In "The Revenge of Geography," Robert D. Kaplan explores the significant influence of military power, particularly that of the Air Force, on shaping international relations and ideologies. He argues that the military's capabilities enable universalist concepts to gain prominence over specific geographical contexts and the unique histories of nations. This dynamic suggests that military strength can overshadow the importance of historical and territorial factors.

Kaplan's analysis highlights how the power dynamics of nations are often dictated by their military strategies and technological advancements rather than the geographic realities that define them. The assertion that the Air Force serves as a "hidden hand" emphasizes the role of air power in projecting influence and enforcing ideologies globally, ultimately allowing broader ideas to take precedence over local conditions and experiences.