Kenneth Waltz defines the structure as how units are
positioned in relation to one another. He also distinguishes between domestic and
international politics as domestic politics being hierarchically ordered and
the international arena being anarchically ordered. However, even in the
international system there is some degree of hierarchy that prevails. The
division of states amongst the first, second and third world categories is
indicative of some kind of hierarchy. The smaller and weaker nations are mostly
economically subordinate to geographically larger and economically wealthier
states. For instance, Pakistan is in many ways subordinate to USA. This is
simply because Pakistan is a third world country dependent on first world
countries for support. Furthermore, in the UN, the concept of the Big Five and
their veto abilities shows that there is order and ranking. Also, according to
Waltz, self help is an essential mode of action in an anarchic order. However,
majority states in the world today act with consent, discussion and advice from
other states. They form alliances and pacts to ensure safety in the event of an
attack by a third party. Self-help is a rare phenomenon to find, which is why
it is questionable to say that the international system is anarchic.
Lastly, in chapter 6, Waltz says, ‘among states, state of
nature is a state of war’. This is applicable to the scenario between India and
Pakistan ever since independence. Both the countries must constantly rely on
their military only because there is a constant threat of hostility between
them.
I agree with Maryam that there are different hierarchies in International politics as well and the example of Pakistan and USA is perfect to illustrate the different hierarchies present in the international arena. Although there can be another side to this as well that countries seeking help from each other doesn't denote the fact they are on a higher or a lower level of hierarchy from the other.
ReplyDeleteMost of the alliances that state formulate are strategized and may not define the hierarchical nature of the international political system.
ReplyDeleteAh but states form alliances based on the premise of self-help. After all, states are in a system where often times they will need the support of others, hence their move towards alliances and balancing in order to achieve security.
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