The Temptation of State Power

The Potency of States

• States, especially those with modern power structures, possess immense power, capable of dominating citizens and even foreign entities beyond the scope of legitimate authority.
• Those wielding state power often face the temptation to abuse this capacity, particularly in a multinational world where national sovereignty allows countries to evade domination by others to some extent.

International Recourse for Governmental Criticism

• Critics of a government in one country (e.g., country A) may find refuge in another (e.g., country B), escaping potential retribution for their sanctioned opinions.

Historical Example: Left-Wing Critics in 1950s America

• During the McCarthy era in the 1950s, left-wing critics of the American government experienced harassment.
• W.B. Defoe, was prosecuted (although unsuccessfully) for being an unregistered foreign agent.
• Defoe found support during this period from individuals within and outside the United States, including figures like Albert Einstein.

Global Awareness as a Check on Abusive Power

• Defoe's trial included letters of support from various countries, including China, Russia, Israel, New Zealand, Germany, and French North Africa.
• The awareness of global scrutiny significantly influenced the development of U.S. policies regarding civil rights and racial justice.
• American racism negatively impacted the country's reputation during its ideological conflict with the Soviet Union and the Communist world.

International Engagement for Rights Protection

• External engagement can ensure the state respects the rights of its citizens, increasing the likelihood of escaping governmental abuse.
• Therefore, there is a shared reason to support a system that facilitates this effect.