How has the study of geopolitics evolved over time?

The study of geopolitics has evolved significantly over time, with major changes occurring in both its theoretical underpinnings and its practical applications. At its core, geopolitics is concerned with the interaction of geography, power, and politics, and how these factors influence the behavior of states and other actors on the international stage.

One of the earliest and most influential thinkers in the field of geopolitics was Sir Halford Mackinder, a British geographer and politician who developed the concept of the 'geographical pivot of history' in the early 20th century. According to Mackinder, the key to global power was control of the 'World Island,' a vast landmass that includes much of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

During the Cold War, geopolitics became closely associated with the study of international security and the balance of power between the United States and the Soviet Union. This era saw the emergence of the 'containment' strategy, which sought to prevent the spread of Soviet influence and limit the expansion of communism around the world.

In more recent years, the study of geopolitics has become increasingly interdisciplinary, incorporating insights from fields such as economics, sociology, and cultural studies. Today, geopolitics is used to analyze a wide range of issues, from climate change and environmental degradation to the rise of China as a global superpower.