?
USA, France, UK, Russia, China. They have veto power over decisions.
Why do countries form alliances?
To increase their military power.
What nickname has been given to the USA?
The world’s police, due to interventions often protecting their interests.
What is cause 1 of conflicts between superpowers?
As natural resources run out, claims over ownership become more important.
What is cause 2 of conflicts between superpowers?
Multiple countries showing interest in unclaimed territory.
What are three ways interest in unclaimed territory can cause tensions?
- Countries may wish to expand territory for resources and trade routes.
- Disputed territory after armed conflict.
- Defending cultural rights of ethnic groups.
How do counterfeit products create tensions between superpowers?
They undermine the global system of intellectual property rights, straining trade relations.
What is an example of tensions caused by resource searches among superpowers?
The Arctic, particularly in relation to Russia and Ukraine.
How did the relationship between Ukraine and Russia escalate?
In 2005-6, Gazprom threatened to cut gas supplies to Ukraine, leading to wider European involvement due to dependency on Russian gas.
What was Russia’s main goal in invading Ukraine in 2022?
To overthrow the pro-Western government and return Ukraine to Russia’s sphere of influence.
What is an economic exclusion zone?
Each country owns sea miles extending 200 miles outwards from its coast, which can cause tensions when these zones overlap.
What new relationships are forming between superpowers and emerging powers?
Superpowers maintain and emerging powers create new relationships with developing countries.
What is a limitation in the relationships between superpowers and developing countries?
Developing countries often have to accept trade terms that favor the superpower.
Why do emerging countries have less to lose in their relationships with developing countries?
They rely on low prices for raw materials and can provide cheaper manufactured goods.
What are three global patterns for emerging powers?
- By 2050, the economic center of gravity is expected to be between India and China.
- Increasing reversal of FDI flows from emerging to developed countries.
- China’s RBI strategy connects China, Europe, and Africa.
How do tensions in the Middle East represent a political challenge to global superpowers?
- Post-colonial borders established new states.
- Tensions between Palestine and Israel.
- Military actions in Afghanistan and Iraq.
- Sanctions on Iran.
How do tensions in the Middle East represent an economic challenge to global superpowers?
The rise of ISIS has forced western interests to defend oil reserves and increase anti-terrorism spending.
How do tensions in the Middle East represent a cultural challenge to global superpowers?
- Disputes over Jerusalem, a holy site for multiple religions.
- Differences between Sunni and Shi’a Muslims.
- A fast-growing population.
How do tensions in the Middle East represent an environmental challenge to global superpowers?
- Conflicts over water access.
- Vulnerability to climate change.
- Israel’s over-extraction of water.
- Competition between Iranian and Saudi oil exports.
What are some recent advantages of superpowers?
Maintaining military power and undertaking space exploration.
What are examples of economic cons of superpowers?
- The USA’s national debt was $19 trillion in 2016, but the dollar’s status makes it less vulnerable.
- The UK’s debt was 10% of annual GDP in 2016.
What are examples of demographic cons of superpowers?
- The EU is aging rapidly; by 2025, 20% of citizens will be over 65.
- This will increase the burden on workers to fund pensions and healthcare.
What is an example of political cons of superpowers?
Political deadlock often occurs between parties, such as between Democrats and Republicans.
What are examples of resource cons of superpowers?
- The EU’s energy security relies on imported oil and gas, making it vulnerable to conflicts.
- The USA is increasing fracking and using Canadian tar sands for electricity.
What are examples of social cons of superpowers?
- Youth unemployment in the EU was over 45% in Greece and Spain in 2015.
- Health spending in the USA is 17% of GDP, with 30% of Americans being obese.
What are arguments for China replacing the USA as the world’s superpower?
- China’s Belt and Road Initiative will impact 60% of the global population.
- Rapid economic growth, becoming the second-largest economy.
- Largest navy and military capabilities.
- Open door policy in 1977.
- Likely to become the largest economy by 2028.
What are arguments against China replacing the USA as the world’s superpower?
- China remains a communist state with limited democracy.
