Along with the question of sovereignty comes the question of territoriality and how borders create a sense of individuality and separation of different political and economic systems. The way the world has been partitioned into separate, sovereign states forces other neighboring states to question whether or not it is, in essence, worthy of recognition. The Nation-State and Global Order by Walter Opello and Stephen Rosow notes that there are several characteristics that can be “recognized as the common currency of nation-states in the current global order” (Opello and Rosow 3). The fourth of those characteristics revolves specifically around the creation of borders, and how it is a fundamental property of nation-states to have “fixed boundaries marked on the ground by entry and exit points” (Opello and Rosow 3).
Because it is inherent to nation-states to partition themselves, it begs the question of necessity: the only way a nation-state can truly be recognized as self-sufficient and individual is if there is an actual society to maintain. Recognizing a nation-state as sovereign encompasses all the things discussed in class: autonomy, capacity, power, and authority. The only way societies can exist as independent entities is by creating separate spaces for them to function within; the Peace of Westphalia created a way that different nation-states could function alongside each other. Politically and economically, boundaries create a truly established system that allows for international coexistence, and without them- a globalized system with no boundaries would not provide nation-states with any opportunity to govern themselves as independent entities.
I completely agree with your post, Rebecca. I also think that your point about recognition is fascinating - that recognition by other nations is necessary to be a sovereign nation-state, but that proven sovereignty is necessary for recognition. It certainly creates a very complicated cycle.
ReplyDeleteIt is also interesting that you brought up a globalized system. What is your opinion of the United Nations, European Union, and other entities that transcend national sovereignty?
I think that the United Nations, as a peacekeeping organization, works effectively to bring nations together and work cooperatively to harness diplomatic ideas and create solutions on a global front. As for organizations like the European Union (which provide an arena for nations with similar needs and concerns), I believe that giving these nations the opportunity to speak so cooperatively offers an opportunity to bring to light certain issues that are deemed absolutely necessary. Ultimately, the nations participating maintain their sovereignty..and in some way, enforce it by participating on such an international level.
ReplyDelete