Home › Military Science & Warfare › Arms Races & Defense Spending › hegemony

hegemony

hi-JEM-uh-nee /hɪˈdʒɛməni/

nounC2GRESATUPSC

formalacademic

Leadership or dominance, especially by one state or social group over others.

Implies a form of dominance that is not solely based on military force, but also on economic, cultural, and political influence, often leading to a widely accepted (though sometimes resented) leadership role.

The story behind the word. The word 'hegemony' comes from the Greek 'hegemon,' meaning 'leader' or 'guide.' This root gave rise to 'hegemonia,' meaning 'leadership' or 'rule.' In English, 'hegemony' appeared in the 16th century, initially referring to the leadership of one state over others in a confederation. It gained its broader sense of political, economic, or cultural dominance in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in academic and geopolitical discourse.

Word relationships

dominance: More general; can be achieved through various means, including pure force.
supremacy: Implies being superior in power or authority.
ascendancy: A position of dominance or controlling influence.

subordination: The act of placing in a lower rank or position.
equality: The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities.
anarchy: A state of disorder due to absence or non-recognition of authority.

Word family

hegemonic (adjective): Exercising or involving hegemony.

Collocations

global hegemony
cultural hegemony
economic hegemony
challenge hegemony
maintain hegemony

Example sentences

"The post-Cold War era saw the United States establish a period of global hegemony, influencing international norms and institutions." International relations theory.
"Cultural hegemony refers to the dominance of one social group's ideas and values over others, often without overt coercion." Sociological analysis.

Memory hook

Think of a 'he-man' (sounds like 'hege' in hegemony) who is the dominant 'leader' or strongman. Dominant leadership

When not to use

Do not use for simple leadership or influence. 'Hegemony' implies a pervasive, often systemic, dominance by one entity over many others, usually states or social groups.

Fun facts

The concept of 'cultural hegemony' was extensively developed by Italian Marxist philosopher Antonio Gramsci to explain how ruling classes maintain power not just through force, but through the consent of the ruled, achieved by shaping cultural norms and values.