- Challenges in earning online investment.
- Human rights violations.
- Aging population due to the one-child policy.
- India as a significant emerging power.
- Alibaba fined for market abuse.
What is China’s income per person compared to the USA?
$8,000 compared to $55,000.
How much has China invested in high-speed rail?
20,000 km.
How many military bases does the USA have worldwide?
128.
How much does China spend on its military compared to the USA?
China spends $130 billion, while the USA spends $580 billion.
What has Brexit done to the UK?
Created huge debt and a sluggish economy, risking stagnation similar to Japan’s since the mid-1990s.
What would global stability be like in a unipolar world?
It should be stable as only one superpower would dominate.
How many worldwide military bases does the USA have?
128
This means it has a far more global reach than China.
How much does China spend on military compared to the USA?
China spends $130 billion and the USA spends $580 billion, so more.
What has Brexit done to the UK?
Created huge debt and a sluggish economy, potentially risking stagnation like the Japanese economy since the mid-1990s.
What would global stability be like with a unipolar world?
Should be stable as only one hyperpower is unchallenged by other countries. However, it is unlikely to maintain control everywhere, leading to high costs and maintenance.
What would global stability be like with a bipolar world?
Stability will depend on diplomatic communication between two opposing superpowers. Breakdown of control or communication could lead to disastrous conflict.
What would global stability be like with a multipolar world?
Complex relationships between numerous equally powerful states could lead to misjudging intentions or fears over alliances, increasing the risk of conflict.
What is a large scale tension between superpowers?
The Arctic and its resources.
How much oil is estimated to be in the Arctic?
90 billion barrels of oil.
What are the disputes in the Arctic?
Disputes over overlapping economic exclusion zones, economic vs. environmental priorities, and the share of resources.
Who is the dominant superpower in the Arctic at the moment?
Russia, with increased military involvement, located at the most northern military base on Franz Joseph Island (Trefoil base).
Why does Russia want to secure the Arctic for the future?
As the ice melts, it can access oil and gas and extra shipping and trading routes.
How are other countries concerned with Russia’s involvement in the Arctic?
As Russia expands its borders, there is a higher threat from weapons and environmental implications from increased fossil fuel combustion.
What key changes will the world’s global economy see by 2060?
USA’s GDP will shrink by 17%, China’s GDP will rise by 16%, Japan’s GDP will drop by 4%, and Europe’s GDP will drop by 8%.
What makes a country powerful in its military?
High expenditure, large amounts of hardware and personnel, unparalleled intelligence networks, and global military bases.
How much did the USA spend on their military in 2022?
877 billion dollars.
What makes a country powerful in its culture?
Long-standing tradition and rich cultural history enjoyed by the rest of the world.
What makes a country powerful in its demographics?
A significant percentage of the global population for a high workforce and the ability to attract skilled migrants.
What makes a country powerful in its access to resources?
The ability to export and control valuable commodities and occupy a strategic location.
What is the economic strength of China as an emerging nation?
Second largest world economy.
What is the military strength of China as an emerging nation?
World’s largest army with 2.3 million soldiers and 75 military submarines.
What is the environmental strength of China as an emerging nation?
The Great Green Wall project and 1300 petrol stations upgraded to sell clean fuel.
What is the demographic strength of China as an emerging nation?
Large population well-suited for TNC investment, projected at 1.4 billion people in 2024.
What is the economic weakness of China as an emerging nation?
Air pollution costs the Chinese economy 25 billion dollars a year.
What is the military weakness of China as an emerging nation?
Not as widespread as the USA, resulting in less sphere of influence.
What is the environmental weakness of China as an emerging nation?
World’s largest greenhouse gas emitter.
What is the political weakness of China as an emerging nation?
Corrupt government blocking 311,000 online domains, sacrificing economic growth.
What is the demographic weakness of China as an emerging nation?
Lack of human rights and poor treatment of workers.
What is the economic strength of India as an emerging nation?
By 2050, should account for 15% of global GDP with the fastest growing economy.
