Structural & Relational Power (DP IB Global Politics): Revision Note
Structural power
Structural power is the ability of a state or actor to shape the rules, systems or institutions that influence how others behave in international politics
It is not easy to see, but it establishes norms and expectations without the overt use of force
Structural frameworks of how things should be done are put into place by powerful institutions and become norms
Political theorist Susan Strange examined power as a component of established institutions concerned with
Security (e.g. the IGO NATO)
Production (e.g. Apple)
Finance (e.g. Bank of China)
Knowledge (Oxford University)
Case Study
The global role of the US Dollar
The US dollar is the most widely used currency in the world
Many countries use it for international trade, loans and financial reserves
Impact
Because of this, countries often need to follow the rules and expectations of the global financial system
This is strongly influenced by the United States and organisations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank
Outcome
This shows structural power
The United States does not always need to force other countries to follow its ideas
Instead, the global financial system creates norms about how economies should operate, such as how countries borrow money or manage their currencies
As a result, many states adjust their economic policies to fit these global rules
This demonstrates how powerful institutions can shape behaviour indirectly by creating systems that others must operate within
Relational power
Susan Strange also examined what she termed 'relational power', which is the ability of one state or actor to influence or control the actions and decisions of another actor directly
She argued that having resources and capacity increases the potential for power, but different actors are better than others in achieving the desired outcome
E.g., two companies might produce a very similar product, but one of the companies has a talented and creative advertising team, meaning more people are persuaded to buy the product
Strange argued that resources and strength are important components of power, but they need strategies, context and skill to bring about change
Case Study
Apple’s marketing and relational power
A good example of relational power can be seen in how Apple sells its products
Many companies produce smartphones and computers with similar technology and features, however, Apple has been very successful at persuading people to buy its products
Relational power in action
The company uses strong marketing, branding and advertising to create a sense that its products are modern, high-quality and desirable
This shows relational power
Apple’s success is not only based on its resources or technology
It also depends on communication skills, strategy and understanding its audience
This supports Susan Strange’s idea that power is not just about having resources - it also depends on how effectively actors use those resources to influence others
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