Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

The ability of an actor to influence the priorities and topics addressed in international forums or negotiations.

A governing system characterized by concentrated power, limited political freedoms, and minimal political pluralism.

A situation where no single state or coalition dominates others, maintaining stability through power equilibrium.

A concept developed by Michel Foucault describing the governance of populations through the regulation of life processes and bodies.

A concept describing how modern states regulate populations through techniques of power focused on bodies and life processes.

Michel Foucault described governmentality as the techniques and strategies by which governments shape citizens' behavior and manage populations.

The idea that international order is more likely to be maintained when a single dominant power enforces rules and norms.

Harold Lasswell described power elites as small groups controlling major decisions in society, shaping political and economic outcomes.

The concept of luck or chance in political power, which rulers must skillfully manage alongside virtù (personal ability) to maintain authority.

The quality of boldness, pragmatism, and strategic skill that Machiavelli argued rulers must possess to maintain power and order.

A political doctrine emphasizing pragmatic, sometimes amoral strategies for acquiring and maintaining power, often associated with cunning and duplicity.

A theory in international relations that emphasizes states seek to maximize their power and dominance to ensure security.

Foucault's concept describing modern disciplinary societies' use of surveillance to control behavior.

An international relations theory emphasizing state self-interest, power, and survival over ideology or ethics.

An intellectual framework analyzing the cultural legacy and power dynamics resulting from colonialism.

Power transition theory explains conflicts as arising when a rising power threatens to surpass the dominant hegemon, leading to potential war.

A system of politics based on practical objectives and power considerations rather than ideological notions or moralistic premises.

Regions where a powerful state exerts predominant political, economic, or military control without formal authority.

The ability of any of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to reject a substantive draft resolution, preventing its adoption.