The Tragedy Of Great Power Politics

Chapter 5 highlights the methods great powers employ to maximize their share of world power. Mearsheimer posits that states are primarily driven by the pursuit of hegemony within their region, due to the inherent challenges in projecting power across oceans. This pursuit of regional dominance is underpinned by the desire for economic superiority, as wealth is a crucial foundation for military power. Furthermore, great powers strive to have dominant land forces and seek nuclear superiority, though the latter is particularly challenging to achieve.

The chapter then explores various strategies states use to either gain power or prevent others from gaining power. War, despite its controversial and destructive nature, is a primary method for acquiring power. Mearsheimer challenges the notion that conquest is futile, arguing that history provides instances where expansion through war has been beneficial.

Great powers, according to Mearsheimer, not only aim for regional hegemony but are also intensely focused on economic dominance. The quest for wealth is not solely for economic prosperity but is intrinsically linked to military strength. In this pursuit, states are vigilant about the economic rise of potential rivals, as economic power can be swiftly converted into military might.