Superpowers Revision Flashcards
(113 cards)
1
Q
What is the definition of a superpower nation?
A
A nation with the ability to project its influence anywhere in the world and be a dominant global force
2
Q
What are the 5 pillars leading to superpower status?
A
- Economy
- Military
- Political
- Cultural
- Resources
3
Q
What is a hyper power?
A
An ‘unchallenged’ superpower, dominant in all four aspects of power
4
Q
Who are the top 5 countries by GDP population and area?
A
- USA
- China
- Russia
- India
- Brazil
5
Q
What is hard power?
A
It’s the exercise of influence through coercion , relying on tactics like military force, payments, and economic sanctions
6
Q
What is soft power?
A
It uses the attraction and persuasion to change minds and influence behaviour, its sources include culture, government, political values, and positive global engagement
7
Q
What are the theories of power?
A
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
E.G Bottoms Level to Top = Bhutan, Mexico, Nigeria, India, China
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.
E.G China hold power over African countries such as Nigeria
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.
E.G Core = China, Semi-periphery = Vietnam, Periphery = Angola (resources)
Heartland theory:
- By mackinder
- suggested that whoever controlled the heartland - Europe and Asia - would control the world due to the area’s resources and strategic position
8
Q
Belt and Road initiative aims?
A
To improve/increase access to trading routes overland and at sea therefore increasing sphere of influence.
Hefty cost implications - trillions of dollars.
9
Q
What is the Shifting centre of gravity?
A
Asia is fast becoming a more dominant global region…
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.
10
Q
What does the term blue water navy mean?
A
A blue-water navy is a maritime force that can operate globally, across the deep waters of the open ocean. Blue-water navies are capable of projecting a nation’s power around the world and exercising sea control at long range
11
Q
What does diplomacy mean?
A
Negotiation and decision making between nations as part of International Relations.
12
Q
What does ideology mean?
A
A set of beliefs, values and opinions held by many people in a society. These determine what is considered normal or acceptable behaviour. Superpowers project their ideology onto others EG: Western beliefs about free speech.
13
Q
What are geostrategic policies?
A
Policies that attempt to meet the global and regional policy aims of a country by combining diplomacy with the movement and positioning of military assets.
14
Q
What is the Cold War?
A
A period of tension between ideologically rival superpowers, capitalist the USA and the communist USSR 1945-1990
15
Q
What is a unipolar world?
A
One superpower e.g during the British Empire
16
Q
What is a bipolar world?
A
Two superpowers dominant E.g The Cold War
17
Q
What is a multipolar world?
A
Groups of countries competing for power
18
Q
What is Neo-colonialism?
A
the control of less developed countries by developed countries through indirect means.
EG – TNC investment, Aid, trade, language, culture etc..
Can be a continuation of imperialist rule from more dominant country after colonialisation has ended
19
Q
What is capitalism?
A
free markets/private ownership
20
Q
What is communism?
A
centrally planned/govt owned
21
Q
What are ways that traditionally Western ideas can be established in more dependent countries?
A
Education (through aid/development)
Systems and technology/teaching and reading are often set up with more Western values and ideals or cultural ‘norms’ and even religion.
22
Q
What does the term Banana republic mean?
A
This is sometimes considered or used as a derogatory term.
Its original reference was to Central American countries whose economies were dominated by foreign banana-exporting corporations.
It has since become a term for underdeveloped countries dominated by foreign corporations.
23
Q
What does hegemony mean?
A
The dominance of a superpower over other countries
Can be a dominant power – EG the US military or more subtle power, sometimes known as ‘cultural hegemony” a really interesting theory from a prisoner of Mussolini named Grimsci – he observed power exerted through influencing opinion and that opinion becomes the ‘common sense’ view of the population.
24
Q
Why is a lack of growth in the EU, Japan and USA leaving space for other countries to rise?
A
- Slower productivity growth
- Demographic shifts
- Increased trade tensions
25
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the BRIC and MINT nations?
