IBDP Global Politics - Core Concepts & Power

Front

Distinguish between 'Hard Power' and 'Soft Power'.

Back

Hard Power relies on coercion and force, using military or economic means (e.g., sanctions, invasion) to influence actors. Soft Power relies on attraction and persuasion, using culture, political values, and foreign policy to shape preferences (e.g., Hollywood, K-Pop diplomacy). Both are essential tools of statecraft.

Front

Define 'Smart Power' in the context of global politics.

Back

Smart Power is the strategic combination of hard and soft power resources. It asserts that effective global leadership requires deploying the full spectrum of power—military strength alongside diplomatic alliances and cultural influence—to achieve strategic objectives.

Front

Explain the concept of 'Structural Power'.

Back

Structural power refers to the power to shape and determine the global political and economic framework within which states and other actors operate. It allows actors to set the 'rules of the game' in institutions like the IMF or WTO, influencing outcomes without direct coercion.

Front

What is the 'Power To' vs. 'Power Over' distinction?

Back

'Power Over' is the ability to dominate or control others (zero-sum). 'Power To' is the ability to act or produce change (capacity). 'Power With' is collective power achieved through collaboration, while 'Power Within' relates to an individual's internal agency and consciousness.

Front

Define 'Sovereignty' as it applies to the modern state system.

Back

Sovereignty is the supreme authority of a state to govern itself within its territorial borders. It implies legal equality among states and the right to non-intervention. However, in the contemporary era, sovereignty is increasingly 'pooled' or limited by IGOs and treaties.