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SUPERPOWERS Flashcards

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1
Q

what factors are key in determining superpower status?

A

economics, politics, military, culture, demographics, access to natural resources

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2
Q

what is a superpower?

A

A nation able to project its influence and be dominant on a global scale

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3
Q

who are the Four MINT emerging powers?

A

Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, Turkey

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4
Q

what is a regional power?

A

A nation exerting influence over neighbouring countries within its region

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5
Q

give an example of a regional power in south africa

A

south africa

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6
Q

How dopes access to resources support superpower status?

A

Resources can be controlled, exported, and used to fuel economic growth

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7
Q

give an example of resource‑based power in the Middle East

A

Oil and gas reserves as they give OPEC states economic influence

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8
Q

Why does economic strength underpin superpower status?

A

It enables military spending, resource exploitation, cultural influence, and political power

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9
Q

what are the two key measures of economic strength?

A

GDP and levels of international trade

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10
Q

what percentage of global trade transactions are conducted in US dollars?

A

60%

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11
Q

which country has the highest global influx of FDI?

A

USA

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12
Q

Why do ageing populations weaken power?

A

they create high dependency ratios which reduce economic productivity

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13
Q

how does population size support superpower status?

A

Large populations provide a workforce, consumer market, and potential military personnel

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14
Q

what are the 2 main mechanisms for maintaining power?

A
  • soft power
  • hard power
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15
Q

what was another word to describe hard power?

A

punitive - exerting power through punishment/threat

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16
Q

what was another word to describe soft power?

A

incentivising - exerts power through incentives/attractive examples

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17
Q

what is power?

A

the ability to exact influence

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18
Q

list the past superpowers

A
  • UK - British empire - hegemon
  • france
  • Soviet Union (Cold War)
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19
Q

list the present superpowers

A

USA
China
Russia

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20
Q

list the possible future superpowers

A

NATO
EU
India/Japan: BRICS/MINTS

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21
Q

what is a superpower?

A

a country/body capable of influencing policy on a worldwide scale, and often in different regions at the same time

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22
Q

what are key features of a superpower?

A
  • has disproportionate influence over regional/global decisions
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23
Q

explain how physical size and geographic position can influence superpower influence