What is the environmental strength of India as an emerging nation?
Aiming for 50% renewable energy by 2030.
What is the military strength of India as an emerging nation?
Over 1.4 million in the armed forces and a nuclear weapons program.
What is the cultural strength of India as an emerging nation?
1.3 billion dollar Bollywood industry in 2023.
What is the demographic strength of India as an emerging nation?
1.3 billion population in 2025, providing a large workforce.
What is the economic weakness of India as an emerging nation?
Lack of proper infrastructure.
What is the environmental weakness of India as an emerging nation?
Third largest emitter of greenhouse gases, with 40% of energy from coal.
What is the political strength of India as an emerging nation?
Part of IGOs such as the UN and ASEAN Development Bank.
What is the political weakness of India as an emerging nation?
Flawed democracy, ranked 99/180 on the corruption index.
What is the military weakness of India as an emerging nation?
Weak air force.
What is the economic strength of Russia as an emerging nation?
9th largest economy.
What is the cultural strength of Russia as an emerging nation?
Hosted FIFA World Cup in 2018, and many countries speak Russian.
What is the military strength of Russia as an emerging nation?
Largest global supply of nuclear weapons and the world’s largest arms exporter in 2013.
What is the political strength of Russia as an emerging nation?
Ranked 3rd of 193 on the soft power index in 2024.
What is the political weakness of Russia as an emerging nation?
Controversial political actions and ranked 154th out of 180 on the corruption index in 2024.
What is the environmental weakness of Russia as an emerging nation?
90% of its energy is fossil fuels.
What is the cultural weakness of Russia as an emerging nation?
Sanctions placed on sports players due to the Ukraine war in 2022.
What is the economic strength of Brazil as an emerging nation?
8th largest GDP in 2024 with economic growth of 5% in 2010.
What is the military strength of Brazil as an emerging nation?
Largest military in the Western Hemisphere with 300,000 soldiers.
What is the environmental strength of Brazil as an emerging nation?
On target to become the 2nd largest uranium producer, with 47% of energy from renewables.
What is the cultural strength of Brazil as an emerging nation?
Neymar the football player and the 2016 Olympic Games.
What is the demographic strength of Brazil as an emerging nation?
108 million workforce.
What is the demographic weakness of Brazil as an emerging nation?
Large rich and poor divide.
What is the economic weakness of Brazil as an emerging nation?
High taxes for local farmers, making it expensive.
What is the environmental weakness of Brazil as an emerging nation?
20% of the Amazon rainforest has been deforested.
What is an example of cultural erosion in India due to TNCs?
Coca-Cola’s Plachimada bottling plant closure due to pollution led to job losses and health issues.
What is an example of cultural erosion in Brazil due to TNCs?
Amazonians adopting Western clothing and moving to urban areas, leading to cultural degradation.
What are the economic cons of Apple’s TNC spreading in China?
$3 an hour low wage with unpayed overtime, leading to high suicide rates.
What are the environmental cons of Apple’s TNC spreading in China?
iPhone 12 production caused spikes in air pollution in 2020.
What are some stats about the Apple TNC?
Until 2015, it was the largest company in the USA, a $6.85 billion industry, and sold over 1 billion iOS devices.
What are key characteristics of a superpower?
Intervene in conflict, take action in crisis response, and respond to terrorism.
What is an example of a superpower taking action in crisis?
The UK contributed $1.5 billion of aid to Syria during the humanitarian crisis.
What is an example of superpowers responding to longer-term issues such as climate change?
The IPCC and COP 28 meetings influence global climate agreements.
What are the three reasons superpowers and hyperpowers have allies in terms of geostrategy?
Political and economic allies form blocks to increase global influence, military assets maintain spheres of influence, and allies provide intelligence on distant regions.
What is an example of a military alliance and how many members does it have?
NATO with 32 members, founded by France, the USA, and the UK.
What is an example of NATO military action?
In 2016, NATO installed Patriot missile systems to defend against the Syrian conflict.
What is the second name of a military alliance?
ANZUS, not in the EU.
