Multipolarity myths and unipolar fantasies: New realities in crisis

Abstract

The conflict between the persistent dreams of unipolar supremacy and the myths of multipolarity is becoming a more prominent feature of the global order particularly after the meteoric rise of China and the relative decline of the United State. The article explains the contrast between these two paradigms, along with how both viewpoints mask the reality of a fractured and crisis-prone international society. Although multipolarity is sometimes welcomed as a return to normalcy and balance in great power politics and international system, it is hampered by unequal power dynamics, discontinued diplomatic coordination, and instability in certain regions. On the other hand, the continued existence of unipolar fantasies—especially in the stories of waning hegemons United states—does not take into consideration how single power is eroding in a complex and disputed global order. This study makes the case that neither multipolarity nor unipolarity effectively portrays the complexity of the modern world by looking at current challenges, which range from economic rivalry and geopolitical wars to technology upheavals and climate change. The study suggests conclusive evidences that United states still is in a good position to shape it constructed world and tackle the challenges coming its way.