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Grand Strategies: Literature, Statecraft, and World Order

Corey Green

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Grand strategies are long-term plans that seek to shape the international system in a way that is favorable to a particular state or group of states. They are typically developed by statesmen and diplomats, and they often involve a combination of military, economic, and diplomatic measures.}

Grand Strategies: Literature, Statecraft, and World Order

by Charles Hill

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The study of grand strategies has a long and rich history. In ancient Greece, Thucydides wrote about the Peloponnesian War, which he saw as a result of the clash between Athens and Sparta's grand strategies. In the 16th century, Niccolò Machiavelli wrote The Prince, which offered advice to rulers on how to acquire and maintain power. In the 19th century, Alfred Thayer Mahan wrote The Influence of Sea Power upon History, which argued that sea power was essential for global dominance.}

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the study of grand strategies. This is due in part to the rise of new global powers, such as China and India, and the increasing complexity of the international system.}

There are a number of different schools of thought on grand strategy. Some scholars argue that grand strategies should be based on a clear understanding of the international system and the distribution of power. Others argue that grand strategies should be based on a state's national interests and values. Still others argue that grand strategies should be based on a combination of both of these factors.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to grand strategy. The best approach will vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. However, there are some general principles that can be applied to the development of any grand strategy.

First, grand strategies should be based on a clear understanding of the international system and the distribution of power. This includes an understanding of the major states, their interests, and their capabilities. It also includes an understanding of the global economy and the major trends that are shaping it.}

Second, grand strategies should be based on a state's national interests and values. These interests and values should be defined broadly, and they should include both economic and security concerns. They should also reflect the state's long-term goals and aspirations.}

Third, grand strategies should be based on a combination of both hard and soft power. Hard power refers to military and economic power, while soft power refers to cultural and diplomatic power. A successful grand strategy will typically involve a combination of both types of power.}

Finally, grand strategies should be flexible and adaptable. The international system is constantly changing, and so must grand strategies. States must be prepared to adjust their grand strategies in order to meet new challenges and opportunities.

The study of grand strategies is essential for understanding the international system and the role that states play in it. By understanding the different schools of thought on grand strategy and the general principles that can be applied to the development of any grand strategy, we can better understand the choices that states make and the consequences of those choices.}

Grand strategies are an important tool for states to use to shape the international system in a way that is favorable to their interests. By understanding the different schools of thought on grand strategy and the general principles that can be applied to the development of any grand strategy, we can better understand the choices that states make and the consequences of those choices.}

Grand Strategies: Literature, Statecraft, and World Order

by Charles Hill

4.3 out of 5