Power Balance Theory

When a country is significantly stronger than its neighbors, they are not likely to remain at peace for long. The country with the strongest military manpower and greater access to resources will eventually challenge and possibly conquer the weaker countries.

At least that's the world according to the balance of power theory. This theory, which dates back to the conflict between the Greek city-states, says that each nation is safer when it has equal military powers and capabilities.

Many modern countries, such as the United States and Canada, have built a balance of powers into their systems of government. In Brazil, the Legislative Power makes and approves the laws. The Judiciary interprets and defines the application of the law. The President leads through the Executive branch. These three branches exist so that none can dominate the others.

Power Balance

Balance of power theory led leaders to recognize that peace was possible if no state had too much power. One of the vital tools to ensure this balance was alliance building. States have also responded to rampant military growth in their neighbors by developing their own military capabilities.

Government

Not all countries have invested in balancing powers within their own government. However, many have seen the usefulness of doing so. Countries such as the United States and Canada have created systems of balance so that each branch is autonomous and able to ensure that other departments do not take too much control.

In the United States, for example, the president can veto laws passed by the Senate or Congress. However, there is also a process that can override a veto if the president uses that power too much.

Organizations that help maintain the balance of power

Groups such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) or the United Nations (UN) work to maintain peace and cooperation among nations. These groups help balance power globally by facilitating conversations. Sometimes these bodies intervene when states become too powerful for the security of their neighbors.

In contemporary society, there is an unequal concentration of wealth and power among states, so that these organizations strive to ensure that less powerful countries have a voice in politics International.