The Pursuit of Dominance: 2000 Years of Superpower Grand Strategy

The most powerful actor in the international system, the United States, is facing a set of challenges that might lead to its decline as this century unfolds. In The Pursuit of Dominance, Christopher J. Fettweis examines the grand strategy of previous superpowers to see how they maintained or failed to maintain their status. He looks at how they defined their interests, the grand strategies they followed to maintain superiority over their rivals, and how the practice of that strategy worked. The book highlights what current US strategists can learn from the experience of earlier superpowers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The United States, as the most powerful actor in the international system, faces a set of challenges that could lead to its decline as the 21st century unfolds. In his book, "The Pursuit of Dominance," Christopher J. Fettweis examines the grand strategy of previous superpowers to see how they maintained or failed to maintain their status.

Over the course of six cases, from Ancient Rome to the British Empire, Fettweis seeks guidance from the past for present US policymakers. Unlike the focus on these powers' rise or how they ruled, Fettweis emphasizes how they sought to maintain their power.

One paramount lesson emerges from these cases: dominant powers usually survive even the most incompetent leaders. Fettweis is particularly interested in how these superpowers defined their interests, the grand strategies they followed to maintain superiority over their rivals, and how the practice of that strategy worked.

"The Pursuit of Dominance" is a sweeping history of grand strategy that spans the past 2,000 years. It highlights what, if anything, current US strategists can learn from the experience of earlier superpowers. By examining the strategies employed by these historical powers, Fettweis provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the United States in the global arena.

The book explores the various factors that contributed to the dominance of these superpowers, including military strength, economic resources, political influence, and cultural values. It also examines the strategies these powers used to maintain their dominance, such as expansionism, diplomacy, and coercion.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of defining and pursuing clear interests. Dominant powers need to have a clear understanding of their goals and objectives, and they need to be willing to take risks and make sacrifices to achieve them. This requires a strong sense of purpose and a willingness to be proactive in shaping the international system.

Another important theme is the importance of grand strategy in maintaining dominance. Grand strategy involves developing a long-term vision and a set of policies and actions that are consistent with that vision. It requires a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and to be flexible in responding to challenges and opportunities.

Fettweis also examines the challenges that dominant powers face in maintaining their status. These challenges include the rise of new powers, the emergence of regional conflicts, and the changing nature of the international system. Dominant powers need to be able to adapt to these challenges and to find new ways to maintain their dominance.

In conclusion, "The Pursuit of Dominance" is a valuable contribution to the study of grand strategy and international relations. By examining the strategies of previous superpowers, Fettweis provides insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the United States in the global arena. The book emphasizes the importance of defining and pursuing clear interests, developing a long-term vision, and being flexible in responding to changing circumstances. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of the international system and the role of the United States in shaping it.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197646649