Korea's science diplomacy in the age of technopolitics
The power of traditional geopolitics is being challenged in the 21st century. Territory, natural resources and military power have long constituted — and remain — the principal foundations of national influence. But technological capabilities are becoming just as important, and sometimes more so, in shaping the fate of nations as they amplify geopolitical advantages, compensate for traditional…
In the 21st century, the traditional pillars of geopolitics—territory, natural resources, and military might—face a formidable challenge from the burgeoning power of technology. This technological surge is reshaping the global balance of power in unprecedented ways, as demonstrated by the concept of "technopolitics" developed by science historian Gabrielle Hecht.
Technopolitics refers to the intricate interplay between political objectives and technological advancements, transcending the mere industrial application of technology.
Today, nations are not only leveraging technology as an industrial tool but are also utilizing it as a paramount instrument for political, economic, diplomatic, and security strategies. This transformative shift is evident in national strategies worldwide. For instance, the United States recently unveiled its National Security Science and Technology Strategy in August, explicitly positioning science and technology as a cornerstone of national security.
This strategic pivot underscores the profound impact of technopolitics on contemporary international relations, as nations recognize the critical role technology plays in maintaining and asserting their geopolitical influence in an era where digital capabilities rival traditional military might.
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- Korea's science diplomacy in the age of technopolitics koreatimes.co.kr
