Power for Peace or War?

The Nature of Power and the Path to Peace

Power is a concept that has shaped the course of human history. In the realm of international relations, it is often seen as the ability to influence the behavior of others. This idea has led to the development of various theories, with realism being one of the most prominent. According to this theory, states seek power to ensure their security and protect their interests. However, the reality is far more complex.

Realism, while widely accepted, has not delivered the peace and stability it promises. Instead, it has often led to conflict, as powerful states use their dominance to impose their will on weaker ones. This dynamic has been evident throughout history, with great powers expanding their influence through aggressive means, often at the expense of smaller nations.

Israel’s Expansionist Agenda

One example of this pattern is Israel's ongoing efforts to expand its territory. Since its establishment in 1948, Israel has pursued what is known as the "greater Israel" agenda, which involves acquiring land from neighboring states. This process has involved the use of force and has resulted in significant loss of life, including among non-combatants such as women and children. The global community, including international organizations, has largely turned a blind eye to these actions, allowing the situation in Gaza to deteriorate into a humanitarian crisis.

Gaza has been reduced to ruins, with no functioning schools or hospitals. While some infrastructure may be rebuilt over time, the damage done to an entire generation of children is irreversible. This raises important questions about the role of power in international relations and whether it is used for peace or war.

War as a Policy Option

The philosophical foundations of power and conflict can be traced back to two distinct traditions. On one hand, Western thought, influenced by figures like Machiavelli, sees war as a legitimate tool of statecraft. This perspective suggests that states may need to engage in conflict to achieve their goals, especially when dealing with unequal military powers (UMP).

On the other hand, Chinese philosophy, particularly as articulated by Sun Tzu, emphasizes winning without fighting. This approach focuses on strategy, diplomacy, and the avoidance of direct confrontation. These differing philosophies have shaped the way different civilizations have approached power and conflict throughout history.

The Legacy of Western Colonialism

The influence of Western powers in global affairs has been long-standing. Their historical approach has involved expansion, colonization, and control over weaker nations. This has typically involved taking resources, using military force, and subjugating local populations. Although the methods have evolved over time, the underlying goal remains the same: to maintain dominance and secure strategic interests.

In modern times, this has taken the form of proxy wars and economic influence rather than direct colonial rule. However, the effects are similar, with powerful states continuing to shape the political and economic landscapes of smaller countries.

China’s Alternative Approach

China offers a different model of power projection. Rather than relying on military force or direct control, China has focused on building relationships through economic investment and infrastructure development. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a prime example of this approach, aiming to connect Asia, Africa, and Europe through large-scale infrastructure projects.

These projects include roads, railways, bridges, ports, airports, and energy systems. Unlike traditional colonial powers, China does not seek to install proxies or control regimes. Instead, it invests in public-oriented projects that benefit the local population. This has made China an attractive partner for many developing countries, particularly in Africa, where the need for infrastructure is urgent.

A New Vision for International Relations

The power struggle between states is a defining feature of the international system, according to realist theory. However, China's approach suggests that power can be acquired and maintained without resorting to war. By focusing on mutual benefit and cooperation, China has demonstrated an alternative path that prioritizes stability and development over conflict.

This shift in strategy has significant implications for the future of international relations. As more countries look to China for guidance, the balance of power may begin to change, leading to a more equitable and peaceful global order.