The economic and military rise of China presents Western democracies with a challenge unlike any they have faced since the inception of the modern nation-state system. As China's influence grows, traditional power dynamics are shifting, forcing countries to reassess their positions on the global stage. The United States feels roiled by polarization, and the philanthropic world is seized with debates about what to do. In this changing landscape, the potential for conflict is ever-present, but globalization may hold the key to reducing the economic incentives for war.
On the morning of June 3, 2023, the American destroyer Chung-Hoon and Canadian frigate Montréal entered the Taiwan Strait to conduct freedom of navigation exercises. This show of force was a response to China's increasing assertiveness in the region, highlighting the tensions that can arise when competing interests collide. It is in moments like these that the importance of political authority and international cooperation becomes paramount.
In this article, Aaron Friedberg considers the ways in which the intensifying rivalry between the United States and China may influence the structure of political authority among states. As these two superpowers vie for dominance, other countries are caught in the crossfire, forced to navigate a complex web of alliances and dependencies. Globalization, with its emphasis on interconnectedness, can either exacerbate these tensions or provide a pathway to peace.
COVID-19 has governments at all levels operating in a context of radical uncertainty. The regional and local impact of the COVID-19 crisis is highly variable, with some countries experiencing profound economic and social upheaval. In this environment, the need for strong political authority to guide decision-making and coordinate response efforts is more critical than ever.
A beginner's guide to realism and liberalism, incorporating insights from some of the critical theoretical paradigms within International Relations, can shed light on the complexities of power dynamics in a globalized world. These competing ideologies offer different perspectives on the role of states and international institutions in shaping the future of politics and security.
In its current form, globalization has exacerbated inequalities. Globalization 2.0 must address the political ramifications and power imbalances that have emerged as a result of increased interconnectedness. By promoting a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, globalization can help to foster stability and cooperation among nations.
Whether they expressed optimistic or pessimistic views about the “new normal” in 2025, these respondents also weighed in with their worries about the potential for conflict in an increasingly interconnected world. The shifting sands of political authority require constant vigilance and adaptation to ensure that peace and prosperity prevail.
Mineral and fuel abundance does not determine either the political or economic trajectory of less developed countries. While access to resources can play a role in shaping political authority, it is ultimately the decisions made by leaders and the will of the people that determine a nation's path. Globalization offers both opportunities and challenges in this regard, requiring careful navigation to avoid the pitfalls of conflict and instability.
