Military power has long been a central feature of global politics, but its role in the modern world has become more complex and contested. In IB Global Politics, military power refers to the ability of an actor to use or threaten force to influence others, protect interests, and maintain security. While it remains an important tool, it is no longer the sole or always preferred means of exercising power.
One key role of military power today is deterrence. States maintain armed forces and advanced weapons systems to discourage potential threats or attacks. The idea behind deterrence is that the cost of aggression will outweigh any potential benefits. Even when force is not used, the existence of military capability can shape behaviour and decision-making. This indirect influence highlights how military power can operate without active conflict.
Military power is also used for national and collective security. States rely on armed forces to defend borders, protect sovereignty, and respond to external threats. Military alliances and joint defence arrangements extend this role beyond individual states, allowing actors to pool resources and enhance security. In this context, military power is seen as a stabilising force that helps prevent large-scale conflict, even if it cannot eliminate insecurity entirely.
Another modern role of military power is intervention. Armed forces are sometimes used to respond to humanitarian crises, internal conflicts, or threats to international peace. These interventions may be justified as protecting civilians or restoring stability. However, they are highly controversial, as they raise questions about sovereignty, legitimacy, and unintended consequences. The IB expects students to evaluate both the motivations and outcomes of military intervention rather than assuming it is either necessary or harmful in all cases.
Despite its importance, military power has clear limitations in the modern world. Armed force is costly, destructive, and often ineffective at achieving long-term political goals. Many contemporary challenges—such as climate change, economic instability, and global health crises—cannot be solved through military means. Overreliance on force can damage legitimacy and provoke resistance, reducing overall influence.
Finally, the role of military power has been reshaped by technological change. Cyber capabilities, drones, and advanced surveillance have expanded what military power looks like, blurring the line between war and peace. This has increased uncertainty and ethical concerns, making military power harder to regulate and control.
For IB Global Politics students, analysing military power requires balance. Strong answers recognise that while military force remains relevant, its role has evolved and must be assessed alongside economic, diplomatic, and ideational forms of power.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is military power still important in global politics?
Yes, military power remains important for deterrence and security. States continue to rely on armed forces to protect sovereignty. However, it is no longer sufficient on its own. IB analysis should show how its role has changed.
What is deterrence and why does it matter?
Deterrence is the use of military capability to prevent aggression by threatening high costs. It allows influence without direct violence. Deterrence shapes behaviour even when force is not used. This makes it a key modern function of military power.
Why is military intervention controversial?
Intervention can violate sovereignty and lead to unintended consequences. While it may aim to protect civilians, it can also escalate conflict. The IB expects students to evaluate legitimacy, effectiveness, and ethics. Simple justifications are not enough.
Can military power solve modern global problems?
Military power is limited in addressing non-security challenges. Issues like poverty or climate change require cooperation and policy solutions. Overusing force can weaken legitimacy. This limitation is central to modern global politics.
How should military power be used in exam answers?
Students should define military power clearly and link it to specific roles such as deterrence or intervention. Evaluation of effectiveness is essential. Comparing military power with other forms of power strengthens answers. Balance is key for high marks.
