ABSTRACT

In an imaginative and interesting way, Kwang Ho Chun seeks to capture the dynamics of the changing international system and the prospects for a change in the international distribution of power. The idea that new superpowers could rise and that some of the BRICs (Brazil, Russia, India and China) could be such superpowers, is particularly intriguing and the main idea explored in this study. In line with neo-realist approaches, this book argues that in a unipolar world competitors will rise to challenge the global hegemon. As the power profiles of the BRICs rise and they gain greater control of geo-global politics, they are likely to attain significant regional dominance among other regional powers although their underdeveloped tradition of hard power and internal challenges could prevent them from gaining superpower status. This book captures the dynamics of the changing international system and the prospects for a change in the international distribution of power.

part |31 pages

Background

chapter |12 pages

Introduction

chapter |17 pages

The Concept of Superpower

part |111 pages

The BRICs: Political Relations, Foreign Policy and Military Power

chapter |6 pages

Introduction to Part II

chapter |23 pages

Brazil

chapter |28 pages

Russia

chapter |16 pages

India

chapter |22 pages

China

chapter |3 pages

Summary of Part II

part |60 pages

Projecting the Future: The BRICs Factor and Future International Power Relations

part |8 pages

Conclusions

chapter |6 pages

Conclusions