The power of recognition: rethinking the instrumentality of status in world politics
Journal: International Affairs
Year: 2025

Abstract This article explores the relationship between social status and power in world politics. It challenges the conventional view that status translates into power via voluntary deference. Instead, it argues that the power of status lies in the ability of high-status states to encourage beneficiary actions from others through recognition. It presents a new theoretical framework, demonstrating its utility through a case-study of the United States' relationships with small and major powers. T