Brazil
* Strengths: Strong agricultural economy and exporter, energy independence, growing middle class, global cultural influence.
* Weaknesses: Small military capacity, economic inequality, political instability, environmental issues.
⸻
Russia
* Strengths: Large military, nuclear power, vast natural resources, UN Security Council seat.
* Weaknesses: Aging population, inequality, economy reliant on oil and gas, strained foreign relations.
⸻
India
* Strengths: Large, youthful, educated population; English widely spoken; nuclear armed.
* Weaknesses: Poor infrastructure, high poverty, tense regional relations.
⸻
China
* Strengths: Technologically advanced, major exporter, strong infrastructure, growing global influence.
* Weaknesses: Aging population, pollution, rising labor costs, limited geopolitical leadership.
⸻
Mexico
* Strengths: Part of USMCA trade bloc, improving democracy.
* Weaknesses: Crime issues, obesity-related health costs, skilled emigration.
⸻
Indonesia
* Strengths: Young, dynamic population; rich in natural resources.
* Weaknesses: Environmental degradation, poverty, political instability.
⸻
Turkey
* Strengths: EU trade links, NATO member, educated youth.
* Weaknesses: Political issues with minorities, regional instability.
26
Why is Japan unlikely to develop and grow much more?
Key Reasons:
1. Aging Population
* Japan’s population is getting older, which slows economic growth due to a shrinking workforce and rising healthcare costs.
2. Past Economic Crises
* A property bubble burst in 1989–90, leading to a major stock market collapse.
* The economy stagnated in what is now known as the “lost decades”.
3. High Savings, Low Spending
* High interest rates (4–6%) encouraged saving instead of spending, which slowed down economic demand.
4. Competition from Other Asian Nations
* Countries like South Korea and China became more competitive, overtaking Japan in tech and manufacturing.
Conclusion:
Japan serves as a cautionary tale that rapid economic growth does not guarantee long-term superpower status, and future predictions about global powers are often uncertain.
27
What are some examples of when global decisions might need to be made?
Peace-keeping/security
Crisis response – Natural Disasters/war/outbreaks of disease
Climate Change
28
What is the idea that powerful nations hold the role of 'Global Police'?
A characteristic of a true superpower is that weaker countries look to it to act in times of crisis.
This includes:
- intervening in war and conflict, especially when an internal conflict threatens to spill-out into other countries
- taking action in terms of crisis response, e.g. natural disaster, famine or a serious disease outbreak
- responding to terrorism, such as the threat from Al-Qaeda or ISIS responding to longer-term threats, such as climate-change-induced global warming
EG: The USA has intervened in foreign conflict many times over the past 40 years – map on P169.. As part of UN security, in coalition with other countries (but outside UN) and unilaterally (on its own).
29
According to the Charter, what are the UN's 4 purposes?
1. To maintain international peace and security
2. To develop friends relations among nations
3. To cooperate in solving international problems and in promoting respect for human rights
4. To be a centre for harmonising the actions of nations
30
How are TNC's a key player?
TNCs play a huge part in maintaining wealth, global reach and dominance of Superpower nations.
TNCs have financial global influence and therefore create economic leverage..
Governments compete to attract FDI from TNCs by offering deals and sometimes tax breaks.
TNCs are often innovators of new tech/products/brands - patents, brand logos and copyright. These may become highly valued and sought after resources. Research and development and Intellectual property rights can create a power imbalance and global dominance in this field.
31
Who are the top three most valuable brands in 2023?
1. Amazon
2. Apple
3. Google
32
What cultural impacts do TNC's have?
Consumerism – EG Apple.. Encouraged to spend/brand identity.. Easier to have all Apple products.
Capitalist values – EG social media (often owned by large, Western TNCs) spreads the idea that money = happiness and fulfilment.. A mainly capitalist concept.
Dominant countries with English-speaking language – around 15% of the world speaks English – about 5% as a first language.