A

large country = more resources, people and therefore money –> large influence

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24
Q

explain how economic power can influence superpower influence

A

influence on global economy -> determine economic policies + powerful currencies

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25
explain how demographics can influence superpower influence
unified, skilled, plentiful, youthful workforce - military power
26
explain how political factors can influence superpower influence
trade, globalisation, policies
27
explain how military factors/strength can influence superpower influence
- greater military = greater protection + global reach --> threat
28
explain how cultural influence can influence superpower influence
cultural promotion/domination -> money earnt from music/film
29
explain how access to natural resources can influence superpower influence
- can decide prices downsides: - dependancy on land - can be controlled by other countries
30
what are some examples of hard power?
- military force - control of geostrategic locations - economic coercion - alliances
31
what are some examples of soft power?
- international links - attractive foreign policy - economic charity/aid program - popular cultural products - technological achievements
32
what are some examples of both hard and soft power?
- money/wealth - strong and stable gov. - industrialisation - land area
33
what are some arguments for soft power being 'dead'
- increased investment in military spending - frequent/increasing use of nuclear power e.g. Russia-Ukraine
34
what is unipolar power?
when the majority of the world is dominated by a single state or nation's military and economic power, and social and cultural influence
35
how much did the USA spend on its military in 2021?
801billion US dollars
36
how can alliances be examples of hard power?
- can be globally broad to outmatch challengers --> mutual defence - e.g. the US can position powerful air and naval bases worldwide
37
how was NATO formed?
by the US in the Cold War --> means the US is the greatest force within it - this ensures the global military presence of the USA
38
how has economic coercion been used by the USA?
it has extraordinary influence in Wold bank/WTO/IMF as they reflect the USA's economic interests e.e.g low tariffs, funding development projects, promoting capitalism
39
how hard the US used economic coercion against china?
- bans supercomputer chip sales to china and stops the export of chipmaking equipment to china - this ensures the USA retains a lead in the technological sector
40
how does the USA used economic influence as soft power? what is a counter to this?
- the USA is home to the second largest proportion of Fortune 500 companies (TNCs) -> this encourages free market capitalism - BUT the USA dominates local markets e.g. in Vietnam
41
how does the USA used cultural influence as soft power?
- rise of the consumer economy worldwide as wages increase + inequalities lessen - popular American lifestyle/westernisation - social media domination
42
what statistic shows how 19th century Britain was a global superpower?
the empire covered 1/3 of the total land surface of the world - this allowed global installation of political and economic values
43
what led to the decline of Britain as a superpower?
WWII exhausted it and led to decline
44
what are the challenges to the USA's status as a superpower?
- the rise of china - the BRICS
45
how is the rise of china a threat to the USA's status as a superpower? h=what is a counter to this argument?
- manufacturing: products are made cheaper in china - iPhone is made in china - the final assembly of iPhones is in china --> this increases the USA's trade deficit to china counter: the value of the iPhone is far higher to the US economy than the Chinese as the USA accounts for developing/marketing/design
46
what are some arguments against the USA as a hegemon?
- the emergence of challengers e.g. china + BRIC countries - eroding of soft power - military power does not always have the desired outcome e.g. Vietnam proxy war
47
what is the commonwealth?
a voluntary association of 50+ countries, most of which were a part of the British empire - the British monarch is consistently voted as head
48
what are the aims of the commonwealth?
- cooporation - interconnectedness - equality
49
how/when did the British empire use hard power?
- the US war of independence - Napoleonic wars - physical control of territory - 1857 rebellion of Indians - WWI
50
how/when did the British empire use soft power? what is a counter?
- successful foreign based companies e.g. the east India company -> collected taxes for military protection - BUT the east India company evolved from trade into a military base: The EIC maintained its own private armies, totalling roughly 260,000 soldiers at its height
51
what us mercantilism?
the term referring to a period of informal empire - these increase a nations' wealth by imposing governmental regulation
52
how have global patterns of power changed from 1850s to the modern day? (timeline)
- 1850s =-30 mins 50 secs multiplier world (European empires) - 1850s-1918 - unipolar worlds - British empire - 1945-1990 - bipolar world - Cold War - USA vs USSR - 1990 - present - unipolar world - US dominated world
53
how did communism and capitalism become so rivalled?
Cold War alliances -> the 50+ year divided the world and the two systems came to be seen as incompatible - proxy wars
54
what argument may support the idea that unipolar worlds will alway lead to more deaths?
the last hegemony ended in 2 world wars
55
outline mackinders heartland theory
argues that whoever controlled Europe and Asia would control the world - the 'heartland' was identified from Eastern Europe to Russia - the further you are from the heartland the less influence you have
56
what is a counter to the heartland theory?
Russia SHOULD theoretically be the worlds global power - its location and resources say so - however Russia has many borders and is therefore vulnerable to attacks from many sides - its ports are also frozen
57
what are the three development theories?
- wallerstriens world systems theory - modernisation theory - the dependancy theory
58
outline wallerstiens world systems theory
- argues that a nation's development is shaped by its position within the larger global power structure - core and periphery regions
59
what are the cons of wallerstiens world systems theory?
- overemphasises the role of globalisation + capitalism - relies heavily on economic causes e.g. underdevelopment
60
what are the pros of wallerstiens world systems theory?
- explains internal inequalities e.g. regional - can be applied to a number of fields e.g. race/gender
61
outline the modernisation theory
