2 States, Sovereignty, and Power Free Online FlashCards

What is a state?

A state is a political organization that governs a population within a territory and acts independently in relations with other states.

What four criteria does the Montevideo Convention use to describe a state?

The Montevideo Convention lists a permanent population, defined territory, government, and capacity to enter into relations with other states.

How does a nation differ from a state?

A nation is a community with a shared sense of identity, often tied to history, language, or culture. A state is a political organization governing a population and territory.

What is a nation-state?

A nation-state is a state whose political boundaries and national identity substantially overlap.

What does sovereignty mean?

Sovereignty is a state's claim to supreme political authority within its territory and independence from external control.

What are sovereignty's internal and external dimensions?

Internal sovereignty concerns governing people and institutions at home; external sovereignty concerns legal independence and relations with other states.

Does sovereign equality mean states have equal practical power?

Sovereign equality is a principle of legal equality, not equality in resources, capabilities, or influence.

Do treaty obligations automatically end a state's sovereignty?

Treaty obligations can constrain a state's choices without automatically ending its sovereignty.

What are a state's national interests?

National interests are the goals a state's leaders pursue in external affairs.

What are four commonly cited national interests?

Commonly cited interests include protecting the population and territory, preserving political independence, supporting economic well-being, and maintaining influence.

What is power in world politics?

Power is the ability to shape outcomes by influencing what other actors do or what happens in a situation.

How can different sources of state power influence others?

Military capabilities can deter or defeat attacks; economic resources can support defense or bargaining; diplomatic, technological, and cultural influence can attract cooperation or shape preferences.