THE FUTURE OF NATION-STATES: ANALYZING EVOLVING CHALLENGES IN A GLOBALIZED WORLD
Abstract
This research delves into the future of the nation-state by exploring the ideas of Ernest Renan and Clifford Geertz, especially concerning developing, post-colonial countries. The paper involves a textual analysis of different studies. Renan's 1882 essay, "What is a Nation?" offers a foundational idea and portrays the nation-state as a construct rooted in shared cultural heritage and collective history, rather than something inherent or eternal. His vision was of European nation-states built on democratic values and a diverse cultural fabric, shaped by the shared experiences and aspirations of their people. In contrast, Geertz, writing much later, critiques the applicability of Western nation-state models to post-colonial societies. Through his ethnographic work in countries like Indonesia and Morocco, he illustrates the challenges these states face in trying to align with Western concepts of sovereignty. Geertz argues that the idea of a centralized, cohesive sovereignty often does not fit these regions, where internal divisions and external pressures make national unity difficult to achieve. The paper suggests that Geertz's observations about post-colonial nation-states are particularly relevant today, especially for developing countries. These nations frequently grapple with compromised sovereignty due to external influences like international aid and global environmental policies. All of which disproportionately affect them despite their limited role in global issues such as climate change. Additionally, internal conflicts, whether ethnic, religious, or political, further strain the integrity of the nation-state in these areas. By examining aspects like the public sphere, international law, development, and social movements, the paper assesses how vulnerable the nation-state has become in a globalized world. It concludes that the future of the nation-state, particularly in the developing world, is increasingly uncertain as both internal and external challenges continue to mount.
Copyright Notice Submission of an article implies that the work described has not been published previously (except in the form of an abstract or as part of a published lecture or academic thesis), that it is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, that its publication is approved by all authors and tacitly or explicitly by the responsible authorities where the work was carried out, and that, if accepted, will not be published elsewhere in the same form, in English or in any other language, without the written consent of the Publisher. The Editors reserve the right to edit or otherwise alter all contributions, but authors will receive proofs for approval before publication. Copyrights for articles published in IJSSA journal are retained by the authors, with first publication rights granted to the journal. The journal/publisher is not responsible for subsequent uses of the work. It is the author’s responsibility to bring an infringement action if so desired by the author.
