Geopolitical Concepts and Theories Notes

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I. Nation

• Definition: A nation is a large aggregate of people unified by common descent, history, culture, or language, inhabiting a specific country or territory.

• Origin of Term: The term "nation" derives from the verb ‘to be born’, indicating a familial aspect.

• Examples:

  • Afghanistan: One of the most impoverished nations in the world.

  • United States: One of the richest nations in the world.

II. State

• Definition: A state is a self-governing political entity synonymous with "country".

• Characteristics of a State:

  • Defined territory with internationally recognized boundaries.

  • A permanent population.

  • Economic activity and an organized economy.

  • Social engineering capabilities (education, healthcare, etc.).

  • A transportation system for goods and people.

  • A governing body that provides public services and upholds laws.

  • Sovereignty and external recognition.

• Current Number of States: 196 independent countries exist globally.

• Example: Taiwan, while meeting the criteria for statehood, isn't recognized due to political reasons but should be considered independent.

• Examples of States: Belgium, Cambodia, and Algeria.

III. Nation-State

• Definition: A nation-state is a political union of one or more nationalities, establishing a cohesive society.

• Functions:

  • Determines official languages.

  • Manages legal systems and currency.

  • Operates bureaucracy and promotes national loyalty.

• Implications of Growth: The increase in nation-states leads to new political, economic, and social realities, bringing opportunities and challenges for global governance.

• Examples:

  • France, Egypt, Germany, and Japan are examples of nation-states.

  • Canada and Belgium represent states with dual nations, while the U.S. is a multicultural nation-state united by shared American culture.

IV. Stateless Nation

• Definition: A stateless nation consists of a minority ethnic group with aspirations for independence and self-governance but lacking an official state.

• Conflict Potential: Stateless nations can provoke conflicts; notable examples include the Kurds in Southwest Asia and the Gypsies/Romanies in Eastern Europe.

• Ethnic Population Breakdown:

  • Dark Yellow: 85% and above.

  • Yellow: 65-84%.

  • Light Yellow: 64% and below.

  • Blue: Traditional ethnic categories do not apply.

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Geopolitical Theories

Heartland Theory

• Origin: Created by geographer Halford Mackinder in 1919.

• Core Concept: The key to world power lies in the Eastern Eurasian landmass (“Heartland”). Control over this area enables dominion over the surrounding regions and ultimately the world.

• Key Statement: "Who rules East Europe commands the Heartland. Who rules the Heartland commands the World Island. Who rules the World Island commands the world."

Rimland Theory

• Origin: Developed by Nicholas Spykman in 1944.

• Core Concept: Contrary to Mackinder, Spykman asserts that world control is centered around the Rimland, the outer areas surrounding Eurasia. By controlling these regions, one can influence the interior and eventually gain power over the Heartland.

World Systems Theory

• Origin: Introduced by Immanuel Wallerstein.

• Classification of Countries:

  • Core: More developed, economically dominant nations.

  • Periphery: Less developed countries with lower social standing and minimal technological advancement.

  • Semi-Periphery: Countries that serve as intermediaries to balance power between core and periphery, preventing extreme polarization in the world economy.

• Overall Concept: This theory outlines the complex nature of global capitalism and the influence of core countries over weaker states.

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Human Territoriality - Gerrymandering

Definition

• Human Territoriality: Efforts by societies to control and influence events and goals by managing geographical areas.

• Types of Territory:

  • Primary: Exclusively used by an individual or group (e.g., a family home).

  • Secondary: Regularly used but shared (e.g., favorite class seat).

  • Tertiary: Publicly accessible areas (e.g., parks).

Gerrymandering

• Definition: The practice of manipulating the boundaries of voting districts to favor one political party, diluting opposition voters' strength.

• Historical Context: Coined after Elbridge Gerry's 1812 redistricting in Massachusetts, resulting in oddly-shaped districts resembling a salamander.

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State Shapes

Types of State Shapes

1. Compact State

   • Ideal shape, small size.

   • Advantages: Ease of navigation due to centralized capital.

   • Disadvantages: Vulnerable to invasion; may lack resources.

   • Example: Switzerland.

2. Fragmented State

   • State comprises multiple disconnected parts (e.g., islands).

   • Advantages: Access to varied resources and climates.

   • Disadvantages: Communication challenges; parts may be neglected.

   • Examples: Philippines, Indonesia.

3. Elongated State

   • Structure longer than it is wide.

   • Advantages: Access to diverse climates and resources.

   • Disadvantages: Potential lack of unity and communication hurdles.

   • Examples: Chile, Sweden.

4. Prorupt State

   • Features a protrusion extending from its main u

   • Advantages: Different resources and climates accessible.

   • Disadvantages: Communication difficulties and risk of neglect of some areas.

   • Examples: India, Thailand.

5. Perforated State

   • Contains an entirely enclosed state.

   • Advantages: Easier takeover for perforating state; can foster economic ties.

   • Disadvantages: May lead to conflict and inefficiency.

   • Examples: South Africa, Italy.

Capitals

• Capital cities are often strategically positioned in populous areas and embody state identity. Forward capitals are relocated capitals (e.g., Brasília, Islamabad).

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Balkanization

• Definition: The process of dividing a larger state into smaller regions, often due to ethnic conflicts.

• Historical Context: The break-up of Yugoslavia post-1980 illustrates how ethnic differences led to fragmentation.

Centripetal vs. Centrifugal Forces

• Centripetal Forces: Factors that unify a nation's population (e.g., shared culture, strong leadership).

• Centrifugal Forces: Factors that divide a population (e.g., nationalism, internal dissent).

Example of Centripetal Force**:

• Shared sports teams, history, and identity can unify people, as seen in pre-1980 Yugoslavia under Tito’s leadership.

Example of Centrifugal Force**:

• India's 1947 independence, which transitioned power from Britain to India's own governance, exemplifying devolution of authority.