- capitalism is the key to solving poverty - need industrialisation to achieve capitalism
62
what are the cons of the modernisation theory?
it oversimplifies the complexities of development into 3 stages - over reliance of capitalism - lacks global context - Colonialism, and the impact this had on the development of some countries are not taken into account or are underestimated - The model assumes all countries start at the same point (same resources, population, climate etc.)
63
what are the pros of the modernisation theory?
clear + simple framework - explains HOW countries can get richer
64
outline the dependancy theory
- developing countries remain dependant on wealthier nations --> this reliance is the cause of poverty
65
what are the trade patterns described by the dependancy theory?
LICS give raw materials and imports manufactured products - opposite ofr HICs
66
what are the pros of the dependancy theory?
explains the cycle of poverty and historical reasons for slower growth
67
what are the cons of the dependancy theory?
focuses on external factors of development (other countries as the cause) + fail to address internal issues - potentially over pessimistic - Developed countries have lost their power to control developing countries: The global system is now controlled by TNCs and the World Trade Organisation
68
what are the similarities between the modernisation and dependancy theory?
- they criticise unfair trade rules (but for different reasons: modernisation = too protectionist, dependancy = too free)
69
what are the similarities between the modernisation and world systems theory?
- they acknowledge that movement is possible: a country can transgress from LIC->NEE->HIC
70
what are the similarities between the word systems and dependancy theory?
- 'switched off' countries are the result of marxism
71
how are all the development theories similar?
they all recognise that west-central investment is needed for growth
72
how to superpowers attempt to control the global economy?
through NGOs such as: world bank, WEF, WTO, IMF
73
describe the WEF
- promotes public-private cooperation through bringing businesses together - helps dissolve conflicts - founded in 1971 - members meet annually in Davos, Switzerland
74
which NGO do TNCs benefit allot from?
the WEF due to their encouragement of global links and policies e.g. low taxation
75
what is a downside of the WEF?
that the instinct pf national voters can sometimes conflict with the WEFs globalised ideas
76
what is the main aim of the IMF?
to stabilise global currencies
77
how does the IMF help achieve its main aim?
- funds can be created for countries facing heavy debts - promotes capitalism - voting rights of countries are proportional to the money invested in the fund
78
why can the world bank sometimes be seen in a bad light?
- had a bad reputation for giving loans too costly to pay back - financing environmentally damaging projects
79
what is the main aim of the WTO?
to reduce trade barriers + free up global trade
80
what is a downside to the WTO?
- although here are negotiations between members over decisions, no votes are ever actually taken: bargaining favours the EU + USA
81
what statistic regarding the east India company is an example of how TNCs are dominant economic forces in the global economy?
in the 18th/19th century much of India was run by the east India company - the company controlled trade routes and ruled 20% of the world's population
82
what statistic show s that change in TNC power?
- in 2006 6/10 top TNCs were American -> now only 3/10 - rapid growth of Chinese companies
83
what percentage of all global trade does the UNCTAD estimate that TNCs account for?
80%
84
what is the effect of increased global trade leading to increased exports from developing countries?
- takes power away from western economies into emerging economies - makes TNCs immensely powerful - trade is more between companies instead of countries
85
what is a patent law?
the granting of exclusive right of ownership/possession of intellectual property by a state to an investor
86
what is the TRIP agreement?
The TRIPS Agreement requires Member countries to make patents available for any inventions, whether products or processes, in all fields of technology
87
how do TRIPS favour TNCs?
TNCs can protect their inventions to maintain market dominance and facilitate the global spread of their products/culture
88
in 2015 how many new patents were registered in the USA?
57000
89
what examples show the downsides of patents?
- patents developed by pharmaceutical companies make medicines unaffordable for poor countries - genetically modified crops are controlled by TNCs -> can produce seeds that will not germinate for a second year, forcing farmers to buy new seeds
90
what are the arguments for TNCs as the new superpowers?
- huge affects on global economy e.g. east India company - patent law protect TNC rights - global scale impacts e.g. westernisation
91
what are the arguments against TNCs as the new superpowers?
- not all TNCs have huge effects on the global economy - East India company was an exception - they rely on national governments to enforce protectionist policies such as patent laws - national governments grant licences for natural resources --> national govs. are really the ones in control?
92
explain kondratieff cycles
- suggest that capitalist economies experience long-term cycles marked by distinct periods of economic growth and decline driven by major technological innovations
93
what is the theory of Orientalism?
It argues that the "West" (Occident) has historically constructed a distorted, stereotypical, and mythical image of the "East" (Orient) to justify colonial domination, power, and superiority: -- The West defines itself as rational, developed, and superior by contrasting itself with a constructed "Other" that is perceived as irrational, underdeveloped, and inferior
94
what was orientalism historically used to justify?
colonialism - '"Global North" perspectives continue to essentialize the "Global South" as needing Western intervention'
95
in 2016 how many members of the UN were there?
193
96
what are the branches of the UN that we need to know about?
- UN security council - UN climate conferences - the UN itself - the international court of justice
97
describe the international court of justice
the judicial arm of the UN - has 15 judges representing global regions - 5 of these are permanent member states - handles disputes between countries
98
how is the UN involved in climate change?
- hosts annual UN climate conferences since 1995 - e.g 2015 Paris agreement for reduced emissions
99
what is the role of the UN Security Council?
--> maintaining international peace and security to the Security Council, which may meet whenever peace is threatened 5 permanent members: UK, USA, China, France, Russia
