Balance of power

How it is used

A classic concept of realism and European diplomatic history. States may 'balance' against a rising power by building up their own strength or forming alliances, or 'bandwagon' by joining the stronger side. News writers use 'a shift in the balance of power'.

Example sentences

1. The rise of new economies is changing the balance of power in the region.

2. Nineteenth-century Europe is often described as a balance of power system.

3. Realists expect states to form alliances to restore the balance of power.

Common collocations

• shift in the balance of power
• maintain the balance of power
• regional balance of power
• balance of power politics

Related terms

• realismA major theory of international relations holding that states are the main actors, that they pursue power and security in an anarchic system, and that conflict is always possible.
• great powerA state with enough military, economic and political strength to influence events far beyond its own region and to shape the international system.
• allianceA formal agreement between two or more states to support each other, especially militarily, and the group of states that make such an agreement.
• hegemonyLeadership or dominance by one state over others, based on military, economic and often cultural power, which allows it to set many of the rules of the system.
• national interestWhat a government sees as most important for its country's security, prosperity and values, used to explain and justify foreign policy choices.

More terms: Theories of International Relations

• international relations
• liberalism
• constructivism
• anarchy
• security dilemma
• interdependence
• non-state actor