|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ployed the latter approacha hegemonic oneand by analyzing it as such, we can explain many seemingly anomalous features of their empire. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
My analysis of the Aztec Empire is based on the work of Edward N. Luttwak,
3 who analyzes political relations in terms of the degree to which they rely on force and power. Force is defined as direct physical action, which can be exercised only in proportion to its availability and is consumed as it is used. Power (in which force is a component) operates indirectly and, unlike force, is not consumed in use. Rather than being primarily physical, power is psychologicalthe perception of the possessor's ability to achieve its ends. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The more a political system can rely on power rather than force, the more efficient it is, because the effort required to implement its goals comes from its subordinates; that is, the subordinates police themselves, allowing the dominant polity to conserve its own force. Such a political system is more than an elaborate game of deception and bluff; the ability to wield force is a necessary requirement of power, although its actual use is not always required. A single strong example by a polity of its ability to compel compliance may render repeated demonstrations unnecessary. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The effectiveness of a political system also depends on its goals: the perceived costs of compliance must not outweigh the perceived benefits unless the dominant polity is, in fact, prepared to exercise force on its own behalf. For example, if the dominant polity has a goal of keeping the populace of the subordinate polity from rebelling, it may exert power by demanding that the people be repressed by their own leaders. Regardless of their own sentiments, the leaders will do so (using their own force) if they perceive that such repression will forestall the dominant polity's use of force, perhaps in the form of a punitive invasion. In short, as long as the subordinate polity perceives the benefits as greater than the costs, it will generally comply with the desires of the dominant polity. The very real limitations of such a political system arise from different perceptions of the power of the dominant polity. As the costs to the subordinates rise, the benefits decline, and compliance becomes increasingly unreliable. Consequently, the more exploitative a political system is |
|
|
|
|
|