100
who are examples of military alliances in 'international players and global policing'? describe them.
- NATO - a collective defence pact - ANZUS - a security Pact between new Zealand/australia/USA: support US presence in the pacific + has joint military efforts e.g. in Afghanistan
101
who are examples of environmental alliances in 'international players and global policing'? describe them.
the IPCC - supports the UNFCCC treaty and aims to stabilise greenhouse gas levels -> represents 120+ countries and monitors global climate research
102
who are examples of economic alliances in 'international players and global policing'? describe them.
- EU: promotes free trade + free movement to reduce inequality and uphold human rights - NAFTA: USA, Mexico, Canada: no free movement, but promotes trade - ASEAN: 10 southeast asian nations: promotes economic/cultural/legal cooperation
103
why did trump criticise NAFTA and when?
-in 2016 - most likely as lower Mexican labour costs shifted manufacturing south
104
what statistic shows the growth of the EU?
- 1956 = 6 members - 2016 = 28 members
105
what is the idea that a superpower has the right to intervene in international issues/conflicts?
world police
106
which country acts as 'world police'? give examples
the USA - Israel - gaza, russia-ukraine, proxy wars e.g. Korean
107
what are the benefits of world policing?
- reinforces superpowers status - benefits from interventions
108
what are the cons of world policing?
- loss os sovereignty - conflicts can be unpredictable e.g. Afghanistan - can be unintended consequences of policing conflicts
109
what are the characteristics of a 'world police'?
- large and rich: enough money to afford global response - knowledge of the issue - may reduce unintended consequences - global reach for a quick response
110
what are peacekeepers
military personnel enrolled for some time by the UN - stationed all around the world e.g. Cyprus border
111
what is a sphere of influence?
an area over which a superpower expects to exert disproportionate influence
112
list the current spheres of influence
- crimea - South China Sea - the arctic ocean - counterfeit goods
113
who is the Crimea conflict between?
russia ukraine
114
who is the south china sea conflict between?
china south east Asia
115
who is the artic sea conflict between?
- USA - canada - asia - russia
116
which superpowers are involved in the artic ocean where of influence conflict?
- russia - canda - alaska - Norway - denmark
117
which convention states a law over sphere of influence in the sea?
- the UN convention on the law of the sea: states a country can control the seabed within 200 miles off its coastline
118
hey are there tensions over the Arctic Ocean?
- overlapping sphere of influence - the increasingly accessible mineral wealth beneath the arctic are desirable by many - thawing of sea ice = opportunity for more transport routes - oil/gas drilling is increasingly possible further into the arctic
119
which statistic shows how the arctic ocean is becoming increasingly used for transport routes?
- 46 cargo ships sailed here in 2012 - 71 sailed here in 2014
120
how much of the worlds untapped oil and gas does the arctic supposedly contain?
- 1/8 of the worlds untapped oil - 1/4 of the worlds untapped gas
121
what military actions have the countries involved in the arctic sea conflict taken?
- since 2002 candy has carried out military exercises in the arctic - Norway has expanded its navy - russia carries out arctic bomber patrols
122
what positive outcome could the melting sea ice in the artic give to Russia?
- could revitalise the historic europe-asia sea link - 7200 miles long - 37%shorter than the southern route
123
why are there tensions over the South China Sea?
- china disputes where it can take resources from - China wants to extend its reach to the parcel islands they may have natural reserves/rich fishing grounds
124
which superpowers are involved in the South China Sea conflict?
usa/china dispute - US wants to challenge the 90% claim that china has over the south china sea
125
how is the South China Sea conflict impacting the environment?
damage to ecosystems through the creation of artificial islands and military actions - 571 species oof coral reefs at risk
126
how is the South China Sea conflict impacting the locals?
livelihoods of local fishermen threatened
127
when did Russia take Crimea?
2014
128
when did Russia invade Kyiv?
2022
129
why did Russia not want Ukraine to join NATO?
Russias Black Sea fleet was kept in Crimea
130
what were the impacts of the 2022 Kyiv invasions?
- 11 million displaced, 1/4 of the population in poverty - GDP decreased by 30% - 30 of land contaminated with landmines
131
where is the world is involved in counterfeit goods production? why?
Thailand sitarists e.g. Patpong district - lack of enforcement around IPR - few criminal cases have led to sentencing due to slow and corrupt law enforcement
132
why are there tensions between the USA and Thailand surrounding counterfeit goods?
- USA accuses Thailand of abusing TRIPS agreement
133
which facts/statistics show how Asia economically contest the USA on a global scale?
- 2000-2016 = china grew from 6th to 2nd largest economy - global economic centre of gravity moving towards Asia - asia receives roughly 50% go global FDI
134
how many Chinese own mobile phones?
over 1 billion
135
which political/culutral tensions exist within Asia?
- Taiwan-China - India-pakistan (Kashmir) - india-china border disputes in the Himalayas (military standoffs) - Bangladesh-india - tnesions over Ganges water extraction due to water security
136
how much of global co2 emissions is china responsible for?
1/3
137
how much have chinas emissions increased since 1990-2013?
increased by 286% ( compared to 53% globally)
138
what are the economic impacts for Africa of china being a contesting hegemony to the USA?
in 2015 china was Africas largest trading partner: 74% of African imports went to china - Africa received $60billion in Chinese FDI by 2015 through mining, agriculture, and banking, IT - Chinese investment in infrastructure projects e.g. th Tazara railway
139
what are the social impacts for Africa of china being a contesting hegemony to the USA?
- over 1 million Chinese workers have moved to Africa since 2005 - china has trained African personnel in various sectors
140
how has China been economically beneficial to Pakistan?
- China's Belt and Road Initiative invested US$46 billion into Pakistan
141
how might the middle east be a threat to Chinas proposed hegemony?
- Afghanistan is still unstable after the 1979 Soviet invasion - islamist uprisings in countries like Iraq and Syria
142
what id the main religious tension in the Middle East?
sunni vs shia
143
what consequences for the environment does the Middle East cause?
