session 11 ,dimensions to "balance of power"

 E. Haas, "The Balance of Power: Prescription, Concept, or Propaganda?, basically tries to think over the balance of power beyond the traditional meaning of balance of power which involves two states with more or less equal powers contesting in international arena to preserve their interest. The meaning of balance of power is very subjective and diverse. The word balance of power can either be used in the context of peace after the world war II or in the context of warfare after the demise of soviet union in 1990's. If we consider the meaning of balance of power in the context of first phase, we see it more from the positive lens which is "political equilibrium" and if we see for the second phase, we ponder over it with the lens of "hegemony"

I context of Europe, some theorist view  balance differently from others. They believe that in order to maintain peace and order in Europe, there should be an equilibrium in the balance of power between the scales(blocks) such that one block could not over-raw the other. For that, they proposed that there needs to be sufficiently powerful small states, which could act as  (balancer) on either side. This will produce a situation where it would be of no interest for any block to inflict an attack or change the balance. On the other hand theorist who view balance as hegemony consider balance as a margin of power which is always in favour one state. balance can here be considered as not the level of power but an increased margin of power relative to the other state. Some states maintain their objectives and consider the balance of power that way. The perfect example that fits to this explanation is India. India though all powerful than Pakistan and capable of inflicting a nuclear attack at china if being attacked;  covers the threat on both sides its of borders be it western and northern; yet India wants to maintain a margin of power in South Asia countering China and Pakistan both at same time to preserve their own interests. in theories this type of attitude by any state is called as " hegemonic"

Thus, we can conclude that there is nothing which could justify balance of power as just one perspective. There are multiple dimensions to 'balance of power" and therefore different theorist as per their intentions and as a tool to justify their stance , employ their own understanding of balance of power,
                                                                                                                              ~UZAIR MUJEEB