Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The state-centric worldview, dominant in International Relations (IR) for centuries, posits the state as the primary and most important actor in the international system. Rooted in the Peace of Westphalia (1648), which established the principle of state sovereignty, this perspective views international politics as a realm of interactions *between* states, rather than a complex interplay of diverse actors. While challenged by globalization and the rise of non-state actors, the state remains a central organizing principle in global affairs, shaping security dynamics, economic interactions, and diplomatic strategies. Understanding its core principles is vital for comprehending the contours of contemporary international politics.
Core Principles of the State-Centric Worldview
The state-centric worldview rests on several key principles:
1. Sovereignty
Sovereignty, the supreme authority within a territory, is the cornerstone of the state-centric view. It implies both internal authority (over its citizens and institutions) and external independence (freedom from external interference). The UN Charter (1945) reinforces this principle, emphasizing the sovereign equality of all its members. However, the concept of absolute sovereignty has been increasingly questioned due to humanitarian interventions and the rise of international law.
- Example: Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 was widely condemned as a violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty, highlighting the ongoing tension between state interests and international norms.
2. National Interest
States are assumed to act rationally in pursuit of their national interest – a broad concept encompassing security, economic prosperity, and ideological goals. Realist scholars, like Hans Morgenthau, argue that national interest, defined in terms of power, is the primary driver of state behavior.
- Example: China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is often interpreted as a strategic effort to expand its economic and political influence, serving its national interest in securing access to resources and markets.
3. Power Politics
The state-centric view emphasizes the importance of power in international relations. States are constantly engaged in a struggle for power, seeking to maximize their influence and security. This can manifest in military strength, economic dominance, or diplomatic leverage.
- Example: The Cold War (1947-1991) was a prime example of power politics, characterized by an intense rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union for global dominance.
4. Balance of Power
To prevent any single state from becoming too dominant, the state-centric worldview often relies on the concept of the balance of power. This involves alliances and counter-alliances designed to maintain a distribution of power that discourages aggression.
- Example: NATO’s formation in 1949 was a direct response to the perceived threat from the Soviet Union, representing an attempt to balance power in Europe.
5. Security Dilemma
A key implication of the state-centric view is the security dilemma, where one state’s efforts to enhance its security can be perceived as threatening by other states, leading to an arms race and increased instability.
- Example: India and Pakistan’s nuclear arms race exemplifies the security dilemma, as each country’s nuclear development is seen as a response to the other’s capabilities.
Critiques of the State-Centric View
Despite its enduring influence, the state-centric worldview has faced criticism. Globalization, the rise of non-state actors (like multinational corporations and NGOs), and transnational issues (like climate change and pandemics) challenge the notion that states are the sole or even primary actors in international politics. Furthermore, constructivist perspectives argue that state interests are not fixed but are socially constructed through interactions and norms.
Conclusion
The state-centric worldview remains a powerful framework for understanding international relations, emphasizing the enduring importance of states and their pursuit of national interests. However, its limitations are increasingly apparent in a globalized world characterized by complex interdependencies and the growing influence of non-state actors. A comprehensive understanding of international politics requires acknowledging the state’s central role while also recognizing the significance of other actors and forces shaping the global landscape. The future of international relations will likely involve a continued negotiation between state-centric and more pluralistic perspectives.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.