Sandeep Khakase, Nayan Varma & Madhul Tungare, Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Abstract
The authoritarianism and power vacuum displayed by a hegemon is almost tantalising but could easily be replaced by a negative connotation. The USA finds itself in one such predicament, a hegemony: a dominant position, exhibiting powerful preponderant influence and having the capability of sheer supremacy and leadership. In a common sensical manner, hegemony is a relational and transformative concept, evolving at a continuous pace, leaving a chaotic situation behind, on whether it will ascend further, or whether it will succeed to multipolarity or unipolarity, or whether there will be a genesis of anarchy or lastly cede into becoming an idealistic picture-perfect globe wherein all dominions are at par with the backbone of equality strengthening the relationships between them. A hegemon is said to establish rules for governance of the international system by ensuring a stability in global order and on the downside, it is reputed to formulate a hierarchy dividing countries into powerful and weak, creating disharmony. USA’s hegemonic behaviour is conceptualised and witnessed in many facets, be it Global Politics, or exuding from a numero uno position demonstrating the will to mitigate global terrorism, or its incessant involvement/interference with international organisations like the WTO, WHO and ICC. Ironically it is clearly witnessed that USA has been pivotal in the establishment and contributions to these organisations but currently is either aiding in its deterioration or bringing them down deliberately. Thus, since it is established that USA is a hegemon, its ambit of structural power is dealt with along with a juxtaposition being that, if USA is paralysed, which power replaces it? The concluding statement discusses the system of hegemony by the USA and its benefits and malevolent effects on the world and its peer countries.
Keywords: Effects of Hegemony, Global Order, Hegemony, International Organisations, United States of America