Adaptation of selective other world cultures – Sushi has become popular in the West.. Billed as 'exotic', 'different' and healthy food from the East. Yoga – an eastern practice has been adopted by the West.
33
What are alliances?
these are usually a mutually beneficial relationship between nations.
It can be informal – possibly when countries share similar values/ideals or more formal – where there could be significant benefits for either party.
34
What is an example of an alliance?
The USA/UK “Special relationship” was a term first coined by Winston Churchill.
The two countries have similar ideals.
Although the relationship has had ups and downs
35
What are economic alliances?
Trade agreements between Nations. Some overlap with Military alliance groups.
Examples:
EU – Many alliances and overlaps with NATO
USMCA – United States, Mexico, Canada
ASEAN – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Founded in 1967, free trade bloc since 2009 – economic, cultural, security and political aims.
TNCs play a huge part in this and are able to become international companies with cooperation from many countries = Economic growth.
36
What are military alliances?
UN Security Council
NATO = A military alliance of 30 countries from Europe and North America = strength in numbers
NATO membership is open to “any other European state in a position to further the principles of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic area.”
ANZUS Treaty – set up in 1951 and includes Australia, New Zealand, US. Namely to protect the Pacific region. Also includes defense pacts with Japan, South Korea and the Philippines.
Collective Security Treaty Organisation – Russia plus border countries
SCO –Shanghai Cooperation Organisation – strategic partnership in Asia – covers a large geographical area..significant bloc
37
What is a 'Bloc'?
A ‘bloc’ is a group of countries with similar interests who have formed an alliance
38
What do the actions of IGO's depend on?
From member states they require:
1. Political will
2. Money
3. Willingness to act
39
What are the pillars of global security?
1. Political = UN Security Council and peacekeeping forces
2. Economic = IMF
3. Social = UN, WHO, food and agriculture organisation
4. Judicial = International court of justice and international criminal court
40
What agreements have been put in place to reduce emissions?
Reducing emissions – 1997 Kyoto Protocol: an international agreement set up to reduce carbon emissions.
Superseded by the Paris Agreement agreed at COP21 (2015) which came into force in 2016, a legally binding international treaty.
41
Why is air quality low in emerging economies?
Air quality is often low in emerging economies due to burning coal
42
Superpowers have high demand for which natural resources in particular?
Water – human consumption/industry/food production
Energy – homes/businesses/transport
Minerals – manufacturing/construction
Land - building/agriculture.
43
Why is this demand for natural resources often compounded/made worse?
Superpowers often:
- have large populations
- have high numbers of high-income residents = demand for resources
- Hold positions as hubs for transport and trade
- have access to a plentiful supply of natural resources
44
What are the general concerns regarding resource depletion?
It is widely believed that the current rates of resource depletion are unsustainable and that it is causing irreversible environmental damage.
45
What is the middle class defined as?
Globally, the middle class are defined as people with discretionary income (what is left after paying tax and other essentials – house/food etc. – Disposable income is what is left after essential tax/payments).
This money is then spent on consumer goods and holidays etc.
The global middle class is described in the text book as having an annual income of more than US$10,000.
This figure is more likely to be $14,000-$29,000 according to the PEW institute (2021)
46
Between which dates did the Cold War span?
1945-1990
47
Is the USA predominantly capitalist or communist?
Capitalist
48
Was the former USSR capitalist or communist?
Communist
49
Do you consider colonial rule ‘hard’ or ‘soft’ power?
Hard
50
Can you name the term for the process of cultural change that takes place when different cultures meet and interact? (often a dominant culture will transfer cultural ideas to a subordinate culture)
Acculturation
51
Name three mechanisms of possible neo-colonial control
Strategic alliances, Aid, TNC, Investment/FDI, Trade deals, Debt/Credit, IGO control (e.g IMF)
52
Modernisation theory saw _______________ as an answer to poverty?
