Provide a concise definition that includes the key elements of hard power: coercion through military and/or economic means.
Full Answer
Hard power is a coercive approach to international relations that involves the use of military and economic might to get other nations to do what you want. Examples include military intervention, coercive diplomacy, and economic sanctions. It is contrasted with 'soft power', which relies on attraction and persuasion through culture, political values, and foreign policies.
Common mistakes
Students might only mention military force and forget to include economic force (like sanctions) as another form of hard power.
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