Document Type
Article
Disciplines
International Law
Abstract
Specialists in international relations developed the idea of hegemonic leadership several decades ago,' but today there is little consensus about the theories employing this concept. This is curious because the United States currently wields unparalleled power in the international arena, at least militarily. If there was ever a time in modern history that a hegemonic power existed, it is now. Within political science, however, we see a deep split in the interpretations of the international system. Security specialists talk of unipolarity and its consequences, while political economists have largely abandoned the notion of hegemonic leadership. Below, I suggest several reasons why this schism has arisen, the costs associated with this bifurcation, and some ways to breathe new life into the concept. As a consequence, I also identify several lines to pursue in future research. Along the way, I pinpoint several reasons why experts in international law should continue to discuss hegemonic leadership.
Recommended Citation
Brawley, Mark R., "Hegemonic Leadership: Is the Concept Still Useful?" (2004). Connecticut Journal of International Law. 414.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/cjil/414
Accessibility Requirements
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