Organisation of state power in global politics
Syllabus extract
1.2.1 Defining nations, states, nation-states, multi-nation states, stateless nations, micronations...
1.2.2 A brief history of sovereignty
Thomas Hobbes briefly explained.
Whilst the narrative of the Treaty of Westphalia and sovereignty is deeply embedded across global politics, it is really important to consider counter arguments in your essays. The reading 'How 'Westphalian' is the Westphalian Model' breaks down flaws in the traditional narrative and the reading by Ilyas Ahmad challenges Western bias in the history of sovereignty.
1.2.3 The present- day concept of sovereignty (and rule of law)
1.2.4 Challenges to sovereignty
Case study also links to Peace and Conflict unit.
1.2.5 What is legitimacy?
1.2.6 Simulation of governance types
1.2.7 Applying power, sovereignty and legitimacy to a case study
Example 25 mark essay questions:
Examine the claim that state sovereignty is challenged by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and other non-state actors (NSAs). (Nov 2017)
Using two examples, evaluate how environmental factors influence state sovereignty. (May 2021)
Discuss reasons why the legitimacy of a state may need to be questioned. (May 2017)