Realist Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Realist Theory - Essay Example The theory infers that the system is continually changing to create adjustments to nations such that new systems are created or older are being restored. Therefore, the balance of power theory involves a specific power distribution between states of a system such that no single nation has too much or less of the other . This paper analyses this context and provides a historic case outlay on the application of this theory, the implications of the test results for the case and identifies if the theory is applicable to the case (Marshall, 1970). Over the years, the term balance of power has been used in different areas of history, politics and science each bringing foreword a different meaning from the other. This is due to the difference in the meanings that are portrayed by various states on the term power. To some, power means the use of political force, the superiority of economy or diplomatic coercion to create a desirable outcome by a state. To others, power refers to the ability of a state to impose its will on another despite the resistance raised while others view this concept as the ability of a state to influence the behavior of one or more states through policy implementation (Stanley & Fidler, 1991). The paper seeks to compare and contrast two segments on balance of power relating to the classical and the modern era of political thought which forms the major variable. The balance of power theory is used to illustrate different cases with the major being the Persian Gulf War . Here, the U.S is unwilling to destroy and entirely dismember Iraq due to the balance of power concept which prevented the interruption of the powers of the Middle East. The two concepts raised in the theory is effective in understanding the conduct of international relations and preservation of the international nations system. My conclusion about the performance of the theory here is that it is effective in analyzing the case and that it gives a clear basis on relations amongst states. The theory has a great performance in the case as it infers the effectiveness of balancing power and how this theory is applied in solving international disputes. The theory independent variables relate to issues that constitute a state such as power, balance and sovereignty that enables a state to be independent while the dependent variables are the states and the relations based on the theories. Others may relate to the classical and modern views of politics which are harmonized by the realism concept. The link among the two variables are that they both belong with the realism school of thought. In the classical view, states are created to prevent war. It claims that the society despite the corruption shelters men from harm but only if it is established and enforced in law (Stanley & Fidler, 1991). A democratic government established though the power of the people are perceived to be legitimate . Based on this concept, the function of the government is to implement the law s formulated, promote patriotism through education and promote wealth distribution to enhance cohesion (Micheal, 2000). The classical concept maintains that the balance of power prevents nations from breaking apart . The balance ensures that no particular state or an alliance of nations is allowed by unwritten laws to obtain more power, such that it overwhelms the rest and that this balance is independent. The modern era of

China increasing presence in sub-saharan africa Dissertation

China increasing presence in sub-saharan africa - Dissertation Example China despite having high population (over 1 billion people) compared to numerous states globally, the state continues to exhibit a remarkable economic improvement each year (Bloomberg 2010). This is due to its insistence on economic investment not only inside the state but also globally whereby China attains incomparable benefits in return. Some of these benefits/returns to the China embrace available market for their exports, raw materials, imports and even oil. The latter commodity (oil) is almost getting exhausted in the states which China used to rely on besides the US developing political interests in these regions with the intention of dominating the states (Middle East states), hence yielding to stiff competition. Relationship between China and Sub Saharan African region that has yielded to current strong involvement between the two sides is mutually beneficial. This implies the involved parties regardless of their varying economic grounds, maximally benefit from each though due to China’s high demand for raw materials it ended up initiating the move. This is evident from the China’s numerous economic activities evident in SSA region contrary to those of the western states that had initially and up to date invested in Africa (Kaplinsky, McCormick, and Morris 2007). Hence, exhibiting China is out to compete with its rivals (Europe and US) though the tactic is not political as witnessed with US seeming to dominate the other region. China in its quest to attain and ensure cordial relationship with SSA region, embarked on heavy investing that will not only guarantee present benefits but also the future (Kaplinsky, McCormick, and Morris 2007). Hence, being prudent in their actions especially in shunning the areas that have for long maintained a high reputation of rich oil reserves, though currently are undergoing depletion (Broadman 2007). This has prompted China to focus on developing SSA region via establishing and supporting varied key proje cts. Most of these projects encompass those, which for long superpower states (west and US) evaded or heightened their bids especially when negotiating about terms once they finance them. Hence, prompting China to use this opportunity to offer interest-free loans meant for varied states’ projects in this region to back and fund their projects. For instance, this is evident in Libreville where China gave $2 billion and an additional of $6 million loan in return for timber (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and PRC.2000). This is among numerous interventions and incidences regarding trade, which China has involved itself by concentrating on ensuring cordial relationship with SSA region besides constant flow of raw materials for their home industries. The inception of china’s interest in SSA region started with the tour of President Hu Jintao who ended up entering into various agreements with the key SSA states, for instance, Algerian and Gabon regimes. His core intention enco mpassed seeking constant suppliers of oil for his states. Consequently, this prompted china to finanncing oil exploration projects after signing an agreement with Omar Bongo in Lbreville (China Monitor 2006). In addition, Sinopec and Total-Gabon company made an agreement where the latter was to export 1Millions tons of oil to china (China Monitor 2006). This prompted China to give a loan of 420 Million euro meant to develop Zarzaitine oil field, which was after signing agreement in 2002 (China Monitor 20