Capitalism
53
What does IGO stand for?
Inter-Governmental Organisation
54
Name an example of an IGO and briefly explain what its aim/role.
EG: IMF – promotes global stability.
55
What is a sphere of influence?
A physical region over which a country believes it has economic, military, cultural or political rights.
This can extend beyond the ‘physical’ borders of a country - potentially a region outside the borders where the country still believes it has a right to influence – EG policies/resources.
56
Why are areas generally contested?
Resource demand:
Physical resources – minerals/ fossil fuels
Human resources are just as important, especially in the 21st Century! EG – labour, knowledge, skills – vital in building tech industry/finance.
57
What do intellectual property rights (IP) include?
Patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets
58
What is an exclusive economic zone (EEZ)?
The area of ocean extending 200 nautical miles beyond the coastline (or to the edge of the continental shelf), over which a nation controls the sea and sub-sea resources.
EEZ borders are decided by the UN in the event of a dispute.
59
What does the term international water mean?
A 'loose' term for any water beyond the EEZ – technically not under the jurisdiction of any country.
60
What are the physical and human causes of conflict over the resources in the Arctic?
The Arctic is particularly interesting because of the number of territorial claims over the Arctic (claims over - potentially 30% of the world's undiscovered gas and 13% of oil resources).
- Involvement of nations with nuclear capabilities
- Scientific exploration has increased – again, nations extending their sphere of influence
- Russia and Canada have military force dedicated to protecting their territorial claims
- Other nations with patrols over the Arctic include Norway, the UK, Canada and the USA
As the Artic becomes more accessible to shipping (global climate changes), this situation is likely to become more tense
61
What are the aims of the belt and road initiative?
To improve/increase access to trading routes overland and at sea therefore increasing sphere of influence – it is widely known and has hefty cost implications.
Believed to be in the trillions of dollars.
The straight of Malacca is a choke point for shipping and transport and the BRI would reduce China's reliance on this access point – see chokepoint map
62
What does the Belt and Road initiative consist of?
1. Overland silk road (based on the historic route from China through to Europe) including rail and road links
2. Maritime silk road - ports and shipping routes
3. Polar silk road – opening of the North Sea through the Arctic to Europe.
4. Also – road, rail and pipeline construction in E. Africa (incl 2Africa..)
63
What is the importance of the South China Sea?
The South China Sea and associated territories is another very complex example of contested sphere of influence.
In short – China is actively attempting to gain control over the South China Sea using a variety of strategies including:
1. Since 2012, launching and strategic positioning of aircraft carriers, including the potential for nuclear capabilities..
2. Occupying islands (some deserted) and reclaiming land on Firey Cross Reef
3. Since 2015, constructing a new port and airport on Mischief Reef
4. Developing a military base on the Subi Reef.
During the COVID pandemic, China announce two new administrative districts in the SCS (both of which are claimed by Vietnam) this increased tension and pressure in an already 'heated' area. (Xisha in the Paracel Is. And Nansha in the Spratley Is.
64
Consider China as PLAYERS in Africa.. Can we make comparisons to Colonial/imperial exploitation of the 19th and 20th Centuries?
Two examples of the growing relationship between China and African nations:
- China - reliance on oil from Angola, Nigeria and Sudan (as well as other minerals)
- African countries – importing manufactured goods from China as well as FDI in roads/rail networks.
How would we consider this relationship between China and African developing countries? Neo-colonial (exploitative) or mutually beneficial?
65
How does the shifting centre of gravity relate to the superpowers unit?
Asia is fast-becoming a more dominant global region..
Population vs GDP shows population growth in Asia and overall decline in Europe and N.America.
GDP also shifts.. Rapid growth and change in dominance.
Indonesia, China, India and Japan are all likely to have economies > US$ 5 Trillion by 2030 which means they would all be capable of significant military spending.
Maybe a case for India (and possibly Indonesia) to have a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Lots more jostling for the tops spots.
