The Effect of Relational Power Conception on International Power Studies

Abstract

Despite the expansion in the field of power studies as one of the key concepts of social sciences and especially in international relations, the scope of ambiguity in this field is very extensive. Perhaps it is for this reason that the terms "controversial" and "contentious" are considered by most analysts as the most basic features of power. The mentioned condition can be considered from different dimensions; In particular, from the various perceptions that have been formed about the nature, function and constituent elements of this category, as well as how the link between its two central components, namely "resources" and "control of effects and results", has been formed. In any case, assuming that any conception of power has a direct impact on the process of "conceptualizing the world politics"; the focus of this study is on how the "relational conception" as a multidimensional and productive approach affects the international studies of power. The main question is: Based on the evolution of the international literature on power, how effective has been the relational conception of power? The main hypothesis is: In the context of the international power literature, the “relational” conception (power to) has provided the setting for the creation and reinforcement of a multidimensional view of power in the form of “four-dimensional typology”, “Global orders and Civilizations” and “Global Governance”. The research method of this study is explanatory.