Module_2_-_The_State__1_

Max Weber's definition of the State

A human community that claims the monopoly of the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory.

Feudal Order

A social structure consisting of monarchs, vassals, and peasants, with power distributed among noblemen and regional centers.

Westphalian Sovereignty

The principle established by the Peace Treaties of Westphalia, asserting territorial integrity and political sovereignty of states.

Territorial Integrity

The principle that a state's borders should not be violated and that it has the right to control its own territory.

Political Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself and make laws without external interference.

State Capacity

The ability of a state to implement policies, maintain order, and provide services effectively.

Failed States

States that may have a government but fail to perform the basic functions expected of a state.

Non-State Insurgents

Groups such as Boko Haram that challenge the authority of the state and operate outside of state control.

Zomia

A region in Southeast Asia characterized by pre-state activities and resistance to state governance.

Resistance to the State

Efforts and movements aimed at evading or undermining the authority of established governmental structures.

Self-Determination

The right of a people to determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.

Corporate crime

Illegal acts performed by individuals or groups in a business context.

Autodefensas

Community defense groups that have emerged in Mexico in response to drug cartel violence.

Sinaloa Cartel

One of the most powerful drug trafficking organizations in Mexico known for its extensive influence.

State Behaviours Before Westphalia

Refers to the nature of state actions and governance prior to the establishment of the Westphalian sovereignty framework.

Colonialism

The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country and exploiting it economically.

Legitimacy

The right and acceptance of an authority, often applied to laws, government, and other hierarchical structures.

Bureaucracy

A system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives.

Seeing Like a State

A concept by James C. Scott describing how states understand and represent society, often simplistically.

Geography and the State

The influence that geographic factors (terrain, resources, borders) have on the formation and functioning of states.