With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility: Yet power is loud, responsibility is silent in politics.
“With great power comes great responsibility.” said Uncle Ben, Spider-Man (2002) This iconic quote from the Spider-Man franchise has transcended its cinematic origins to become a universal moral axiom. While it was initially meant to guide a young superhero grappling with newfound abilities, its resonance extends far beyond the realm of fiction. It encompasses all areas and professions in the real world, particularly in the realm of global politics. This principle serves as a crystal-clear reminder of the ethical weight that comes with exercising influence. Political power, like superhuman strength, is a double-edged sword. Such powers are used to uplift societies, promote peace, and drive innovation, or they can be abused to exploit, oppress, and destroy. Such destruction can be an outcome of selfishness. Generally, politicians are motivated by self-interest, whether for their own benefit or the good of their country. The history of global politics is a testament to both possibilities: creation and destruction. From imperial downfalls to nuclear diplomacy, the trajectory of human civilization has been shaped by how power was exercised and by whom. Great examples are the United States of America, China, and India. We will study the example below. The Dual Nature of Political Power Political power is neither inherently virtuous nor heinous. It is a tool, and its moral character is determined by its application. Leaders and nations have historically utilized power to establish institutions, liberate individuals, and promote human rights. Conversely, the same power has been used to colonize, enslave, loot, radicalize, wars, and commit terrorism. This duality is not just theoretical—it’s deeply embedded in the historical record. Let’s examine a few such examples to depict the good and the bad uses of political power. Imperialism: The Destructive Use of Power One of the most glaring and heinous examples of destructive political power is European imperialism. Between the 15th and 20th centuries, European powers, including Britain, France, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, established colonies across Africa, Asia, and the Americas. These empires justified their expansion through a mix of economic ambition, racial superiority, and religious zeal. All the colonies looted the world and filled their treasuries. Yet none of the economies could maintain a top position in terms of GDP and consistent growth until the 21st century. All these economies are sitting on the looted treasures and the technologies from different parts of the world. Case Study: British Colonialism in India The British East India Company began its operations in India in the early 1600s, initially as a trading entity. At that time, India contributed 23% of the world’s GDP. Over time, it morphed into a political force, exploiting internal divisions and establishing control over vast territories. By the mid-19th century, India was under direct British rule. Destruction: Britishers replicated this pattern worldwide. They plunder the colonies for resources, labour, and strategic advantage, while the colonizers enriched their own nations. The biggest Irony is that these colonisers now teach lessons in ethics, good and bad habits, technological training, sustainability, creating an eco-friendly environment, and pollution control, among others. Nuclear Power: The Ultimate Test of Responsibility If imperialism was the misuse of political power in the past, nuclear technology represents the modern test of responsible as well as destructive power. The Atomic Bomb: Destruction Unleashed In 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, instantly killing over 100,000 people and leaving long-term radiation effects. These bombings ended World War II but introduced the world to a terrifying new reality: humanity now possessed the power to extinguish itself. Nuclear Energy: Constructive Potential Yet, the same nuclear technology can be harnessed for peaceful purposes. Nuclear power plants generate electricity with minimal carbon emissions, offering a cleaner and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Countries such as France and Japan have heavily relied on nuclear energy to meet their energy needs. But here is the catch. What if such Nuclear Energy countries engage in war, and enemies target their nuclear power plants? This could even lead to retaliatory atomic war. This dichotomy—between the bomb and the reactor—illustrates the essence of the Spider-Man quote. Power itself is neutral; responsibility determines its legacy. Powers of the United States of America The USA has tremendous political power. Smaller countries look to the USA for protection of their political sovereignty, economic support, and territorial integrity. Why do they look at America? Because it has monetary, political, influential, and military powers. The bad part of their power Is it a time when some other country will replace the world’s powerful country? Please do comment below. Powers of India India gained independence in August 1947. Israel got the same in 1948. But look at how Israel progressed, despite being surrounded by enemies, and even after facing a fatal attack on it, it stood tall in the world. Especially in technology and security agencies (Mossad), no one can compete with it. The difference between the powers of India and Israel 1998 Government Successfully tested nuclear weapons and made significant changes to a globalization policy. 2004 to 2014 Governments Examine the misuse of power. Unfortunately, I could not write about the good parts of this government because there are hardly any. 2014 onwards governments Now this is referred to as a political willingness. Power of China Now you may call it a dictatorship or the government’s smartness. One thing is sure, they never face the problem of over-independence, communal riots, and hatred. But on the contrary, they do not offer independence. The Real Meaning of “With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility” At its core, this quote is a call to ethical stewardship. It urges those in positions of influence—be they superheroes, politicians, or nations—to act with foresight, compassion, and accountability. In global politics, this means: Controlled Power as Patriotism, Creativity, and Artistry True power lies not in brute force but in restraint and vision. The ability to wield power constructively is a form of patriotism—it reflects a commitment to the greater good, not just national self-interest. Consider the Marshall Plan after World