The Us/allies and the Emerging Powers: A Comparative Study of National Capabilities
Keywords:
Power, National Capabilities, US/Allies, Emerging Powers, National Currency.Abstract
The study comparatively analyzed the capabilities of the US/Allies and the Emerging Powers with the aim of identifying the most advantageous group and the variable that guarantees long lasting influence among nations. It adopted the Realist theory as framework and employed the content analysis design based on secondary data obtained by unobtrusive means and analyzed by descriptive and simple percentage statistical tables and chart for qualitative and quantitative data. The study uncovered that the use of traditional elements of states power as measuring instrument reified military capabilities above all other indices; failed to capture the place of national currencies in the determination of states influence. The study argues that the indices of states power are relative, as such none should claim absolution and if any should assume absolution, the finance or wealth of the nation stands a better chance since it interact on a more consistent basis with all other indices of national power to influence. The study concludes that though the US/Allies still maintain an edge over the Emerging Powers in military and technological innovation, the alliance of the most populous countries with enough financial clout is a big challenge. The study recommends that national currency be added as an index of states power; the US/Allies should redirect their investment on defense to the development of the least developed areas of the earth to garner more influence; the Emerging Powers should devout their financial clout towards economic development rather than pursue parity in military terms with the US/Allies to ensure a stable global society devoid of arm race and its attendant consequences.
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