What are examples of economic alliances?
The European Union with 27 members and ASEAN trade bloc with 10 Southeast Asian countries.
What has geopolitics become the responsibility of?
IGOs such as the UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice.
What is an example of a UN climate conference keeping global geopolitical stability?
COP meetings such as COP 28 in 2023, which set legally binding requirements for developed countries.
What is an example of UN peacekeeping and security council keeping global geopolitical stability?
In 1990, the UN demanded Iraq withdraw from Kuwait after its invasion.
What was China’s biggest overseas investment?
Gwadar in 2018 with an investment of $62 billion.
How many of the biggest construction companies are Chinese?
7 out of 10.
What happened with China’s investment in Sri Lanka?
Invested $1.5 billion in Hambantota deepwater port, which became a naval base after Sri Lanka couldn’t pay it back.
What is another infrastructural Chinese investment?
North to South water transfer project.
What is risky about Chinese investments in the BRI?
Developing countries often cannot pay back the loans, leading to financial loss.
What has been bad for China’s economy?
COVID-19 pandemic caused a 1.2% GDP fall.
How many military bases does the US have worldwide?
800.
What are the pros of maintaining military power in naval power?
New laser-based technology vital for lowering costs and good protection overseas.
What are the cons of maintaining military power in naval power?
High expenses and extensive fitting and equipment.
What are the pros of maintaining military power with nuclear weapons?
High power with updated nuclear deterrents.
What are the cons of maintaining military power with nuclear weapons?
Costs vary between £100 billion to £250 billion over 40-50 years.
What are the pros of maintaining military power in air power?
Introduction of autonomous drones is cheaper and more agile.
What are the cons of maintaining military power in air power?
High expenses.
What are the pros of maintaining military power in intelligence?
Extensive government budget for surveillance keeps global peace.
What are the cons of maintaining military power in intelligence?
Extremely labor-intensive and costly.
What are the pros of maintaining military power in space programs?
Shows power and status, such as the USA landing on the moon.
What are the cons of maintaining military power in space programs?
Expensive, with a USA budget of $17.6 million.
What are examples of naval power?
Naval power is extremely labour intensive and costly.
The risk of theft of intelligence, such as the Edward Snowden incident in 2013, jeopardized MI6 agents with confidential information spread.
What are pros of maintaining military power in space programmes?
Military power in space programmes shows strength, such as the USA landing on the moon before Russia in 1969.
China launched the Tiangong-1 space station in 2011, showcasing wealth, status, and research for further innovations.
What are cons of maintaining military power in naval power?
Naval power is expensive, with the USA budget at $17.6 million.
What is degrading the environment in emerging powers?
The growth of the middle class is degrading the environment as much as developed countries do, but the Kuznets curve is important.
What can increased mining by superpowers cause?
Increased mining can cause landscape scarring.
An example is Drakelands Pit in Devon, which opened in 2015, extracting tungsten and causing landscape scarring, air pollution, and groundwater contamination.
What can increased fossil fuel combustion by superpowers cause?
Increased fossil fuel combustion can cause acid rain.
In 2003, 250 Chinese cities experienced acid rain, resulting in a loss of US$13.3 billion due to weathering of cement and limestone.
Who are the first and second largest greenhouse gas emitters?
China is the first, followed by the USA.
What can increased oil drilling by superpowers cause?
Increased oil drilling can cause oil spills.
An example is the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon drilling rig explosion, which spilled 450 million litres of oil, polluting the coast and Mississippi Delta.
What can forest removal by superpowers and emerging powers cause?
Forest removal can cause deforestation, loss of habitat, decreased water supply, and greenhouse gas emissions through cattle and combustion.
What is an example of forest removal in Brazil?
Beef exports have increased tenfold, making cattle ranching the second largest worldwide.
It takes 15,000 litres of water to produce a kg of beef, making it intensive on water resources.
What environmental actions has China taken?
China’s use of resources is motivated by national pride, especially after the 1950s famine.
