What Is Power in Global Politics?
In global politics, power refers to the ability of an actor to influence decisions, shape outcomes, or affect the behaviour of others on the international stage. Within the IB Global Politics course, power is treated as a core and contested concept, meaning it is central to political analysis but understood differently depending on perspective, context, and theory.
Traditionally, power has been associated with states and their material capabilities. From this viewpoint, power is often measured through military strength, economic wealth, population size, and control over territory. States with greater resources are assumed to have more influence over international events such as wars, trade negotiations, and diplomatic agreements. This understanding aligns closely with realist theories of global politics, which prioritize survival, security, and competition.
However, the IB Global Politics framework expands this definition significantly. Power is also relational, meaning it exists within relationships between actors rather than being something an actor simply possesses. A state may be powerful in one context but weak in another, depending on who it is interacting with and what issue is at stake. For example, a small state may exert influence through alliances, strategic geography, or moral authority despite limited material resources.
Power can also be structural, embedded within global systems and institutions. International organizations, legal frameworks, and economic systems can shape outcomes by determining who sets the rules and whose interests are prioritized. Structural power often operates invisibly, benefiting certain actors while constraining others without direct coercion. This form of power is particularly relevant when analysing global inequality and development.
Another key dimension is ideational power, which involves shaping ideas, values, and norms. Actors that influence how issues are understood—such as defining what counts as “security,” “development,” or “human rights”—can shape global agendas without using force or money. Media narratives, education systems, and cultural influence all play important roles in ideational power.
Finally, power in global politics is dynamic and changing. Globalization, technological advances, and the rise of non-state actors have altered how power is distributed and exercised. Power today is more diffuse, with influence spread across states, corporations, international institutions, and civil society.
For IB Global Politics students, understanding power requires recognising its multiple forms and applying them critically to real-world case studies. This nuanced approach is essential for high-level analysis and evaluation in assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does power mean in IB Global Politics?
In IB Global Politics, power means the ability of an actor to influence outcomes, decisions, or behaviours at the global level. It includes material, structural, and ideational forms of influence. Power is not fixed and depends heavily on context and relationships. The IB encourages students to see power as complex rather than purely military or economic. This broader definition supports deeper analysis in exams.
Is power only exercised by states?
No, power is exercised by both state and non-state actors. International organizations, NGOs, multinational corporations, and even individuals can influence global politics. These actors may shape policies, public opinion, or international norms. The IB syllabus emphasizes that modern global politics involves multiple centres of power. Recognising this helps students avoid overly state-centric answers.
What are the main forms of power?
The main forms of power studied are material power, structural power, and ideational power. Material power involves tangible resources like money and weapons. Structural power shapes the rules and systems of global interaction. Ideational power influences beliefs, values, and norms. Strong exam answers often reference more than one form.
Why is power described as a contested concept?
Power is contested because scholars and theories disagree on how it should be defined and measured. Different perspectives emphasize different sources of influence. The IB rewards students who acknowledge these debates rather than presenting a single definition. This shows critical thinking and conceptual understanding.
How should power be used in exam answers?
Students should clearly define power and apply it directly to the question. Using real-world examples strengthens analysis. Comparing different forms or perspectives on power can improve evaluation. Examiners look for depth, not just description, when assessing responses.
