Who Should Be the Next Superpower?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of superpowers and the implications of having a dominant nation or entity in global politics. Participants explore historical contexts, the role of empires, and the potential for alternative structures such as a coalition of nations or corporations. The conversation touches on themes of governance, citizen welfare, and the dynamics of power.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express skepticism about the need for a superpower, suggesting instead a coalition of nations working collaboratively for global welfare.
  • Others argue that large superpowers like the US and USSR are inherently flawed due to the logistical challenges of managing vast territories and populations.
  • A viewpoint is presented that future power dynamics may shift from nation-states to corporations or groups of corporations.
  • Concerns are raised about the historical failures of empires, with some participants noting that internal corruption and self-serving interests contribute to their downfall.
  • Some participants highlight the importance of a counterbalance in global power dynamics, referencing the USSR's role in keeping the US in check during the Cold War.
  • There is a discussion about the differences between "superpower" and "empire," with some participants asserting that they are not synonymous.
  • A participant mentions the Commonwealth as a model of cooperation among nations, contrasting it with the failures of past empires.
  • Another participant challenges the argument that modern communication mitigates the issues faced by historical empires, suggesting that corruption remains a significant factor in the decline of superpowers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best model for global governance or the future of superpowers. Multiple competing views are presented, with ongoing debate about the implications of different power structures.

Contextual Notes

Some arguments rely on historical examples and assumptions about the nature of power and governance, which may not be universally applicable. There are unresolved questions regarding the effectiveness of proposed alternatives to superpowers.

  • #31
Art said:
bear in mind because of the reduction in Scottish representation in Westminster they lost 19 seats

To be precise there were 13 less seats in Scotland (all former Labour safe seats) and boundary changes removed Labour's safe seat status in a further 6
 
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  • #32
China + India + Russia = New World Super power
 
  • #33
The islamic world although not a single country works together in many respects. This is a growing power in the world. Also they have growing influence in the areas which attract immigration.

Obviously the massive populations of china and India give superpower status.
 
  • #34
himanshu121 said:
China + India + Russia = New World Super power

what is the basis of yours argument? :bugeye:
 
  • #35
Daminc said:
Which is why a lot of people (in Britain at least) was surprised that Bush was voted back in.

In the UK Blair has lost a lot of support over the War and it was only because of the track record of strengthening the economy and other plans that he got back in (that, and the fact that Mr Howard was the only serious rival and people trusted him even less than Blair).

And I could be counted among the surprised
 

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