Hegemony refers to the dominance or leadership of one entity over others. This concept is frequently used in political and cultural contexts. In international relations, it describes the influence or control of one country or state over others, often through economic, military, or diplomatic means. Culturally, hegemony can refer to the pervasive influence of a dominant culture, ideology, or set of beliefs within a society, shaping norms, values, and perceptions in a way that maintains the status quo. The term was popularized by the Italian Marxist philosopher Antonio Gramsci, who used it to discuss how the ruling class maintains control not just through force, but also by shaping cultural and ideological norms.