The Theory Of Hegemonic Stability - 1692 Words

Hegemony demands power. The theory of hegemonic stability in our international system requires a single, predominant state to enforce the rules of the system. A hegemonic state is indeed that; the most powerful state. In order to achieve this authority as a hegemon in the international system there are key attributes a state must possess in order to secure a stable position through competitive capability. The presence of a hegemon is a necessary condition for regime formation. Liberal regime theory states this regime puts forth a set of expectations for the international community and enforces this element. There are several ways a hegemon establishes authority and enforces their rules. Militarily, economically, and technologically.†¦show more content†¦A final key point a hegemonic regime must possess in combination with these elements in order to be successful, is an ability and willingness to lead. They must commit to the system, maintain the ability to enforce the rules of the system, and hold a zeal to force stability for what they perceive as mutually beneficial for the international system as a whole. Currently, the U.S. has established dominance in these factors, however, there is an ebb and flow with power in the international system and there are challenges to the lead power. China is the worlds most important rising power by many measures, and many of those measures indicate that China is indeed a leading power, second to the U.S. China’s Economy Economically, China possesses a GDP second to that of the U.S. and their economy has had the highest growth rate in the world in the last two decades. However, this growth in GDP has to be opened up and looked at underneath the surface. David Shambaugh references in his book China Goes Global, that â€Å"its [China’s] global position is not as strong as it seems. . .its exports are still dominated by generally low-end consumer products† (Shambaugh 157). China’s presence in the international trading market is that of consumer goods. Nearly all of China’s exports are manufactured consumer goods and China’s â€Å"knowledge-intensive industries still lag† (Shambaugh 158). China’s economic power is that of a