Will we still be in a multi-polar world?
66
How do the Middle East link to the Superpowers unit?
The Middle East is an area loaded with conflict and tension..
There are a number of causes of instability. As we have said before, the issues are complex and may be difficult to comprehend.
67
What does the term Arab Spring mean?
Pro-democracy, pro-human rights civil uprisings in 2011 that affected Syria, Tunisia, Libya, Bahrain and Iran Some governments were overthrown but, in many regions, instability followed.
68
What are the different acronyms to demonstrate IS and what does it refer to?
IS (Islamic State, aka: ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria), ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and Levant) or Daesh (an Arabic acronym)
A jihadist terrorist organization that rose to prominence in 2013 during the Syrian civil war, occupying parts of the Middle East and carrying out terrorist attacks worldwide.
One major (and globally recorded) event was in Libya, where their leader, Gaddaffi was overthrown in a public revolt, there was a mass evacuation from Tripoli.
69
What are the sources of instability in the Middle East?
Religion – Sunni and Shia Muslim groups in conflict
Resources – land
Oil and gas
Youth – young populations facing the prospect of high unemployment (consider regen topic.. What can this lead to?)
Governance – weak political systems/new democracies
History – many country borders disputed (legacy from Colonial period
70
What is economic restructuring?
The shift from primary and secondary industry towards tertiary and quaternary industry as a result of deindustrialisation.
It has large social and economic costs
71
What does the idea of nutrition transition refer to?
A change in diet from carbs towards protein, dairy products and fat
Includes more processed food, and is frequent in people who have transitioned from rural poverty to being urban, middle-class workers
72
What are the definitions for IGO's and TNC's?
IGOs: Organisations made up of member countries working together on global issues like trade, development, or security.
TNCs: Large companies that operate in multiple countries and control production and services globally.
73
Give me some examples of IGO's and TNC's
IGOs: IMF, World Bank, WTO, United Nations, European Union
TNCs: Apple, McDonald’s, Shell, Nike
73
What is the main purpose of IGO's and TNC's?
IGOs: To promote cooperation between countries and regulate global issues (e.g. trade agreements, development aid).
TNCs: To generate profit by expanding into global markets and reducing production costs.
74
Who controls IGO's and TNC's?
IGOs: Controlled by national governments who are member states.
TNCs: Controlled by private shareholders, boards of directors, and corporate management.
75
What are the roles of TNC's and IGO's?
IGOs: Set rules and frameworks that encourage globalisation (e.g. WTO promotes free trade).
TNCs: Directly drive globalisation by spreading products, services, and culture around the world.
76
What types of power do TNC's and IGO's have?
IGOs: Political and regulatory power.
TNCs: Economic and cultural power.
77
What are the impacts of TNC's and IGO's?
IGOs: Can promote development or enforce structural adjustment policies that affect economies.
TNCs: Bring jobs and investment, but can also exploit labour or cause environmental issues.
78
What are examples of 'Western' blocs of economic and political alliances in the world today?
NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
A military alliance of 31 countries, mostly in Europe and North America. Founded during the Cold War to counter the Soviet Union. Still active and expanding (e.g. Finland joined 2023).
EU (European Union)
Political and economic union of 27 countries. Promotes liberal values, free trade, and regional integration.
G7 (Group of 7)
A group of the world’s 7 largest advanced economies (USA, UK, France, Germany, Japan, Canada, Italy). Focus on global economic policy, development, and democracy.
Five Eyes
Intelligence-sharing alliance between USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Shows deep political and security ties.
79
What are examples of 'Eastern' blocs of economic and political alliances in the world today?
BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa)
An economic alliance of emerging powers that challenge Western dominance. Recently expanded (e.g. Saudi Arabia & UAE invited).
SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation)
Led by China and Russia. Focus on political, economic, and security cooperation. Members include Central Asian states, India, and Pakistan.
