Comments On Geopolitics And Power

Abstract

This chapter offers some thoughts in response to Sir Jeremy Greenstock. They are the thoughts of a political scientist who has been fascinated by the study of international relations and who has understood politics to be all about the pursuit of power. Greenstock's observations provide some evidence for the kind of statements that author might wish to make about the behaviour of actors on international stage. His list of government priorities was especially useful for understanding the behaviour of state actors internationally. He stated that the first priority for most governments is accountability to themselves. Subsequently, their responsibilities are to their domestic constituencies, and then to promote national interests in the international context. Finally, they have an accountability to the existing norms, standards, treaties and charters that are out there, and that will tell us a lot about what behaviour to expect, as opposed to what likely is to happen. Keywords: accountability; geopolitics; government priorities; international relations; national interests; power; Sir Jeremy Greenstock