Question

“If big and resourceful states cannot resist the US hegemony, it is unrealistic to expect much smaller and weaker non-state actors to offer any resistance.” Examine this proposition and give your opinion.

Answer 1

There might be lots of debates and discussions with regard to how to overcome the US hegemony, ranging from a ‘bandwagon’ strategy to a ‘hide’ strategy. Although it may seem absolutely unrealistic to expect non-state actors to resist the US’s actions, it does seem to be an impossible option in the long run.

a. It is argued that the challenge to the US hegemony must come from the non-state actors, civil rights groups, NGOs from social movements and public opinion.
b. The media, intellectuals, artists, writers, etc., can collectively play a proactive role in condemning those US military actions that are considered detrimental to the interest of the global community at large.
c. The people of the US can serve as an effective moral force on the action of the US, demanding justification of its actions and can serve as a powerful deterrent on its decisions.
d. In this era of globalisation, where we have witnessed increased exchange of ideas and beliefs, pressure from the international community and from global citizens can serve as a real moral restraint on the US hegemony, condemning its military actions.