Theory of Unipolar Politics (Cambridge Studies in International Relations, Series Number 132)

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the United States enjoys unparalleled military power. The international system is therefore unipolar. A quarter century later, however, we still possess no theory of unipolarity. Theory of Unipolar Politics provides one. Dr. Nuno P. Monteiro answers three of the most important questions about the workings of a unipolar world. Is it durable? Is it peaceful? What is the best grand strategy a unipolar power such as the contemporary United States can implement? In our nuclear world, the power preponderance of the United States is potentially durable but likely to produce frequent conflict. Furthermore, in order to maintain its power preponderance, the United States must remain militarily engaged in the world and accommodate the economic growth of its major competitors, namely, China. This strategy, however, will lead Washington to wage war frequently. In sum, military power preponderance brings significant benefits but is not an unalloyed good.