b. Utilization of Level Multiplicity

b. Utilization of Level Multiplicity

 

In [Diag.2.A.3], we can see that the prerequisite condition is located inside the circle (the political actor) and, conversely, the goal of the activity is located outside the circle.

 

This can be summarized in [Diag.2.C.4] to emphasize the point. In this diagram, each phenomenal layer can correspond to one item of Samjae capacities in order.

 

[Diag.2.C.4] The Three-Level Scale and Level Multiplicity of Political Phenomena and the Orderliness of Choice

 

The utilization of level multiplicity in understanding political phenomena (or all social phenomena) is one method of systematically comprehending the relationship between various factors that influence a given political phenomenon. To be more precise, the following can be stated:

 

         [Ch.2.23] By applying level multiplicity, it is possible to analyze political phenomena in terms of optimized and systematic interaction of factors when understanding them.

 

Here, the benefits of the level multiplicity of social phenomena are ⓐ"optimization" and ⓑ"systemization". Optimization refers to obtaining the maximum explanatory effect with the minimum concept, while systemization means presenting the logical relationship between factors. Some factors will interact equally, while others will logically take priority over others.

 

For example, consider the case where new technology or new production tools are created. If we simply think of new technology as a phenomenon of one layer, we cannot consistently explain its complex causal relationships. This is because the technology that dramatically improves productivity in developed countries may not do so in underdeveloped countries. In order to actually bring about the effect of improved productivity through new technology and new production tools, a basic operating system for innovation and production, the platform, must be introduced, and there must be a receptive attitude to new business methods on the lower layer. Even in this structure, three-layer scales can be set. On the bottom layer, there is a receptive attitude to new business methods as a prerequisite condition, on the middle layer is the basic platform for innovation and production, and this is actual activity. When this is done, the goal of the activity of new technology, the dramatically improved productivity, is obtained.

 

The level multiplicity of political phenomenon, as understood thusly, can be utilized in political activities with regard to rival forces. By analyzing political phenomenon in a three-layered manner, the three dimensions of responding methods can be derived when cooperating or opposing with other political forces.

 

Firstly, changing the activity goal of the adversary. In the case of cooperation, one agrees with or values the adversary's goal. Conversely, when opposing, one weakens the value of the adversary's activity goal by countering that their goal is worthless. Secondly, changing the actual activity of the adversary. In the case of cooperation, one works together with the adversary, and when opposing, one interferes with what the adversary is doing. Thirdly, changing the prerequisite conditions of the adversary. In the case of cooperation, one reinforces the prerequisite conditions, and in the case of opposition, one destroys the prerequisite conditions. If the adversary is at war, supporting military supplies is cooperation, while isolating the adversary diplomatically or blocking the influx of strategic supplies is opposition.

 

Since 1899, after Nicholas II's ascendancy to power, Russia imposed its Russification policy while limiting Finland's autonomy. In opposition, Finland sent a delegation of 50 representatives with a petition attached with signatures from 50,000 Finns opposing the policy to the imperial government in St. Petersburg. This aimed to change the purpose of the opponent's activity. However, when the delegation failed to deliver the petition and only received a cold reception, the Finns established a secret alliance of resistance called "Kahl" at the end of 1899 to resist Russia's conscription law through resistance. This aimed to change the opponent's actual behavior. If this failed, it would have led to a change in prerequisite conditions. For example, men targeted for conscription fled abroad.

 

The Plaza Agreement, concluded under the pretext of a defense allocation under the name of Japanese yen appreciation, is an example of changing prerequisite conditions. Japan's advanced products swept the world, and when a trade imbalance occurred between Japan and the US and the US deficit grew, the US demanded yen appreciation to rectify the situation. If the trade imbalance between the US and Japan is considered a "actual activity of phenomenal layer," then the exchange rate is considered a "prerequisite conditions of phenomenal layer." The US tried to naturally resolve the trade deficit by changing this prerequisite condition.