Post-2008 economic slowdown, environmental degradation costs were 9% of GDP in 2012. They are now more environmentally aware, joining the Paris Agreement and promoting solar panels and clean energy.
What environmental actions has the EU taken?
The EU subsidized extensive farming through the Common Agricultural Policy, causing environmental issues.
However, many countries have signed the Paris Agreement.
What environmental actions has Russia taken?
Russia has reduced greenhouse gas emissions using nanotechnologies and energy-efficient laws.
They have a surplus of carbon credits for trading and signed the Paris Agreement, but increasing GHG sanctions could reduce their power over resources.
What environmental actions has the USA taken?
Environmental actions in the USA are politically debated, with concerns that regulations limit economic growth.
Trump pulled out of the Paris Agreement in 2017, and the USA is the second largest GHG emitting country.
What is predicted for resource abstraction in the future?
Superpowers will increasingly rely on rare earth minerals as high-tech goods depend on them.
How much is a business generating rare earth minerals worth annually?
$4 billion a year.
What is an example of a rare earth mineral?
Europium is used for control rods in nuclear reactors.
What is an environmental influence of rare earth minerals?
Processing one tonne of rare earth minerals can produce 2,000 tonnes of toxic waste, causing massive issues when mixed with surface and groundwater.
How much of rare earth minerals does China produce?
China produces 85% of rare earth minerals, leading to 10 million tonnes of wastewater pumped away each year.
How is food demand changing?
Rice consumption has increased by 50% in Sub-Saharan Africa, the USA, and the EU due to healthier diets and immigration.
This may lead to environmental problems such as soil degradation and chemical runoff.
How is water supply changing?
Industrializing countries may overuse water for drinking and agriculture.
In India, farmers are supplied with solar-powered pumps as groundwater is being used three times faster than it can be replenished.
When is it predicted that oil will run out?
By 2061.
How many cars is China estimated to have on the road in 2040?
1 billion.
What are cons of soft power?
Soft power takes more time, cultural influence does not equal political power, is vulnerable to competition, and offers less control over outcomes.
What are pros of soft power?
Soft power builds cultural exchange, increases global influence, and builds positive relationships to avoid conflict.
What are cons of hard power?
Hard power has high costs, such as the $40 billion military cost of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and potential backlash.
What are pros of hard power?
Hard power is quicker, offers clear control, and allows control over resources, as seen with the British Empire.
what 4 IGOS help superpowers influence the global economy
- world back
-IMF - WTO
- world economic forum (WEF)
function of and what is the world bank
financial aid and tech support for developing countries and promotes sustainable development with 18 member countries
examples of the world bank impact and power through superpowers x2
- voting power is based on financial contributions
- funding construction of the SOCO project Dam in ghana promoting electriciy and economic development so superpowers gain good connections and reputation
what is and what is teh function of the IMF
grants loans to member countries to help remove debt with 185 members and unequal voting power as superpowers get more.
examples of the IMF impact and power through superpowers x2
- worlds leading 21 countries control 70% of the vote
-larger investment increases voting power
what is the WTO and how do they function
operates a global system of trade rules and helps countries increase their trade with 166 members
examples of the WTO impact and power through superpowers
-member countries increase trade by 171% in which superpowers often benefit on as they have trade surplus a lot of the time such as china
what is the WEF and how do they function
- brings together 2,500 world leaders (activists and bankers and govs and corporate cheifs etc) helping keep peace and development
examples of the WEF impact and power through superpowers
out of the 2,500 leaders US had 718 there so the superpower has more impact
what are two examples of the WEF actions
- BRICS New Development Bank started with a conversation at a WEF conference
- in the 1980s Turkey didn’t go to war with Greece because of the WEF
what are 4 examples of conflicts between superpowers
- Russia’s western border
- The artic
- South and East China Sea
- Intellectual property rights
what is the conflict in the South and East China sea
- Areas in the South China Sea are disputed between many countries such as the philipenes and china due to economic exclusion zones overlapping
- China’s response to the dispute was creating military bases in the Spratly Islands, including a 3km long aircraft runway
how did the conflict in the South and East China sea arise
- china wants to extend its economic exclusion zone due to interests such as trade and shipping through the Straits of Malacca and the vast mining in this region
severity of the conflict in the South and East China Sea and risks in the future x3
- generally contesting peacefully e.g. in August 2024 there were at least 4 incidents where a Filipino and Chinese ship collided and then both sides traded blame.
