November 27, Slides 6 Flashcards
What is sovereignty in relation to states?
Sovereignty is the authority of a state to govern itself or others, embodying the concentration of human power to create and enforce laws. It answers the question: “Whose word is the law?”
How is the rule of law connected to sovereignty?
The rule of law is created by the practice of sovereignty, which exists outside the law itself. Sovereignty legitimizes the creation of laws and establishes their authority.
What processes contribute to the creation of states?
States are created through coercion, alliances, economic consolidation, and institutional frameworks. Historical processes like war-making, resource extraction, and cultural homogenization play crucial roles.
Why is the “state of nature” an inadequate explanation for state formation?
The “state of nature” is a theoretical construct and does not reflect the actual historical processes of state formation. States emerged through complex interactions of power, conflict, and cooperation, not from agreements among free individuals.
When did the first states emerge?
The first states appeared approximately 5,000–6,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. These early states centralized authority to manage resources, trade, and defense.
When did states become universalized?
States became universalized in the 17th century with the Treaty of Westphalia (1648), which established the principle of state sovereignty. This treaty marked the beginning of the modern international system of states.
What is the significance of the Treaty of Westphalia (1648)?
The treaty ended the Thirty Years’ War and introduced the principle of state sovereignty. It established that states have exclusive authority over their territories and should not interfere in each other’s internal affairs.
How did the Treaty of Westphalia change the global system?
The treaty laid the foundation for the modern nation-state system, promoting territorial integrity and non-interference. It universalized the concept of statehood and sovereignty.
Why are states considered the most concentrated form of human power?
States centralize authority to make and enforce laws, control resources, and manage large populations. This concentration of power enables them to organize society on a large scale, unlike any other institution.
Are states a permanent fixture of human existence?
No, states are a relatively recent development in human history and are not permanent. They emerged around 5,000–6,000 years ago and have evolved significantly, particularly since the 17th century.
