8. Political Processes, Boundaries, and Geopolitics Free Online FlashCards

What four features define a state?

A state is a politically organized territory with a permanent population, a government, defined boundaries, and sovereignty.

What is a geometric boundary?

A geometric boundary follows a straight line or arc based on latitude, longitude, or surveyed coordinates.

What does it mean for a boundary to be delimited?

A boundary is delimited when it exists legally but has not yet been physically marked on the ground.

What is the purpose of uti possidetis juris?

Uti possidetis juris preserves inherited administrative boundaries when colonies become independent states, helping reduce territorial wars after decolonization.

How does a unitary system distribute authority?

In a unitary system, the national government holds primary constitutional authority and generally grants or regulates local powers.

What is devolution?

Devolution is the transfer of powers from a central government to regional or local governments.

What is gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is the deliberate manipulation of electoral district boundaries to advantage a political party or group.

What is a supranational organization?

A supranational organization is an association in which member states delegate some authority to common institutions that can make decisions affecting them.

What does geopolitics study?

Geopolitics studies how location, territory, resources, technology, and physical geography influence state power and foreign-policy decisions.

What is a territorial conflict?

A territorial conflict is a disagreement over the ownership, control, or use of a geographic area.

What rights apply in an exclusive economic zone?

In an EEZ, a coastal state has specified rights over natural resources and certain economic activities, while other states retain freedoms such as navigation and overflight.

What are the core principles of United Nations peacekeeping?

United Nations peacekeeping is based on consent of the parties, impartiality, and limited use of force except in self-defense or defense of the mandate.