The Formation of the BRICS and its Implication for the United States Emerging Together

While still considered a world political and economic superpower, the United States is becoming increasingly well-matched by five emerging economies known as the BRICS: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Together, these countries would have the clout to limit the United States' ability to engage in its preferred foreign policies, thereby reducing US power abroad. In anticipation of this potential alliance, Schaefer and Poffenbarger analyze the foreign policies of individual BRICS members for common goals and approaches as well as bilateral problems that may exist between member states. With particular attention paid to the BRICS' Africa strategy and founding of the New Development Bank, this work explores joint actions of the BRICS body and suggests policy recommendations the US might adopt in response.

Mark E. Schaefer is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science at Marietta College. He earned his Ph.D. in Political Science from West Virginia University in 2005.

John G. Poffenbarger is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Social Sciences and Modern Language at Wheeling Jesuit University. He earned his Ph.D. from West Virginia University in 2005.

Dedication Page
Table of Contents
List of Graphs and Charts
1. Introduction: Are these BRICS for Building? 
2. Are the BRICS a Sum of their Parts? 
3. The BRICS in Action, Well Maybe 
4. The Power of Development and the Africa Strategy 
5. Are thes BRICS for Real? The Impact on the United States and the US Response
Appendix: Graphs and Charts
Bibliography