Superpowers Revision

Question 1

What is the definition of a superpower nation?

Answer 1

A nation with the ability to project its influence anywhere in the world and be a dominant global force

Question 2

What are the 5 pillars leading to superpower status?

Answer 2

1. Economy
2. Military
3. Political
4. Cultural
5. Resources

Question 3

What is a hyper power?

Answer 3

An ‘unchallenged’ superpower, dominant in all four aspects of power

Question 4

Who are the top 5 countries by GDP population and area?

Answer 4

1. USA
2. China
3. Russia
4. India
5. Brazil

Question 5

What is hard power?

Answer 5

It’s the exercise of influence through coercion , relying on tactics like military force, payments, and economic sanctions

Question 6

What is soft power?

Answer 6

It uses the attraction and persuasion to change minds and influence behaviour, its sources include culture, government, political values, and positive global engagement

Question 7

What are the theories of power?

Answer 7

Modernisation theory/framework:

• By W. W. Rostow
• It suggests that economic development only begins when certain pre-conditions are met: modern infrastructure, education, banking and effective government

Dependency theory:

• By A.G. Frank
• In terms of
  economic development, the
  progress is influenced by economic,
  political and cultural forces, these
  are controlled by developed
  nations.

World Systems Theory:

• By Immanuel Wallerstein
• Does not see the world in Frank’s developed versus developing world terms, but rather as a global system of core, semi-periphery and periphery nations. The semi-periphery countries are the emerging economies, some of which are economic superpowers.

Question 8

Reasons for reduction/lack of growth in EU, Japan and USA leaving space for other countries to rise?

Answer 8

Stagnating wages
Rising interest rates
Increased/higher borrowing rates

Question 9

Belt and Road initiative aims?

Answer 9

To improve/increase access to trading routes overland and at sea therefore increasing sphere of influence. Hefty cost implications - trillions of dollars.

Question 10

Shifting centre of gravity

Answer 10

Asia is fast becoming a more dominant global religion…
Population vs GDP shows population growth in Asia and overall decline in Europe and North America. GDP also shifts… rapid growth and change in dominance.