Notes on Power in International Relations

What is Power? (Week 3)

  • Host: Prof. Caleb Pomeroy, University of Toronto
Administrative Details
  • No class or tutorial next week.
  • No office hours next week.
  • Tutorials start this evening and tomorrow.
  • Read selected pages from syllabus readings.
Overview of Power in International Relations (IR)
  • The concept of power is central to IR, especially in contexts where no formal sovereign authority exists.
  • This week, various conceptions of power within IR are examined.
Key Readings:
  1. Haas, Ernst B. (1953). "The balance of power: prescription, concept, or propaganda?"
    • Focus: The re-emergence of the balance of power concept in international politics.
  2. Tickner, J. Ann (1988). "Hans Morgenthau's Principles of Political Realism: A Feminist Reformulation."
    • Focus: Analysis of gendered perspectives in IR theories.
  3. Henderson, Errol A. (2013). "Hidden in Plain Sight: Racism in International Relations Theory."
    • Focus: Examination of race's role within major IR frameworks.
Aspects of Power
1. The Balance of Material Power
  • Definition: Refers to the relative material capabilities of states, particularly military and economic strength.
    • Internal development: Military size, economic capability.
    • External development: Alliances, trade relationships.
  • Often serves as a baseline expectation in IR, closely tied to realism, which views IR primarily as power-driven.
2. A Feminist Reformulation
  • Text: Tickner argues for recognizing the traditionally male-dominated narratives in IR.
    • Questions the objectivity of national interest defined solely by power.
    • Advocates for acknowledging interdependence and cooperation.
3. A Racialized Phenomenon
  • Concept: Racism manifests in IR, influencing policies and perceptions of states and peoples.
    • Rooted in historical notions of European superiority, leading to practices like colonization.
    • Example: Historical references to the justification of colonial domination based on perceived civilization levels.
4. A Psychological Feeling
  • Idea: Power has psychological effects on individuals and states.
    • Power dynamics impact leaders' behavior and decision-making, contributing to aggressive foreign policies.
    • References to the adage by Lord Acton: "Power corrupts."
    • Impacts perceptions of security and threat.
Conclusion – Four Facets of Power in IR
  1. The balance of material power (military and economic strength).
  2. A feminist reformulation (recognizing gender-related perspectives).
  3. A racialized phenomenon (influence of race in policy and thought).
  4. A psychological feeling (individual and state responses to power dynamics).
Next Week's Session
  • Topic: What is Security, and What is War?