In my international relations theory class we discuss the reasons behind the rise of hegemonic power(s) through history. Hegemonic powers refer to the nations (empires) that become the world's rule setters, and the keepers of the peace. The eras of Pax Romana, Pax Brittanica and Pax Americana are examples of history's peace keepers.
Apart from a preponderance of military and economic power the great powers of history (e.g. Rome, Britain, and the United States) were able to inspire others to follow their lead because of what their ideas and their cultures inspired. At its height Rome was tolerant and inspired a republic. Britain opposed slavery while bringing trade and parliamentary ideas.
Apart from developing a progressive Liberal Republic, the United States didn't have to send in the tanks or attack the Soviet Union with nukes during the cold war because Elvis, Michael Jackson and Pepsi got there first.
The Russian people looked at all of this and said "We want that too ...". They would eventually tell the Soviet Union and their socialist ideas to take a hike (as it were).
I bring this up because, if this YouTube video clip is any indication (original version here), it's a good thing the Soviet Union didn't create the environment for the great singers and bands that emerged in the west. The Russian people - or at least the Cossacks - appear to have had what it took to lead the world in cultural areas like interpretive dance, and even break dancing ...
So, yeah, the Soviet Union may have been one Elvis and a couple of good bands away from dominating pop culture, attracting the world's youth, and taking over the world ;-)
Yeah, yeah, I know.
- Mark
Apart from a preponderance of military and economic power the great powers of history (e.g. Rome, Britain, and the United States) were able to inspire others to follow their lead because of what their ideas and their cultures inspired. At its height Rome was tolerant and inspired a republic. Britain opposed slavery while bringing trade and parliamentary ideas.
Apart from developing a progressive Liberal Republic, the United States didn't have to send in the tanks or attack the Soviet Union with nukes during the cold war because Elvis, Michael Jackson and Pepsi got there first.
The Russian people looked at all of this and said "We want that too ...". They would eventually tell the Soviet Union and their socialist ideas to take a hike (as it were).
I bring this up because, if this YouTube video clip is any indication (original version here), it's a good thing the Soviet Union didn't create the environment for the great singers and bands that emerged in the west. The Russian people - or at least the Cossacks - appear to have had what it took to lead the world in cultural areas like interpretive dance, and even break dancing ...
So, yeah, the Soviet Union may have been one Elvis and a couple of good bands away from dominating pop culture, attracting the world's youth, and taking over the world ;-)
Yeah, yeah, I know.
- Mark
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