POWERTHIRST!

Should powerful countries look after the interests of less-powerful countries? In other words, is there any particular obligation to others associated with being a powerful country?

Unequivocally, yes. In an era of globalization, it is impossible for any major power center to remain isolationist. To do so would not only inhibit its growth but also weaken its standing relative to the other dominant players. Conceded, this power center could possibly ignore the interests of a weaker state, but in an age of interconnected international politics it is more likely that the two players would have some propensity for mutual benefit. 

In American politics, the pervasive mentality is that the economy is headed into a recession. A concerned and deeply divided citizenry has made repeated partisan accusations of its conflicting ideology to no avail. But nevertheless there must be a universal scapegoat. Not surprisingly, in this condition people are susceptible to prejudices and even xenophobia. Consequently, a foreign power is often the perceived enemy of the state, a contender that must be outdone. With many Americans, that threat is China. 

China’s recent output has increased astronomically. The Beijing Olympics, an astounding commercial and diplomatic success, heightened the stature of an already powerful world player.  Many U.S. goods have been produced in China for the last three decades. It is important to note the attitude toward China, as reflected by the media. China is seen as a competitor for American jobs, foreign oil, and a new market for the finite amount of scarce resources. 

The problem with this one sided view is of course that it neglects to acknowledge that the U.S. also benefits from its relationship with China. In the postmodern era, the economies of one country can be connected to another in multiple ways. Prosperity in China does not mean depression in America. Rather, if one economy does well it is likely that the other will also enjoy a healthy economy. 

China hardly seems like a weaker country. But in considering even its recent history, it is evident that China was not always the power house. It harnessed its manufacturing capabilities and built a corporate sector that rivals (and in some ways surpasses) that of the U.S. China, three decades ago was not a leading world power then any more than individual members of the European Union are now. Because China became a more powerful state through U.S. economic policies, the U.S. also benefitted from the relationship. 

More powerful entities should look out for the interests of lesser organizations. In many cases, they are one and the same.