Indirect Forms of Power

This section explores the subtle yet influential methods nations use to exert power on the global stage, focusing on language diffusion and technological mastery.

Language as a Vector of Power

Language plays a crucial role in expanding a nation's influence. Out of 6,000 languages spoken worldwide, only six dominate: English, Mandarin, Spanish, Hindi, Arabic, and French.

Example: Countries establish language institutes to promote their languages globally, such as Alliance Française (France), Confucius Institute (China), British Council (UK), Goethe-Institut (Germany), Instituto Cervantes (Spain), and Società Dante Alighieri (Italy).

Language competition is evident in various domains:

• Economy: Global English dominates
• Diplomacy: English prevails at the UN, while the EU uses English, French, and German
• Sports: English is prominent in international events like the Olympics

Highlight: Some countries, like India and China, strive to maintain their cultural identity and promote their languages in the face of English dominance.

Mastery of New Technologies

Technological advancement is a key factor in consolidating power in the modern era.

Vocabulary: GAFAM refers to Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft, the tech giants of the United States.

The United States holds significant technological power through companies like GAFAM, which generate revenues comparable to the GDP of some countries.

China is attempting to rival U.S. tech giants by creating its own digital powerhouses, known as BATX (Baidu, Alibaba, Tencent, and Xiaomi).

Control of Communication Routes

Mastering communication routes is a crucial attribute of power in the global landscape.

Example: China's "New Silk Roads" project, with an investment of over $1 trillion, aims to improve and create new land and sea routes connecting all continents.

This ambitious project reflects China's position as the world's leading trading power and its aspiration to become the center of global trade exchanges. However, it faces challenges such as potential debt issues and resistance from some countries.

Highlight: The Première puissance technologique mondiale status is currently held by the United States, but China is rapidly advancing its technological capabilities to challenge this position.