ABSTRACT
In the last chapter relationships between states were described as being essentially bargaining relationships, in the sense that almost all issues contain elements of common interest as well as elements of conflict. In the great majority of cases, however, the elements of conflict either are, or are thought to be, larger than the elements of common interest. In these cases the attainment of objectives will be seen as primarily requiring the exercise of power, of endeavouring to cause the other party or parties, that is to say, to do something (or not to do something) which otherwise they would (or would not) have chosen to do. The methods used may be those of diplomacy (which may be buttressed by the offer or granting of rewards or the removal of penalties, and by the threat of punishments; and for which the ground may be prepared by propaganda, by economic measures, by subversion, or by force); or these other methods – propaganda, economic reward or deprivation, subversion, and force – may be used independently of specific diplomatic activity, and indeed may additionally be employed by agents or groups other than those formally charged with the conduct of relations between states.