- oil infrastructure is targeted in conflicts e.g. gulf war + Iraq 2003 - oil spillages cause environmental degradation
144
how many Chinese owned firms are there in Africa?
- over 10,000, 90% of which are privately owned
145
how have Chinese companies tailored to African needs?
created techno-cameras for darker skin
146
what 4 facts show the Neo-colonial relationship between China and Africa?
- neo-colonial trade patterns -> Africa exports raw materials and imports finished goods - 28% of Zambias national debt is to china (fear of dept dependancy) - reports of racial segregation in projects - china often controls operations/constructions
147
from 2012-2017 how many people were brought out ov poverty and where?
china - 68.5 million
148
why does china have low wage workers?
because it has a population of 1.4 billion
149
what % of global GDP does the USA account for? what about china?
- USA = 22.4% -China = 13.4%
150
how many aircraft carries does the use have compared to china?
- USA = 20 - china = 1
151
how much have chinas emissions increased by since 2018?
up by 4%
152
which statistic show show china is below the population replacement level?
- birth rate of 1.57 - ageing population
153
what are the economic problems superpowers could encounter?
- debt - unemployment - coast of maintaining military - economic restructuring - social costs.g. healthcare + schools
154
what is economic restructuring? which model links to this?
a euphemism for deindustrialisation -- development into tertiary/quaternary sector jobs - can relate the clark fisher model here
155
what are the consequences of the EUs ageing population?
- smaller number of working age people -inadequate tax revenue - rising health costs - lower fertility rates
156
why has the EUs population begun to age?
better healthcare, technology and diets means that people live longer
157
what deters seniors from taking vatic societal roles?
ageist stereotypes
158
what're the causes of high youth unemployment?
- imbalances between training and requirements oof the economy - AI replacing jobs: has taken middle ground jobs and left two extremes: boring/low paying jobs/highly skilled educated work
159
what proportion of young people in Greece are unemployed?
1/3
160
what is a debt crisis?
when a country is in danger of not meeting its debt obligations
161
what was the global debt crisis?
2008-2009 - rose largely from the deregulation of US + European mortgage lending markets - these banks gave out risky loans and subprime mortgages - when house prices fell by half banks and investors suffered huge losses - caused the Great Recession - globalisation meant that banks all round the world were affected
162
wha were the affects of the global debt crises on USA superpower status?
- eroded global confidence in American capitalism - undermined reputation for financial stability and leadership
163
wha were the affects of the global debt crises on Chinese superpower status?
- boosted appeal of communist ideologies (its tight financial controls meant it debt with the crisis well)
164
what is austerity?
Austerity refers to a set of economic policies implemented by governments to reduce public sector debt and budget deficits, typically during times of economic recession or stagnation
165
which country has the biggest army?
China
166
where is the fastest economic growth occurring and why?
in NEEs due to manufacturing - 5/10% increase in GDP per year
167
why is there slow economic growth in HICs?
service growth is variable - 1/2% growth/year
168
what is a characteristic of growth in LICs and why?
- growth is very variable due to the random distribution of raw materials
169
what was a youth response to austerity measures and why?
- austerity results in youth unemployment as it only leaves low paid jobs - the Tottenham riots were partially fuelled by this youth unemployment
170
what are the 5 types of military spending?
- naval - nuclear weapons - air power - intelligence servies - space exploration
171
how much does the UK spend on its navy annually?
over £230billion
172
what is the specific role of the navy?
protection of sea lanes
173
what are the risks associated with nuclear weaponry?
global catastrophes e.g. MAD + the cold war
174
which type of military spending is the most expensive?
nuclear weaponry
175
what are the roles of nuclear weaponry?
- deterrence - geopolitical influence - national security assurance
176
what are the two negatives of nuclear weaponry?
- not hugely useful in war atm as use of them would result in MAD - environmental concerns
177
by 2075 how much would the uK have spent upgrading trident?
roughly £260 billion
178
what is 'Trident'?
the UKs sole nuclear weapons system
179
what is a downside to air power?
- vulnerable to cyber and electronic warfare
180
why is air power the second most expensive source of militating spending?
research and development are constantly needed to upgrade and maintain combat aircrafts
181
what are the advantages of military air power? (3)
- more able to give humanitarian aid - less reliance on foreign supplies - strategic conflict advantage
182
what are the 4 downsides of intelligence services?
- very labour intensive and therefore expensive - difficult to oversea - any errors have serious consequences - rise of abuse from political leaders
183
what is the specific advantage of intelligence services?
counter terrorism
184
what are the downsides of space exploration?
- high costs -- money better spent on earth? - risk to human life
185
what are the advantages of space exploration?
- scientific economic growth though investment in technology - increased International cooporation - humanities long term survival
186
what are the pros of not investing in the military?
- focus shifts onto other industries - lower taxes - gives the country a peaceful image and attracts investors
187
what are the cons of not investing in the military?
- very vulnerable to aggression - lack of disaster response - inability to project power and protect national interest
188
what are the 4 perceived future balances of global power?
- US hegemony - Asian century - regional mosaic - the new Cold War
189
describe a future world under US hegemony. why is this type of future likely/not likely
- unipolar likely: USA = 800 military bases worldwide + USA has the highest military spending by far not: the military spending gap is being narrowed by china
190
describe a future world under an Asian century. why is this type of future likely/not likely
- unipolar: china and its asian allies likely: 2000 = US trade 4x that of china, 2024 = chinas trade its 0.9 trillion more than the USAs not: Chinese not well globally spoken, the military power of other countries, USA not likely to give up hegemony easily
191
