The use of the concepts of hegemony and imperialism is interspersed in the literature of International Relations to explain a hierarchical international order under the domination of one power. The term "imperialism" is generally used by Marxists, to emphasize elements of coercion, which, differently than in classic imperialism, takes place today in a more opaque and indirect form. "Hegemony" is used broadly by critical theorists, realists and institutionalists, emphasizing elements of consensus, such as rules, norms and international institutions. The period of U.S. dominance has been characterized with both terms.
Imperialism; Hegemony; Marxism; Realism; Institutionalism