- however the Chinese coastguard using water cannons on Filipino fishing boats.
- Currently the conflict is not severe however it has the potential to worsen, with possible interference from the US due to the territory in which the conflict is happening.
what is the issue with conflict over interllectual property rights
when individuals or organisations dispute ownership usage over creations leading to legal battles effecting economic growth, innovation and the protection of creative works. China didnt sign the Interlectual property righst agreement in 2011 when 32 countries did
what has arisen and severity from conflicts interlectual rpoperty rights x2
- trade and sale of counterfeit products such as in Kenya over 30% of medicines are counterfeit (this could include malaria medicine being hugely impactful health and socially)
-$72 million from the sale of counterfeit world cup products
what is the conflict with Russia’s western border
- due to russias invasions in ukraine and crimea its had sanctions in place by the UK and US and import volumes have decreased
- when Russia invaded georgian regions such as South Ossetia and Nato had to deploy air forces
-when the USSR collapsed in 1991 at least 8 eastern european states joined the EU
what are the conflicts in the artic and risk
- 25% of all gas and oil is in the artic ocean
-see stats before but russid has a military base up here and there is dirpute over overlapping of economic exclusion zones due to shipping and resources - environmental groups concerned about long term and risks of oil spills etc and also how it will run out and climate change
what are the two most stable types of polarity the world could be in the future
unipolar and multipolar most likely
despite the USAs large econonomy of … it is unlikely to stay as a unipower as could be overtaken by china’s … annual growth rate on GDP
- $18 trillion
-up to 10% annual gdp growth
what are the potential conflicts of china overtaking the us and them making the world unipolar
they heavily rely on iron and oil exports for their growth so if these crash they will economicallyy crash and so will other countries who rely on their manufacturing
what might a multipolar world create x3
- as tech increases and ec growth emerging countries become self reliant on their resources
- aging pop in EU means their workforce and helathcare will decrease needing investment
-meaning more conflicts in Asia most likely
what is the most instable polarity of the future wolrd
bipolar
what might a bipolar world mean
- china is 2nd largest economy and USA is the first
-chinas government issues such as corruption could influence other governments - USA tech advancements such as the tesla in the USA
- for example chinas BRI forming alliances THEY FOCUS ON TEH WORLD MORE
-however USA focusses on their country more and competing with china such as trade wars
what has trump done to china recently
has caused a trade war with many countries such as china where they face up to 245% tarriffs on imports
why has trump said started a trade war- this seems false as it only for USA’s economic development
Trump said the $100bn gained from the tariffs will be used to buy US agricultural products, which will then be sent to “poor and starving countries” for “humanitarian assistance”.
what is a term to use in the exam describing the range of a superpowers power
sphere of influence
what 3 examples of ways superpowers can maintain their power
- removal of subsidies
-SAPs
-The power of veto
what is a subsidy
A subsidy is a benefit given to an individual, business, or institution, usually by the government. It can be direct (such as cash payments) or indirect (such as tax breaks). The subsidy is typically given to remove some type of burden, and it is often considered to be in the overall interest of the public, given to promote a social good or an economic policy.
how does removal of subsidies by IGOs maintain superpowers power
- Subsidies on imported petroleum products are considered to be an important instrument for keeping fuel prices, and hence the cost of living, low.
- The costs of these subsidies, however, have risen dramatically in recent years along with increased volatility in world petroleum and petroleum product prices and increased illegal exportation of subsidized petroleum products into neighboring countries.