describe a future world under a regional mosaic. why is this type of future likely/not likely
- multipolar: USA/china/india/russia/brazil likely: population projections out India at no.1 and Nigeria at no.2 by 2100 + there is an increase in soft power amongst the BRICs e.g. film production not: 2014 combined GDP of BRICS was 8% less of the USAs alone this may have a slow onset as population changes take time
192
describe a future world under 'the new Cold War'. why is this type of future likely/not likely
- bipolar: usa + china likely: - economic projections: china overtakes USA in GDP size by 2030 + India overtakes USA in GDP size by 2050 - china has a large no. of allies: 37 in support but only 22 willing condemn under prosecution not: - china has contrasting cultural ideologies leading to hesitation towards political ties - Chinese + mandarin not as well spoken as English due to British colonialism
193
from 2000-2005 how much did Kiribati sea levels rise?
12cm in 5 years
194
when has the USA used hard power historically?
- 1945: Hiroshima + Nagasaki bombings - post 1945: Cold War - 40 years of proxy wars e.g. 1965-75 Vietnam war
195
when has the USA used soft power historically?
- 1945 establishment of the UN - The Marshall Plan - sent $12 billion in aid to Western Europe
196
when has the USSR used hard power historically?
- WWII - 1979-89 Soviet-Afghan war (unsuccessful)
197
when was the collapse of the USSR as a superpower?
1990 collapse of communism - USSR split up into its member states
198
what is neo-colonialism?
the use of economic/political/cultural power to influence other countries
199
which factors can be used to measure power?
- GDP total: how much money a country has - military power and spending - balance of trade - % of working age population - birth rate - number of trade organisations - no. of international films produced - no. of patents
200
what is a patent?
a government authority or licence conferring a right or title for a set period, especially the sole right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention.
201
what is Indias GDP per capita?
1.25
202
what is the USAs GDP per capita?
0.77
203
what is chinas GDP per capita?
0.44
204
what is Russias GDP per capita?
0.19
205
which emerging countries make up the BRICs?
- Brazil - russia - india - china
206
which statistics support Brazils economic emergence?
- it produces half of South Americas GDP - has huge natural resources + is food/energy self-sufficient - 3rd largest producer of iron ore
207
what are the political obstacles to Brazils development into superpower status?
- accusations of corrupt governance - annual protests since 2013 due to spending cuts
208
how might Brazils culture help its superpower status?
- football nation reputation: hosted 2014 football world cup
209
how might Brazils demographic help its superpower status?
contains 1/2 of South Americas population (210 million)
210
how might Brazils demographic hinder its superpower status?
- ageing population - low fertility rate: 6 in 1990 to 1.8 in 2015
211
what are the positives about brazils environment?
- amazon rainforest: high biodiversity: 13% of all known species - supports global initiatives such as the UN conference on Climate Change
212
what are the negatives about brazils environment?
- issues with deforestation, poaching and pollution
213
which statistic supports Russia economic emergence?
has the 9th largest economy
214
what are the economic obstacles to Russias development into superpower status?
- very dependant on oil/gas and therefore vulnerable to global price fluctuations - manufacturing has halved since 1991 giving it an unbalanced economy - very unequal
215
which statistic shows the inequality in Russia?
the richest 1% control 71% of wealth
216
how has Russia maintained a strong military presence?
- has increased its military spending - it maintains political influence over former USSR borders -has 7200 nuclear weapons compared to USAs 7100
217
what are the cultural limitations for Russias development into superpower status?
Russian is not well spoken beyond former USSR borders
218
what is Russias fertility rate?
1.78 in 2015 low
219
does Russia have concern for the environment? what fact supports this?
no - toxic waste from Chernobyl 1986 not cleared up properly
220
what statistic shows how India has passed its manufacturing peak?
- manufacturing made up 17% of GDP in 1995 - now it is only 14%
221
how has India implemented and used the English language?
- English speaking eduction system has led its demographic to learn the language - its IT industries can therefore be outsourced
222
what factors hinders Indias economic development into superpower status?
- poor energy and water infrastructure: power cuts are frequent e.g. the July 202 one affecting 620 million people - its government faces large debts leading to reduction in the value of the rupee - 20% live in abject poverty
223
which factors support Indias economic development into superpower status?
- it has 672 million voters - gives it the largest democracy - is a founding member f the UN and G20
224
where is Indias military ranked and in terms of what?
- ranked 4th largest military power in terms of weaponry and personnel (ranked by global Fire Power)
225
what are Indias cultural advantages?
- birthplace of 4 religions: hinduism/Sikhism/Buddhism/Jainism - Bollywood
226
how many films does Bollywood produce annually?
1200
227
where does India stand in terms of population size?
2nd largest population (to china) - 1.27 billion
228
what % of Indias population is of working age?
66.2%
229
what % of all the worlds plant and bird species are found in India?
6%
230
what are Indias environmental downsides?
- pollution and its growing economy threat Indias plant and bird populations - serious pollution: 3rd largest co2 emitter - has some of the worst urban slums
231
what % of chinas adult population graduated and when? why is this a problem?
2% of chinas adult population graduated in 2009 - affects the potential knowledge economy
232
why might china struggle to establish itself economically?
- massive levels of debt
233
why might chinas politics hinder its development into superpower status?
- one party dictatorship - not very globally involved
234
where does chinas army stand globally?
ranked largest
235
how much does china spend on its military annually ?
$216.4 billion (2nd to US)
236
what is the downside to chinas military?
has a small global reach
237
what cultural factors might hinder chinas development into superpower status?
- few global brands - Chinese not well spoken globally - western culture is largely American (competition)
238
what demographic factors may hinder chinas development into superpower status?
- ageing population die to its former one child policy - most Chinese people retire at 51 - isolated in terms on migration
