Book Review: "War by Other Means: Geoeconomics and Statecraft" (2016)

Book Review: "War by Other Means: Geoeconomics and Statecraft" (2016) 

Authors: Robert D. Blackwill and Jennifer M. Harris

Introduction:

"War by Other Means: Geoeconomics and Statecraft" by Robert D. Blackwill and Jennifer M. Harris is a seminal work that explores the increasingly significant role of geoeconomics in shaping global power dynamics. Published in 2016, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of how nations utilize economic tools and strategies to further their geopolitical objectives. With a focus on the intersection of economics and statecraft, the authors delve into various aspects of geoeconomics, presenting case studies and historical examples to support their arguments.

Overview:

Blackwill and Harris begin by laying the foundation for their analysis, asserting that geoeconomics plays a vital role in international relations, alongside traditional military and diplomatic tools. They define geoeconomics as the use of economic instruments to achieve geopolitical objectives, highlighting its multi-dimensional nature and its impact on state power and security. The authors argue that understanding and leveraging geoeconomics is crucial for countries to effectively navigate the complexities of the global order.

The book is divided into five main sections, each exploring a specific aspect of geoeconomics: trade, investment, finance, energy, and information. Through these sections, Blackwill and Harris present a comprehensive examination of how nations employ geoeconomic strategies in various domains.

Section 1: Trade

The authors emphasize the significance of trade as a geoeconomic tool and how it can be harnessed to shape international relations. They discuss the importance of market access, tariff and non-tariff barriers, trade agreements, and intellectual property rights in shaping the competitive landscape. The authors provide examples of countries like China, Germany, and the United States that have utilized trade policies to bolster their economic influence and achieve strategic objectives.

Section 2: Investment

Blackwill and Harris explore the role of investment as a geoeconomic instrument, focusing on foreign direct investment (FDI) and sovereign wealth funds. They examine how countries strategically attract or restrict foreign investment to enhance their national security and exert influence. The authors highlight the rise of state-controlled enterprises and sovereign wealth funds, pointing out their potential to leverage economic power for political ends.

Section 3: Finance

In this section, the authors delve into the realm of finance and its implications for geoeconomics. They discuss how financial systems, capital flows, and currency manipulation can be utilized as tools of statecraft. Blackwill and Harris analyze the impact of financial sanctions, economic statecraft, and financial warfare on shaping geopolitical outcomes. They provide case studies, such as the use of economic sanctions against Iran and Russia, to illustrate the effectiveness of these measures.

Section 4: Energy

Blackwill and Harris highlight the critical role of energy in geoeconomics and its impact on global power dynamics. They discuss the strategies employed by energy-rich nations to influence the global energy market and secure their interests. The authors examine the geopolitical implications of energy resources, such as oil and natural gas, and the role of state-owned energy companies. They also discuss the growing importance of renewable energy and the potential it holds for reshaping geoeconomic dynamics.

Section 5: Information

In the final section, the authors explore the role of information in geoeconomics and its influence on state power. They examine how countries use media, propaganda, cyber capabilities, and technological dominance to shape narratives, control information flows, and gain a competitive edge. Blackwill and Harris highlight the significance of information warfare and the challenges it poses to traditional notions of statecraft.

Case Studies and Historical Examples:

Blackwill and Harris provide several case studies and historical examples to support their analysis of geoeconomics and its impact on global power dynamics. Here are a few noteworthy examples from the book:

1.   The Marshall Plan:

The authors examine the Marshall Plan as a historical case study of geoeconomics. Following World War II, the United States implemented the Marshall Plan to aid in the economic recovery of war-torn European countries. The plan not only aimed to rebuild European economies but also served as a strategic tool to counter Soviet influence and prevent the spread of communism. The Marshall Plan is highlighted as an example of how geoeconomic strategies can be employed to achieve both economic and geopolitical objectives.

 

2.   China's Belt and Road Initiative:

The authors discuss China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a contemporary example of geoeconomics. The BRI is a massive infrastructure development project that aims to enhance connectivity between China and countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and beyond. Blackwill and Harris analyze the motivations behind China's BRI, emphasizing its economic and geopolitical implications. They argue that the BRI represents a comprehensive geoeconomic strategy by China to expand its influence, secure access to resources and markets, and shape the global order.

