Definition
Influence exerted through military might and economic coercion, the traditional approach to international relations before soft power became fashionable.
Example Usage
The superpower relied on hard power to enforce its strategic interests throughout the region.
Origin
Counterpart to soft power; formalized in international relations discourse by Joseph Nye.
Fun Fact
Most successful international influence combines both soft and hard power, though politicians often overestimate hard power effectiveness.
Source: International relations and foreign policy
Related Terms
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