States and Nation-States

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture notes about states and nation-states, covering fundamental concepts, terms, and definitions relevant for exam preparation.

State

A controlled political entity with defined territory, permanent population, government, and international recognition.

Nation-State

A state whose political boundaries align with a cultural or ethnic group's national boundaries.

Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself or another state.

Treaty of Westphalia

A series of treaties that ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe and is considered a foundation for modern international law.

Absolutist State

A state where a single ruler has absolute power and authority.

Legitimacy

The right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or a regime.

Soft Power

The ability to attract and co-opt rather than coerce, using cultural or ideological means.

Hard Power

The use of coercive tactics such as military force to influence behavior.

Quasi-State

A political entity that has some characteristics of a state but lacks full authority and recognition.

Failed State

A state that cannot provide basic functions to its citizens such as security, governance, or economic stability.

Civic Nationalism

Nationalism based on shared political values and history rather than ethnic connections.

Ethnic Nationalism

Nationalism based on shared ancestry, cultural traditions, and language.

Colonial States

States formed through the colonization process which significantly influenced their post-independence impacts.

Public Investment

Government spending on projects and infrastructure that benefit the public.

Social Contract

The theory that a state's legitimacy arises from an agreement between rulers and the ruled.

De-colonization

The process of a colony gaining independence from colonial powers.

Globalization

The process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among countries, driven by trade, investment, and technology.

Non-State Actors

Entities that participate in international relations but are not subject to the formal authority of any state.

State Capacity

The ability of a state to accomplish its policy goals or effectively utilize power.

Internal Strength

A state's ability to maintain effective governance within its borders.

External Power

A state’s influence and strength in international affairs.

Nationalism

A political ideology that emphasizes the interests of a particular nation, often in opposition to foreign influence.

Dependency

A state of relying on external entities for economic support or political protection.

Legitimate Power

Power that is recognized as rightful or acceptable by those being governed.

Massive Public Goods Problem

An issue arising when multiple individuals would benefit from a certain good but have no incentive to pay for it individually.

Taxation

The system by which a government collects money from citizens to fund public services.

Foreign Investments

Investments made by a person or entity in one country in assets or businesses in another country.

MNCs

Multinational Corporations that operate in multiple countries, often influencing economies and politics.

IGOs

Intergovernmental Organizations which are formed by sovereign states to address common issues.

NGOs

Non-Governmental Organizations that operate independently from government, often focused on social and political issues.

Technology and State

The impact of technological advancement on state power and function, including communication and surveillance.

Social Media

Online platforms that enable users to create and share content or participate in social networking, influencing political discourse.