 

3.  Energy Geoeconomics:

Blackwill and Harris explore the use of energy as a geoeconomic tool, with notable case studies such as Russia's energy leverage over Europe. They examine Russia's utilization of its vast energy resources, particularly natural gas, as a means to exert influence and gain political leverage over European countries. The authors delve into instances where Russia employed energy supply disruptions and pricing tactics to advance its strategic interests, highlighting the intersection of energy and geopolitics.

 

4.   The Role of Technology:

In the section on information and technology, the authors present case studies to demonstrate the growing significance of technology as a geoeconomic tool. They discuss China's strategic approach to technological advancements, emphasizing the country's focus on areas such as artificial intelligence, 5G networks, and cyber capabilities. Blackwill and Harris analyze how China's technological prowess is seen as a key factor in its efforts to become a global leader and shape the future of technology-based industries.

 

5.  Economic Sanctions:

The authors explore the use of economic sanctions as a geoeconomic instrument. They examine various instances where countries imposed sanctions to achieve political objectives. Examples include the United States' use of economic sanctions against Iran to curb its nuclear program, and the European Union's imposition of sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. Blackwill and Harris discuss the effectiveness and limitations of economic sanctions in achieving geopolitical outcomes.

These case studies and historical examples, among others in the book, provide readers with a deeper understanding of geoeconomic strategies and their impact on statecraft and international relations. They highlight the diverse ways in which nations have utilized economic tools to pursue their geopolitical interests and shape the global balance of power.

Key Themes and Insights:

Throughout the book, Blackwill and Harris highlight several key themes and insights regarding geoeconomics and statecraft. One of the central arguments is that geoeconomics is an essential component of state power and security, alongside military capabilities and diplomacy. They emphasize the need for nations to adopt a strategic approach to geoeconomics, leveraging their economic strength to advance their geopolitical objectives.

The authors also stress the importance of understanding and anticipating the geoeconomic strategies employed by other nations. They argue that failure to recognize and respond to such strategies can result in significant power imbalances and diminished influence on the global stage. Blackwill and Harris provide numerous case studies, historical examples, and real-world scenarios to support their arguments, making the book highly informative and engaging.

Additionally, the authors caution against the isolationist approach that some nations may adopt, arguing that economic interdependence is a reality in today's interconnected world. They assert that countries must strike a balance between protecting their national interests and engaging in mutually beneficial economic relationships.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

One of the book's strengths lies in its comprehensive analysis of geoeconomics across multiple domains. Blackwill and Harris provide a well-researched and thorough examination of trade, investment, finance, energy, and information as geoeconomic tools. Their use of case studies and historical examples enriches the reader's understanding of the concepts discussed.

However, a potential weakness is the dense and scholarly nature of the book, which might make it less accessible to readers who are not well-versed in international relations or economics. Some sections may require a basic understanding of economic concepts and theories to fully grasp the authors' arguments. It is advisable for readers to approach the book with some prior knowledge or be prepared to invest additional effort in comprehending the content.

Conclusion:

"War by Other Means: Geoeconomics and Statecraft" by Robert D. Blackwill and Jennifer M. Harris is a significant contribution to the field of international relations and geoeconomics. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of the growing importance of geoeconomics in shaping global power dynamics. It highlights the need for nations to recognize and leverage economic instruments as tools of statecraft to achieve their geopolitical objectives.

While the scholarly style and complexity of the content may pose a challenge for some readers, the insights provided by Blackwill and Harris are valuable for those interested in understanding the evolving nature of international relations. "War by Other Means" serves as a thought-provoking resource for policymakers, academics, and individuals interested in economics, international affairs, and the intersection of the two.

In conclusion, "War by Other Means" is a well-researched and thought-provoking book that illuminates the significance of geoeconomics in the contemporary geopolitical landscape. It encourages readers to broaden their understanding of statecraft beyond traditional military means, emphasizing the need to comprehend and leverage economic power in pursuit of national interests.