PSC 2440 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Hard Power, Geopolitics, Hubris
26 Mar 2020
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Document Summary
Highly qualitative, attributes that are universal in nature, multicultural. Based on collective wisdom of policy makers and decision makers. Human nature is the root of politics and all politics is a struggle for power, the struggle is intrinsic to us as human beings. Authority is more centralized domestically than internationally, there are commonalities between the domestic and international sphere of politics. The utility of the balance of power is limited. The balance of power relies on alliances to prevent the emergence of a dominant power, can at best prevent some wars and limit the severity of others. The most impactful balance of power is when it is needed the least. Capabilities are only one source of power, and power cannot be equated to influence. Influence has soft (power of persuasion) and hard power (coercive) elements. Justice is relevant and it is the foundation of relationships and the sense of community on which influence and security ultimately depend.
