• 4.3: The Future of the State

    • How We Get to Next: Corin Faife’s “The Rebirth of the City-State” Page

      Many scholars argue that the nation-state, as a political institution, is facing both threats “from below” and “from above.” This article explains how the city, as a political institution, may be poised to grow in power and independence. Many people also argue that the growing political power of national and ethnic groups (such as the recent referendum for independence in Scotland) represent this growing threat “from below” to the nation-state.

    • InTech: Abderrahman Hassi and Giovanna Storti’s “Globalization and Culture: The Three H Scenarios” File

      This article describes globalization as the increasing flows of “people, financial resources, goods, information, and culture.” As you read this article, consider the following questions:

      • How does globalization represent a threat “from above” to the traditional institution of the nation-state?
      • Do the growing influence of multilateral agencies and global governance erode state power? Why or why not?
      • What do you think are the cultural implications of globalization? How will this impact the power of the nation-state?