Heterarchy in World Politics

Heterarchy in World Politics challenges the traditional view of international relations and world politics, suggesting that world politics is characterized by the coexistence and conflict of differently structured micro- and meso quasi-hierarchies. This book explores how globalization and fragmentation have led to the increasing autonomy and special interest capture of heterarchical institutions and processes, decreasing the capacity of macro-states to control domestic and transnational political/economic processes. It will interest students, scholars, and researchers in international relations theory, world politics, security studies, war studies, peace studies, global governance studies, political science, political economy, political power studies, and the social sciences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Heterarchy in World Politics presents a profound challenge to the traditional understanding of international relations and global politics. For centuries, the dominant paradigm in International Relations (IR) theory has posited that world politics revolves around a system of states, with each state functioning as a sovereign entity. However, this assumption has come under increasing scrutiny in the 21st century, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected and complex.

In the contemporary world, world politics is characterized by heterarchy, which refers to the coexistence and conflict between differently structured micro- and meso quasi-hierarchies. These hierarchies transcend borders, extending into economic-financial sectors and social groupings. This shift towards heterarchy represents a paradigm shift away from the traditional competing paradigms of realism, liberalism, and constructivism in IR theory.

This book explores how the dialectic of globalization and fragmentation has led states and the interstate system towards heterarchy since the mid-20th century. The authors argue that heterarchical institutions and processes are characterized by increasing autonomy and the capture of special interests. These institutions operate within multi-nodal competing frameworks, with overlapping jurisdictions, empowering strategically situated agents, particularly those with substantial autonomous resources, such as economic resources.

The result of this process is a decreasing capacity of macro-states to control both domestic and transnational political/economic processes. Heterarchy creates a complex web of interdependencies and power dynamics, where smaller entities can exert significant influence over larger ones. This has implications for global governance, security, and economic stability.

This book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and researchers of international relations theory. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the emerging trends in world politics and offers insights into the complex dynamics of power and governance in the globalized era. The book will also have significant appeal to policymakers and practitioners seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by the evolving global landscape.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 233 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032403410