Joseph Nye's Legacy in IR

Overview

This lecture discusses Joseph Nye’s legacy in international relations, focusing on his concepts of soft power and interdependence, critiques of Trump-era U.S. foreign policy, and the challenges facing the liberal international order.

Joseph Nye’s Career and Legacy

• Joseph Nye was a key scholar in international relations and coined the term "soft power."
• He served in significant government roles and as dean of Harvard Kennedy School.
• Nye co-authored "Power and Interdependence" with Robert Keohane, influencing modern views on global politics.

Hard Power vs. Soft Power

• Hard power involves using threats and rewards (military, economic) to influence others.
• Trump’s approach prioritizes hard power and sees international relations as zero-sum.
• Nye argued that soft power—attraction and cultural appeal—is a critical, cost-effective source of influence.
• Ignoring soft power undermines long-term U.S. strength and alliances.

The Role of Interdependence

• Interdependence means countries are mutually reliant, which constrains all involved.
• Asymmetrical interdependence benefits the less dependent state, granting leverage.
• The U.S.-China relationship illustrates mutual dependency ("mutual hostage" situation) rather than one-sided dominance.
• Weaponizing interdependence (e.g., sanctions, financial controls) can erode long-term U.S. advantages as others seek alternatives.

The Liberal International Order and Its Challenges

• The U.S. has led a liberal order since WWII, benefiting many countries but now faces skepticism and erosion.
• Trump’s retreat from promoting liberal democratic values weakens American soft power and global influence.
• Populism and economic exclusion have fueled criticism of the liberal order; global elites often designed systems for their own benefit.

Liberal Order, Populism, and Policy Responses

• Failure to consider the effects of globalization on ordinary people contributed to the rise of populism.
• Biden administration attempted to address regional inequalities, but polarization and slow impact limited results.

After Hegemony and Collective Action

• Keohane’s "After Hegemony" argues institutions can outlast single power dominance if similar-oriented states cooperate.
• European defense spending is increasing as they can no longer rely solely on U.S. protection.

Technology, AI, and Future Challenges

• Advances in technology and AI may fundamentally alter interdependence and power dynamics in global politics.
• Both Nye and Keohane emphasized the need for future scholars to address these emerging issues.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Hard Power — Coercive power using military or economic means.
• Soft Power — The ability to attract and co-opt rather than coerce.
• Interdependence — Mutual reliance between states that constrains their choices.
• Asymmetrical Interdependence — When one party is less dependent and thus holds more leverage.
• Weaponized Interdependence — Using global networks and dependencies as tools of coercion.
• Liberal International Order — A system of international rules and institutions based on liberal democracy and open markets.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Read "The End of the Long American Century" by Keohane and Nye for detailed arguments.
• Review "Power and Interdependence" and "After Hegemony" for foundational theories.
• Explore current debates on the future of the liberal order and the impact of technology on international relations.