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) – led by China
Infrastructure and investment projects across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Seen as China’s way to build influence and counter the West.
Russia-China Axis
Growing political, military, and economic cooperation, especially since Russia’s war in Ukraine and China’s tensions with the US.
80
Who came up with Hard power, Soft power and Smart power?
It was introduced by Joseph Nye (political scientist) = he also came up with the idea of "smart power" which uses a combination of hard and soft factors to get their own way
81
What factors can affect superpower status?
Resources
Size and geographical position
Economic factors
Demographic factors
Political power
Military strength
Cultural influence
82
How do superpowers maintain power?
Hard power = economic + military
Economic power
Soft power = political + cultural
83
At the height of the British empire in 1922 the UK ruled what percentage of the worlds land area and how many people?
25% and 458 million people
84
How was the British Empire maintained?
The system was maintained mainly through the use of hard power - military
There was some soft power influence as well - introduction of British sports, media
85
Which countries took over superpower status after the fall of the UK?
The period after WWII saw the rise of the USA and USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) to form a bi-polar world
The result of this was the 'cold war'
86
What led to the collapse of the UK as a superpower?
The role of the UK in WWI and WWII, together with the Great Depression led to the collapse of the UK as a superpower
87
Why is China not yet a superpower?
The limited reach of its military:
- It only has one overseas base
- The navy rarely leaves the Indo-Pacific region
Its economic output is still lower than that of the USA
Approximately 25% of China's population live in poverty (less than US$5.50 a day)
Many people in China do not have access to good healthcare, education or clean drinking water
Lack of democracy
Censorship of media
Human rights abuses
China has sought to extend its influence investing in its navy and is looking to increase military bases overseas
It has launched initiatives such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to increase its political influence
88
What is the WEF?
World Economic Forum (WEF)
- Founded in 1971
- A Swiss non-for-profit organisation
- It promotes free trade and is in favour of TNCs
- It aims to bring businesses and governments together, encouraging public and private co-operation
- Meetings of the WEF take place each year in Davos bringing together politicians, businesses, economists, religious groups, media groups and many others
- The aim is to discuss global issues such as ongoing conflicts, climate change and economic systems
- It is intended that this will promote global links and provide ambitious solutions to global issues
89
Who are the top 10 TNC's by revenue in 2022?
TNC
Walmart
Retail
USA
No
Amazon
Retail
USA
No
State Grid
Electricity
China
Yes
China National Petroleum
Oil and Gas
China
Yes
Sinopec Group
Oil and Gas
China
Yes
Saudi Aramco
Oil and Gas
Saudi Arabia
Yes
Apple
Electronics
USA
No
Volkswagen
Automotive
Germany
No
China State Construction
Construction
China
Yes
CVS Health
Healthcare
USA
No
90
What are patents?
Patents are used by TNCs to protect their technology and innovations
These are intellectual property systems which are used to prevent technologies and medicines being copied
They protect the wealth of the developed countries where the TNCs usually originate
They favour developed countries and mean that many new technologies and medicines are unavailable to developing nations
The patents on new HIV treatments have made these drugs unaffordable in many developing countries where the disease is most prevalent
90
The 500 largest TNCs account for what percentage of world trade
70%
91
What are the patterns of trade currently?
Developed countries have greater participation in international trade than developing countries as a result of TNCs
Much global trade today is intra-company trade within the same company
92
Why have countries adopted Western cultures and values?
Economic influence and technology
The culture and values include:
Freedom of speech
Dress and music
Food - the spread of fast food outlets McDonalds, Starbucks and KFC
Use and importance of technology
Democracy
93
What role do superpowers and emerging nations play in global actions?
Crisis response
Conflict response
Climate change
93
In 1942 President Roosevelt proposed the global strategy of 'Four policeman', what did this strategy involve?
