The contemporary world — military, strategic and related aspects

Abstract

The focus of this symposium is on strategic matters. My task in this initial presentation deals with the ratios of power in the contemporary world. That word, power, occurs frequently in the discussion of international affairs. Its meaning is not an obvious one, nor are the meanings of most of the other terms which predominate in the discussion of international affairs obvious. I think it advisable, therefore, to clarify some of the basic terms pertinent to the topic.