---
title: "Keohane & Nye: International Relations Theorists"
description: "Keohane and Nye are American theorists known for 'complex interdependence,' challenging realism in international relations. Key for Model UN and policy studies."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/keohane-nye"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Keohane and Nye are American international-relations theorists whose concept of "complex interdependence" challenged realism by stressing multiple channels, absent hierarchy of issues, and the declining utility of mil…
- What is complex interdependence according to Keohane and Nye?
- Who coined the term 'soft power' and what does it mean?
- How does Keohane's regime theory explain cooperation under anarchy?
- How do Keohane and Nye differ from realists?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 2004 Joseph Nye, in \*Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics\*, argued that the United States' post-Iraq legitimacy crisis demonstrated the limits of hard military power and the strategic value of attraction.

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