Question

Define the terms unipolar and bipolar world

Answer 1

Polarity in international relationsis any of the various ways in which power is distributed within the international system. It describes the nature of the international system at any given period of time. One generally distinguishes four types of systems:unipolarity,bipolarity,tripolarity, andmultipolarityfor four or more centers of power.[1]The type of system is completely dependent on the distribution of power and influence of states in a region[2]or globally.It is widely believed amongst theorists in international relations that the post-Cold War international system is unipolar: TheUnited States’ defense spending is “close to half of global military expenditures; a blue-water navy superior to all others combined; a chance at a powerful nuclear first strike over its erstwhile foe,Russia; a defense research and development budget that is 80 percent of the total defense expenditures of its most obvious future competitor,China; and unmatched global power-projection capabilities.”[3]