The power of recognition: rethinking the instrumentality of status in world politics

Abstract This article explores the relationship between social status and power in world politics. It challenges the conventional view that status translates into power via voluntary deference. Instead, it argues that the power of status lies in the ability of high-status states to encourage beneficiary actions from others through recognition. It presents a new theoretical framework, demonstrating its utility through a case-study of the United States' relationships with small and major powers. The analysis shows that the effectiveness of recognition depends on the status gap between the recognizer and the status-seeker, with higher status gaps leading to more effective recognition. Encouraged by the prospect of recognition, smaller powers may be willing to go to war, and even kill, in locations where they neither have direct interests nor face immediate threats. The US has also benefited from the power of recognition vis-à-vis higher-status states. However, status competitors to the US are cautious not to appear deferential. This can lead to more confrontational and competitive behaviour. Moreover, rising powers' desire for US recognition is at times also at odds with the US' own security interests and preference for high status.