Contested American Dominance: Global Order in an Era of Rising Powers

Authors

Salvador Santino F. Regilme Jr.
James Parisot, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

6-2020

Abstract

The goal of this chapter is to present an analytic overview of what the potential of American decline means for rising powers on a global scale. The chapter argues that while indicators suggest American power has been declining, the shape this takes and the extent to which it falters will depend upon the contingency of global politics related to overall instability in the international system. To clarify this position: First, the chapter provides a brief overview of the current state of the scholarly and policy debates on the status of American power. Second, it examines the extent to which American power is in relative decline. Here, we will cover the US’s economic struggles, decline of political leadership internationally, and military ineffectiveness, among other issues. Third, it explores the ways rising powers such as the BRICS countries and most particularly China are – or are not – providing an alternative to American global leadership. Finally, the chapter concludes by highlighting the ways through which the future of American dominance depends on both the decisions and collective actions of those in the corridors of power and from various social movements in the periphery.

Recommended Citation

Regilme, S. S., and J. Parisot. “Contested American Dominance: Global Order in an Era of Rising Powers.” The Routledge Handbook of Transformative Global Studies, edited by S. A. Hosseini et al., Routledge, 2020, pp. 181–93.

First Page

181

Last Page

193

Publication Title

The Routledge Handbook of Transformative Global Studies