Geopolitics

Meaning

The study and practice of how geography, including location, resources, terrain, and physical space, influences the political power, strategy, and international relations of states

Origin / Etymology

Greek geo (earth) + politika (political affairs); coined by Swedish political scientist Rudolf Kjellen (1899)

Synonyms

Geostrategic affairs International power politics Strategic geography

Example Sentence

"India's geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific is shaped by its central location between the Persian Gulf energy corridor and the South China Sea trade routes."

🎯 UPSC Usage

High-value word for GS2 (India's foreign policy, international relations). Key related terms: 'geopolitical rivalry', 'geostrategic location', 'geopolitical flashpoint', 'geopolitical realignment'. India's SAGAR doctrine, Act East Policy, and Neighbourhood First policy are all geopolitical frameworks. Never spell 'geopolitics' as a personal adjective, use 'geopolitical' as the adjective.

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