Gravitational Power: An Analysis of Chinese Finance and Influence in Latin America and the Caribbean

Abstract

This thesis draws on the power analysis structure of Joseph Nye and suggests the addition of a new term to the IR lexicon: gravitational power. Gravitational power is defined as a self-reinforcing loop that draws countries into China’s orbit via official finance and loans. Once in China’s orbit, it becomes more difficult to leave. China’s gravitational power grows positively with the size of its economy and the number of economic partners it has in its orbit. Analysis of China’s history in Latin America and examination of case studies provides evidence, and China is found to use a mixed soft-and-gravitational power strategy.