239
how much did co2 emissions rise in china from 1990--2013?
rose by 286%
240
what % of global emissions does china produce?
33%
241
how might the BRICs being in power create global stability?
- increased development of renewables - main aim = reducing poverty - more checks on tyrannical power - potentially more corporative power structure
242
how might the BRICs being in power create a risky global environment?
- competition for remaining finite resources e.g. fossil fuels and rare earths - russia/china competition with USA - transition periods are inherently risky e.g. countries testing boundaries
243
how can a country's 'willingness to act' be measured?
through the number of global agreements they attend/make
244
give an example of 'willingness to act' concerning the environment
the EU Paris agreement: aims of reducing co2 emissions to pre-industrial levels
245
why are poorer countries not as significant in their 'willingness to act'?
they have minimal environmental impacts
246
why might HICs be hesitant in their 'willingness to act'?
they may prioritise their economies over the environment due to BRIC competition
247
why does russia prioritise its security over the environment?
NATO is still active as an anti-USSR organisation
248
which model displays how 'willingness to act' changes with economic development?
Kuznets curve
249
how doe the Kuznetsk curve display how 'willingness to act' changes with economic development?
it suggests that initially, economic development worsens environmental degradation, but then improves after reaching a certain threshold
250
how do superpowers contribute to environmental degradation?
- they have high resource demands - they have very high CO2 emissions, therefore contributing disproportionately to climate change
251
which case studies can be used for the environmental degradation caused by superpowers?
- Bougainville + the copper mine - Zambia
252
what is predicted to happen to middle class consumption in emerging superpower states and why? what is the consequence of this?
it is predicted to grow by a large amount: - mass consumption is encouraged by throw away culture and the race to the bottom consequence = severe environmental degradation
253
which theory else to explain Rising Middle‑Class Consumption in Emerging Superpowers?
the Modernisation Theory (Rostow, 1960) argues that all countries progress through linear stages of development, moving from traditional societies to high mass‑consumption economies
254
how do emerging countries have negative effects on the environment?
more developed countries have the infrastructure for raw material extraction - this ca be bad for the environment e.g. Boungainvile
255
which two statistics show the soaring food demands in China to meet middle-class demands?
- meat consumption up by 99% - fruit/nut consumption up by 98%
256
how much has the global middle class grown?
has grown by 500 million (2000-2014)
257
how are mobile phones and the middle class a threat to the planet?
- growing middle class = higher demand for mobile phones - mobile phones contain toxic components like lithium
258
what are the arguments against the growing middle class as a threat to the planet?
- middle class growth drives economic development + stability: every 10% growth = + 0.5GDP - global agreements display willingness to act e.g Paris agreement - technological advancements = renewable energy - education/awareness fosters climate action + shifts markets towards greener products/ethical sourcing
259
when did china join the global climate effort?
2016
260
how do emerging powers threaten geopolitical stability?
- unresolved overlaps in territorial claims e.g. artic + South China Sea - environmental impacts e.g. overexploitation of Africa - increased demand for resources e.g. bougainville - market competition for materials e.g. trade wars + russia for Crimea
261
what are the arguments against the idea that emerging powers threaten geopolitical stability?
- economic cooperation e.g. chinas belt and road initiative + 1978 open door policy - poverty = a threat to geopolitical stability: reducing poverty = solution e.g. Chinas investment in Africa e.g. Tanzam railway - actions of powers in less developed countries e.g. Bougainville may offer an opportunity for economic growth - climate initiatives in BRIC countries
262
when was chinas open door policy?
1978
263
which evidence supports the claim that superpowers have always historically destroyed the environment for economic growth?
- Britain and industrialisation: London smogs - USA rust belt - Nuclear testing
264
who's is the pessimistic outlook on human consumption? what does their theory state?
Malthus: - populations grow until the environment cannot support them and they all die - booms and busts in population throughout human history - there are 'natural checks' through crises and conflicts to reduce the population: black death, WWI/II - future malthusian catastrophes include famines and natural disasters
265
who's theory opposes Malthus and how?
Boserup - we haven't all died yet - the 'green revolution' will be achieved through innovations and technological advances e.g. larger animals, seeds popping twice in one year, renewable energy
266
what are the two political and economic theories we need to know?
- orientalism - fukuyamas theory
267
what is fukuyamas theory?
- capitalism in the final and ultimate form of human government - under capitalism war is less likely
268
what is political power?
A country's ability to influence decisions of other states
269
in which IGOs do superpowers hold influence?
UN, NATO, IMF, World Bank
270
why is military reach important for superpower status?
It allows a country to achieve geopolitical goals globally
271
what is cultural influence?
The ability to shape beliefs, values, and lifestyles in other countries
272
what are two ways in which cultural influence is spread?
Media and transnational companies
273
give some statistics showing why the UK has consistently ranked top 2 globally for soft power
- British literature - Shakespeare, Dickens, Austen - music e.g. the beetles - The BBC is one of the world's most trusted broadcasters - Over 500,000 overseas students study in the UK each year
274
what was China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
A global infrastructure and investment strategy launched in 2013 to expand China’s economic and geopolitical influence.
275
what was the main aim of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
To improve global connectivity through transport, energy and digital infrastructure linking China to Asia, Africa and Europe.
276
what were the two key components of the BRI?
The Silk Road Economic Belt (land routes) and the Maritime Silk Road (sea routes).
277
how did the BRI increase China’s economic influence?
