In the discipline of comparative politics, we explore how and why nations change, how and why governments compare to governments in different parts of the world, and patterns and irregularities among political systems. Before we can begin making these comparisons, we need to understand the basic unit of comparative political study: the nation-state.
Why do we need the nation-state? How does the concept of sovereignty tie into the history and characteristics of the state? How has the nation-state evolved since its origin in 1648? Is there an optimum form of state rule? And finally, is the modern nation state static or evolving in its form and function?
In Unit 2, we examine the history and thinking behind the modern nation state through the contributions of the philosophers Thomas Hobbes and Max Weber. We discuss how states developed, challenges to state sovereignty, and compare totalitarian and authoritarian forms of government.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.
Read these articles. What is the difference between a state and a nation? Compare and contrast the different political theories on the role of government in society.
Watch this lecture from 5:30 to 7:30. Make sure you are clear on the origins and date of the Treaty of Westphalia. Why is the Treaty of Westphalia considered the birth of nation-state system?
Make sure you are clear on how Hobbes' view of the human behavior is tied to the need for a strong, centralized power.
Read this short article. In his seminal essay "The Politics of Vocation", German sociologist Max Weber argues that the state is essentially a form of government in which, even when not at war, there is an implicit assumption that internal peace is maintained by the potential threat of violence by the police and government. Written in 1919, this essay informed Weber's opinions and reflected his experiences while living in war-torn Europe.
Read this article, where the author delves into greater detail on Weber's classic work. Pay particular attention to Weber's characteristics of politicians and views on bureaucracy. What role does he see them serving within a nation-state?
Read this article. International law is largely a creation of the modern state system. In recent years, however, the concept of sovereignty, a key component of nation-statehood, has been overshadowed by a variety of international actors and organizations on the world stage. How have states adapted (or not adapted) to this new state of affairs?
Read the short section on Dictatorship and Totalitarianism. Consider what makes a dictatorship different from a totalitarian government.
Read this article. What are the key characteristics of authoritarian regimes? How is totalitarianism distinguishable from authoritarianism? Do any of the authoritarian countries listed surprise you? Why or why not?
Read this article, which examines the methods utilized by political leaders to create and cultivate authoritarian regimes. What are the similarities and differences between Nicholas' and Putin's efforts to legitimize the primacy of the state over the individual?
Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.
Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.