• Unit 2: The Nation-State

    As introduced in Unit 1, comparative politics enables us to understand how and why nations change, how and why governments in a particular part of the world compare to governments in a different part of the world, and other patterns and regularities between political systems.  Before we can begin our work as comparatists, however, we need to learn about the basic unit of comparative political study: the state (or nation-state). In Unit 2, we first examine the history and thinking behind the modern nation state through the contributions of Hobbes and Weber. We will then discuss how states developed in our modern world, challenges to state sovereignty, and compare totalitarian and authoritarian forms of the state. 

    As you read through Unit 2, reflect on the following questions. Why do we have or 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?

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.

    • 2.1: The State

    • 2.2: The Modern State System

    • 2.3: Non-Democratic State Forms

    • Unit 2 Assessment

      • Unit 2 Multiple Choice Assessment Quiz

        Please take this assessment to check your understanding of the materials presented in this unit.

        Notes:

        • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
        • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
        • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.
      • Unit 2 Short Answer Assessment Quiz

        Please take this assessment to check your understanding of the materials presented in this unit.

        Notes:

        • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
        • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
        • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.