By expanding trade routes, securing markets and increasing dependence on Chinese finance and construction
278
How did the BRI increase China’s political influence?
Countries receiving loans and investment may support China in IGOs and align with its foreign policy.
279
Why the BRI is seen as a challenge to US dominance?
It expands China’s global reach and creates a China‑centred economic sphere.
280
what is the meaning of 'debt‑trap diplomacy'?
The idea that China lends money to countries that may struggle to repay, increasing China’s leverage over them.
281
how does the BRI strengthen Chinas soft power?
Through cultural ties, education programmes and increased visibility of Chinese companies abroad.
282
how does the BRI strengthen China’s hard power?
Strategic ports and infrastructure can support military logistics and naval access.
283
How does the BRI fit into Edexcel’s superpower specification?
It demonstrates how emerging powers use economic, political and military strategies to extend global influence.
284
what Is Indias political weakness?
- Poor relations with some neighbours including China and Pakistan
285
what are Indias 3 political strengths?
- Member of the G20 and UN - Largest democracy in the world - Has diplomatic relations with 201 nations
286
what are Indias 3 economic strengths?
- The 5th largest economy in the world - Increasing influence over global financial decision making - Attracts many TNCs and FDI
287
what is indias economic weakness?
- Many people remain in poverty
288
what are India's 3 military strengths?
- Fifth largest military expenditure in the world - Second largest armed force - A nuclear power
289
what are India's cultural strengths?
- Bollywood now produces more films a year than Hollywood - Indian food popular in many areas of the world
290
what are India's demographic strengths?
- Largest population in the world - Large English speaking population
291
what are Brazil's political weaknesses?
- Significant corruption throughout Brazil - Politically unstable - far right Bolsonaro has recently been voted out and previously impeached president re-elected
292
what are Brazil's economic strengths?
- Produces over 50% of South America's GDP - Large amounts of natural resources
293
what is Brazils's military weakness?
- Limited role in international conflicts
294
what is Brazils's military strength?
- Largest military force in South America
295
what is Brazils's demographic strength?
- Seventh most populated country in the world
296
what is Brazils's demographic weakness?
- Population distribution is very uneven - most people live by the coast
297
what are Brazils's cultural strengths?
- Football team - World Cup winners five times - Rio Carnival
298
what are Russias economic weaknesses?
- Decreasing influence over global financial decision making - Lack of investment by TNCs and FDIs - Significant levels of inequality
299
what is Russia's economic strength?
9th largest GDP in the world
300
what are Russias military strengths?
Fifth largest military force in the world a nuclear power
301
what are Russias military weaknesses?
Wide scale corruption Ageing weapons and vehicles
302
describe the 5 stages of the modernisation theory
Stage 1: Traditional society: economy based on bartering, subsidence farming and little investment Stage 2: Pre-conditions for take off (transitional stage): surpluses are traded through improved infrastructure and shift to manufacturing Stage 3: Take off: industrial and regional growth, investment and political change Stage 4: Drive to maturity: growth is supported through technological innovation, diversification and investment Stage 5 - High mass consumption: consumer orientated society, durable goods production, dominant service sector, higher disposable incomes
303
what are the risks associated with a multi-polar world?
- Lack of dominant power can lead to increased risk of conflict - Less stable
304
what is the risk associated with a uni-polar world?
Hard to maintain power
305
what are the risks associated with a bi-polar world?
- Stand offs between opposing powers can occur such as Cuban Missile Crisis - Situation is stable but can escalate
306
what are the two main arguments (for and against) the WTO?
- Powerful TNCs support the WTO for its positive impact on international economic growth - Others see it as increasing the wealth gap and hurting local workers and communities
307
how many of the Top Ten TNCs by Revenue in 2022 were owned by the USA and china?
4 each
308
how many stores does Walmart has worldwide? how many people does it directly employ?
10,500 stores around the world and directly employs 2.3 million people
309
what % of China's energy is produced using coal?
57%
310
what % of groundwater in China is unfit for human consumption?
80%
311
what % of the world's land does the UN estimate is degraded? why is this significant?
40% - Growing food becomes more difficult as soils become infertile, leading to food shortages and reducing food production by up to 12% by 2050
312
how has china showed willingness to act?
China’s NDC pledge (2016): - Peak CO₂ emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
313
how has Russia showed willingness to act?
Russia’s Paris Agreement pledge - Reduce emissions to 70% of 1990 levels by 2030.
314
what are the EUs climate targets?
Net Zero by 2050 and a 55% emissions reduction by 2030 from 1990 levels.
315
what are the USAs current climate targets?
50–52% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030.
316
what is the Projected increase in global energy demand by 2050?
1.8 times greater than today.
317
what is the Predicted size of the global middle class by 2030?
5.3 billion
318
which Region is responsible for almost 90% of middle‑class growth?
asia
319
what Is the Predicted rise in middle‑class spending (2017–2030)?
From $37 trillion to $64 trillion.
320
what are the Main economic challenges faced by the USA and EU?
Debt, economic restructuring, unemployment, and social costs
321
What does sub‑prime lending refer to?
Banks giving loans to borrowers with poor credit histories
322
what were the UK and US national debt levels in 2021?
UK: £2.4 trillion; USA: $30 trillion
323
what are the Consequences of rising national debt?
Reduced public spending, unemployment, lower demand, political instability
324
what are the social impacts of deindustrialisation?
Mental health issues, lower quality of life, migration, crime
325
what is the Predicted cost of NASA’s Artemis programme to 2025?
$93 billion
326
what are the key criticism of high military spending?
Money could be better used for poverty reduction, infrastructure, or healthcare
327
Why might China struggle to challenge US hegemony?
Weaker political and cultural influence
GEOGRAPHY
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