Superpowers Case Studies

Question 1

Dominanat Unipolar USA:

Answer 1

Why its considered Unipolar:
- largest economy, $20 trillion
- Dominates global institutions such as the IMF + WB
- +750 bases in 80 countries, worlds largest and most technologically advanced military
- Cultural influence through media + tech
Role in global governance:
- Leader in international organisations such as NATO and UN
- Promotes neoliberal economic policies and globalisation
- Acts as a global policeman, intervening in conflicts worldwide.

Question 2

Challenges the USA faces as a superpower:

Answer 2

• Economic competition from China and other emerging powers.
• Declining soft power due to controversial foreign policies.
• Rising domestic inequality and political polarisation.
• Large amount of debt
• Environmental degradation, its fluctuating policies effects the environment

Question 3

Emergence of China:

Answer 3

• rapid economic growth has made it the world’s largest economy
• significant investments in technology
• Expansion of military capabilities
• Global influence through initiatives like the belt and road initiative
• manufacturing hub of the world
• increasing soft power through cultural exports

Question 4

Problems and Challenging the US:

Answer 4

Problems:
- Ageing population and slowing economic growth.
- Environmental degradation due to rapid industrialisation.
- Tensions with neighbouring countries and the USA.
Challenging the US:
- Competes for influence in Africa + Asia, through infrastructure development
- Challenges Western-led global institutions by creating alternatives like the (AIIB).
- Advances in 5G technology and AI rival US tech leadership.

Question 5

Emerging BRIC nations: Strengths

Answer 5

• Formed BRICS to promote mutual interests
• Established the new development bank to finance infrastructure and development projects
• Advocate for reform of global institutions
  Strengths:
  Brazil: Agricultural superpower, vast natural resources, and biodiversity.
  Russia: Energy exporter with vast reserves of oil and gas; military power.
  India: Young, growing population and expanding IT and services sector
  China: Manufacturing powerhouse and leader in infrastructure investment.

Question 6

Challenges of BRICS:

Answer 6

Brazil: Political instability, corruption, and reliance on commodity exports.
Russia: Overdependence on energy exports and economic sanctions.
India: High levels of poverty, infrastructure deficits, and inequality.
China: Environmental issues, slowing growth, and geopolitical tensions.