The strategy involved the USA, UK, China and Russia being the only armed nations
The four would work together to maintain global peace
Although this did not happen the four nations would become the the permanent members of the UN along with France
The concept of alliances was not new and various alliances exist across the globe
The alliances are focussed on:
- Military
- Economic
- Environmental
- Justice and peacekeeping
94
When was the UN founded?
The end of WWII by 51 countries
95
How many members does the UN have?
193
96
Who are the 5 permanent members of the UN Security Council?
China
France
Russia
UK
US
97
What is the UN Security Council?
The most powerful part of the UN
The western countries (UK, USA and France) have an advantage as they are able to outvote Russia and China who frequently vote together
The five members have power of veto and can reject any proposal
The security council is responsible for maintaining peace and preventing conflict. one way this is achieved is peacekeeping missions
98
What are the different superpower resource demands?
Water
Food
Fossil fuels
Minerals
99
Where is an area that has disputes over ownership?
Arctic = there is no international treaty to protect the environment
It is estimated that the Arctic contains 160 billion barrels of oil and 30% of the world's undiscovered gas
100
What is the oil drilling project known as?
The US has recently approved the Willow project in the north of Alaska
This will allow drilling for an estimated 600 million barrels of oil
101
What is a sphere of influence?
The sphere of influence is the area over which a country feels it has influence outside its own borders
The country has no legal or formal authority in the area
This can lead to tensions and conflict as countries compete to have control over land and/or resources
There are many areas across the world that are in the midst of tensions and conflict
102
Why is the South China Sea heavily contested?
There are a number of islands in the South China Sea which are claimed by different nations including China and the Philippines
The area is essential for trade as it forms the link between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, it is estimated that each year:
- Over 30% of global trade passes through the South China Sea - US$5.3 trillion
- Approximately 40% of the world's petroleum products pass through the area
The area is also globally significant in terms of biodiversity supporting coral reefs and almost 3,500 species of fish
Over 12% of the fish caught each year across the globe are caught in the region
The two main contested areas are the :
- Spratly Islands
- Paracel Islands
103
What ongoing economic challenges do the EU and USA face?
DEBT = In 2007-2008 there was a global debt crisis which started in the US
It rapidly spread around the world as so many countries are dependent on the US as a trade partner
ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING = There are two aspects to economic restructuring:
- The global shift of manufacturing to emerging and developing countries
- The shift in employment in developed countries to tertiary and quaternary economic sectors
- This has led to deindustrialisation
UNEMPLOYMENT = The USA and EU have experienced increased unemployment as a result of:
Deindustrialisation
Global financial crisis
SOCIAL COSTS = In areas where deindustrialisation has occurred the social costs have been high, many areas have experienced:
- An increase in people with mental health problems
- A decrease in quality of life
- An increase in migration from the area
- An increase in crime and vandalism
This has led to a need for investment, regeneration and retraining, all of which are expensive
The US and EU also face additional social costs from:
- An ageing population
- Decreasing working age population
This has led the UK, France and other countries to increase the state retirement age in a bid to reduce costs
103
Together how much of the world's population do China and India account for?
40%
104
How many nuclear powers are there currently?
9
105
A key part of being a superpower or emerging power is military strength
This is essential in the utilisation of 'hard power', the US defence budget accounts for what percentage of all government spending?
10%
106
What does NATO's nuclear deterrence policy state the weapons are there to do?
'preserve peace, prevent coercion and deter aggression'
107
What are economic costs of military power?
Naval power
Air power
Intelligence services
Space exploration
108
In 2030 it is predicted that what countries economic status will almost have surpassed the US?
China's
109
In 2050 what might the balance of powers be?
In 2050 there may be significant changes in the balance of powers
The world may be bi-polar with the US and China as the opposing superpowers
Alternatively it may be a multi-polar world with other emerging powers such as India and the EU achieving similar levels of power
It is not possible to accurately predict the changes as world events are unpredictable - recent events that may impact on the balance of power include;
- Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing conflict
- Brexit - the UK leaving the EU may weaken the power and influence of the union
