Diffused Power, Regional Complexes and the Epistemological Recasting of Balance-of-Power Theory Introduction Balance-of-power theory—classical and neorealist—has long occupied centre stage in international relations as an analytic for explaining state behaviour under anarchy. Its core propositions assume (i) states as unitary, rational actors; (ii) systemic polarity (uni/multi/bipolarity) as the primary structuring variable; and (iii) the relative … Continue reading How does the diffusion of power across state, sub-state, and transnational actors alter the epistemological foundations of balance-of-power theory, particularly with respect to assumptions of rationality, polarity, and the fungibility of capabilities? Does the emergence of regional security complexes produce nested balancing dynamics that coexist with — or contradict — systemic-level balancing? Develop your argument with reference to Asia-Pacific, West Asia, or Europe.