- The World Bank has completed the disbursement of a $1.5 billion loan following Nigeria’s implementation of essential reforms, including petrol subsidy removal so the gov doesnt have to pay it any longer
- results show that although a reduction in the subsidy generally results in an increase in Nigeria’s gross domestic product, it can have a detrimental impact on household income, and in particular on poor households.
what are the costs of being a superpower
- cost (find stat)
- uncertain future eg between usa and china struggle competitive (unipolar/ bipolar/ unipolar world)
- military maintainance and costs (find stat)
- conflicts such as the South China Sea
- growing population and middle class demanding resources (find stat)
what type of graph could come up in teh exam which you need to learn
a log scale graph
what maths skills to learn in exam
- all the stats tests and conclusions
- interquartile range
what is a covered previously example of a Structural Adjustment plan as a way for a superpower through IGOs to maintain its power
- Jamaica with the assistance from the IMF in the 1980s
list stats
how does the power of VETO by IGOs maintain superpowers power
in the UN- these 5 countries:
-China
-UK
-USA
-Russia
-France
have the power of veto so can turn down a decision that the rest of the member countries are in favour for
-193 countries in the UN
what where the political parties opposed in the cold war
communism vs capitalism
how did usa exert economic power in the cold war with their sphere of influence and promote capatilism and stop teh spread of communism x2
- the Marshal Plan where they provided over $12 billion initiated in 1948 to help western Europe economies rebuild after WW2 which tried to prevent the spread of communism by promoting economic development and creating markets for economic goods.
- they aslo provided aid to spread communism in the West such as Japan, Singapore and the Philepenes
how did USSR exert economic power (and pollitical) in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote communism x2
- through the Council for Mutual Economic Asisstance (COMECON) established in 1949
- this helped promote socialist economic models whwich reduced reliance in eastern Bloc countries on the Western economy coordinating industrial and agricultural policies
how did USSR exert pollitical power in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote communism x2
- established one party communist states across eastern europe such as Poland and Hungary where local communist parties were heavily influenced by moscow
- these regimes were tightly controlled by the Soviet Union by political advisers, economic aid and military invervention in some cases
how did USA exert pollitical power (and pollitical) in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote capitalism
while promoting democracy the USA supported authoritarian regimes that were anti communist such as backing Chiles dictatorship under Pinochet. this enabled them to esnure pollitical allignment with american interest and expand their sphere of influence
how did USSR exert cultural power (and pollitical) in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote communism x2
- Soviet propoganda promoting social realism
- it emphaised the glory of the working class and socialist system
- protrayed tHE usa as imperilasit and oppresive using media, education etc to foster a sense of unity and commitment among its citizens and allies
how did USA exert cultural power (and pollitical) in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote capitalism
- Propoganda using media, cinema literacy to promote the ideals of democracy and capitalism and exposing communist regimes
how did USSR exert military (indirect) power (and pollitical) in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote communism x3
- formed the WARSHAW pact in 1955 ensuring military allignment and coordination of their controlled Eastern Bloc countries
- the USSR backed North Korea in the korean war (1950-53) and North Vietnam in the vietnam war (1955-75)
- engaged in military intervention at times in Eastern Bloc states they wanted control over such as the Prague Spring in 16968
how did USA exert military (indirect) power (and pollitical) in the cold war with their sphere of influence to promote capitalism x2
- the USA backed south Korea in the korean war (1950-53) and south Vietnam in the vietnam war (1955-75)
- Formed the military alliance of NATO established in 1949: an allience of western nations led by the USA aimed at countering the Soviet influence in Europe
what was the cold war an example of
soft power and indirect control mechanisms
what is neo-colonialism
use of economic, political and cultural power to influence other countries such as the british empire
what is neo-liberalism
an approach that transfers control of economic factors to the private sector away from the govs control with the idea of an open market and free trade- EG the USAs trade wars have gone againts its Neo-liberalism
what is a hegemony
leadership of dominance by one particular organisation or state
what is a social pro of Chinas investment in Africa
have trained 40,000 African military personal
what is a social/economic/environmental pro about chinas investment in Africa
between 2000 and 2013 china has funded 17 hydroelectric Dams in 14 countries triggering economic growth, the multiplier effect and sustainability
