Define ‘superpower’
A nation with the means to project its power and influence anywhere in the world to be a dominant global force
Define ‘hyperpower’ with an example
An unchallenged superpower dominant in all aspects of power e.g. Britain 1850-1910
What are the seven characteristics of a superpower?
Size Demographic Resources Economic strength Military strength Culture Politics
Describe size as a characteristic of superpower?
A greater land area generally provides greater sources of natural resources and influence over neighbours
Give two examples of size as a characteristic of superpower
Russia - large land area and resources and 14 neighbours
Britain - relatively small land area but strong naval power to extend influence
Describe demographics as a characteristic of superpower using four examples
Large population size is seen as important
• Economic growth from workers e.g. UK
• Cheap workers promote economic growth e.g. China
• Increased population encourages economic growth through markets e.g. EU
• Increased political influence with lower population e.g. Qatar attracts skilled migrants
Describe how resources are important to superpower status
More resources means more power because it gives a nation leverage over countries that need or want resources however exports add little value to a country and TNCs control large volumes of resources
Describe military power as a characteristic of a superpower with three examples
Threat of force exerts pressure
• Achieves geopolitical goals e.g. US toppling Saddam Husein
• Type of weapons represent extent of threat e.g. Russia has 7k nuclear weapons and the USA have 6.8k
• Ability to project power e.g. USA has almost 800 military bases in more than 70 countries
What treaty was created to control nuclear warfare?
No proliferation treaty of 1968 to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and technology which was successful in terms of the Cold War arms race to set a revenge to for cooperation between nuclear and non nuclear states signed by 62 countries including Soviet Union but not Israel
Describe economic power
The control of investment and use of powerful currencies and influence to determine economic policies
Describe political power
Only five countries have a permanent seat on the UN Security Council
Alliance interaction
Superpowers have a disproportionate weight in international bodies
Describe cultural power
The appeal of a nation’s way of life , values and ideology e.g. clothing, religion and art
Capitalism or communism
