Balancing American power. (c2014)

Abstract

Global political, economic and security dynamics are in flux. The purported decline of America, along with the ascension of Russia and China – among other emerging economies – is altering the rules of the international system. The theme of American decline and the rise of China and Russia as possible threats to American hegemony is a topic laden with much heated debates. America’s tendency to overstretch its military and economic expansion beyond its national borders, along with the rise of dynamic and competitive economies across the world, undermined the country’s global stature and unleashed a global struggle for power with the likes of China and Russia. These countries are balancing against US hegemony both regionally and internationally. This thesis examines the theme of American decline and the factors affecting this decline. It assesses the rise of China and Russia as potential competitors that can balance against American hegemony within the framework of their mutual interests and alliances.