Complex Interdependence in the World Today
Joseph Nye raises an interesting theory of modern international relations through his concept of complex interdependence. Nye describes interdependence in an analytical sense, as "situations in which actors or events in different parts of a system affect each other." (Nye 179) Nye continues his definition of interdependence by stating that the results are often varied and although the potential for benefits exist, the potential for tragedy exists as well. Despite this potential for varying results Nye also notes that it is very difficult and very costly for a country to try and cut itself off from the world, such as Myanmar or Albania did. According to Nye interdependence can be divided into four separate dimensions, which are its sources, benefits, costs, and symmetry. These dimensions can originate in both the physical and social aspects of society. The idea of economic interdependence is an idea that cannot be disputed as a reality in this modern world. Economic interdependence is a concept that gained great popularity prior to World War I, and then again very slowly after America's isolationist period post-World War II. According to Nye, "economic interdependence invo
The theory of complex interdependence at its best creates an atmosphere of cooperation instead of competition. This cooperation is embodied in the form of international organizations and the policies those organizations pursue. Early in the twentieth century the idea of international organizations took root, with England acting as a global economic leader prior to WWI, and the United States assuming that role, somewhat reluctantly after The Great Depression. The concern over The Great Depression however, was the motivation for America stepping up to the role as leader of the global economy, by aiding in the establishment of multiple international organizations to strengthen and support the global economy. The initial organizations were the IMF, GATT, which later became the WTO, and the OECD. Each of these organizations were created to allow the rapid global growth of private transactions on an international basis. The results of these organizations have led to a much higher degree of economic interdependence, which can be epitomized by the creation of a single monetary unit in 1999 by the European Union. The theory of complex interdependence is vastly different than that of realism and operates under an entirely different set of assumptions. Assumptions such as military power and security are not the only goals of individual nations, or that more than just those nations may influence or shape the international arena. Complex interdependence rejects the realist notion of an anarchic international system, and instead works towards a system of cooperative security, instead of just a balance in power. However, in all reality elements of both realism and complex interdependence exist in our modern world. Nye even argues that the two compose a spectrum, a spectrum in which events and relationships vary in level of interdependence and realism. In fact the goals for some nations are exactly as realism states, to achieve military security and to ensure that security. Nevertheless as those countries are able to achieve that desired security, they will slowly transform and develop ! As with any decision or any theory, there are certain benefits and certain costs associated with it; economic interdependence is no different in this respect. However, the benefits created by complex interdependence, with economic interdependence as a main aspect has proven more often than not to be beneficial for all parties involved. In this modern day and age, technology is expanding at such a rate, that the distance between countries is seemingly getting smaller and smaller, not only in the respect of travel for people, but also of information. Economic interdependence in the form of globalizations allows this technology to expand and benefit as many people as possible, or at least as many people who choose to accept it. lves policy choices about values and costs." (180) These policy choices are based most often on t
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Approximate Word count = 1978
Approximate Pages = 8 (250 words per page double spaced)
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