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Complex Interdependence and Alternative Explanations Complex Interdependence Alternative Explanations

1) a multiple number of actors, placing an emphasis on non-state actors
2) multiple channels
through which these actors interact in the system
3) a changing hierarchy of issues
4) a decrease in the use of military force in
interactions
1) an explanation of uneven relationships in various issue areas (World Systems Theory and Structural Imperialism)
2) a context in which these relationships take place (Globalization)
3) an explanation of the goals of the actors
(Integration)
4) a broadening of the environment for making decisions (Regimes)

In addition, complex interdependence provides two
15 Keohane and Nye, Power and Interdependence, pp. 24-25.
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fertile concepts: sensitivity, 'the degree of responsiveness within a policy framework - how quickly do changes in one country bring costly changes in another" and vulnerability, 'the relative availability and costliness of the
alternatives that various actors face."16 If an entity is less sensitive to changes, it will be able to retain a
dominant status through maintaining the status quo. If it is more sensitive, it will feel forced to adjust its policies more often and more quickly. If an entity is less
vulnerable, it will have the ability to keep control through the policy choices it makes to confront issues. If it is more vulnerable, it will become increasingly less able to find policy solutions to its problems in a timely, efficient manner.
The key idea extrapolated here is: a less sensitive and less vulnerable actor will have more influence and control (showing leadership or being dominant) in an issue area. In addition, it behaves less as an interdependent actor in an interdependent world. It is more detached, possibly even showing signs of imperialism. In other words, it is able to have a greater impact on international policy instead of reacting to it.