Types of Power

What is power?

Power is the ability of an actor to create change and influence, or sometimes force, others to act in a way that benefits the actor.

What is hard power?

Hard power involves force or coercion to make another actor do something they would otherwise not do.

Who is associated with the concept of hard and soft power?

Political scientist Joseph Nye.

How can hard power be used through threats?

An actor can threaten or force another actor to act in a way they would otherwise reject.

How can hard power be used through incentives?

An actor can promise to provide something another actor needs in return for compliance.

Why is military power associated with hard power?

A strong military can threaten other states and can be used to force states to change their behaviour.

Does military power have to involve actual violence?

No. The size and capability of a military can threaten other states even when no violence occurs.

How can military strength influence state behaviour?

A strong military may deter other states or make a state more confident in using force.

How can military power affect governments internally?

Militaries can overthrow their own governments, as demonstrated by the military seizure of Myanmar's government in 2021.

How is economic power linked to hard power?

Economic strength and resources can be used to provide incentives or impose pressure to ensure compliance.

Why is economic power important to military power?

Maintaining a military is expensive and requires significant economic resources.

How can economic power be used as coercion?

States or other powerful actors can use financial incentives or economic pressure to influence others.