The state is faced with a wide array of threats ranging from privatization
to localization. Proponents of the state have argued that the biggest threat to
state sovereignty and the concept of the state itself is globalization.
By definition, “a state is a political association that exercises
sovereign jurisdiction within defined territorial borders." The above
definition can be divided into two parts, firstly how the state exercises
sovereign jurisdiction and secondly about defined territorial borders.
The latter part of the definition has come to be eroded by the
process of globalization. It can be termed “deterritortialization”. The process
of deterritorialization has blurred the boundaries of many countries and even
otherwise the afore mentioned definition of the state can be problematic for
countries such as Pakistan where boundary lines are still disputed over. A
primary example of this is the Afghanistan boundary known as the Durand Line.
Globalization as the name suggests merges the world together
rather than isolating them as the state does. However, is this beneficial? The
benefits of globalization are often taken for granted. The sharing of ideas and
the technology through which we access knowledge is an everyday part of a student’s
life. However changing the previous question from “is it beneficial” to “who is
it beneficial to?” sheds light on the negative consequences of globalization.
Naturally, the way one sees a state will reflect on ones opinion
of globalization as they have what I like to call an inverse relationship. If
the state is seen to be suffocating and exploitative than globalization will be
seen as an enlightening force.
However, globalization has been blamed to destroy the culture or what many call the soul of the nation. Therefore individuals are left in a situation where they must choose between two evils. Which one will you choose?
However, globalization has been blamed to destroy the culture or what many call the soul of the nation. Therefore individuals are left in a situation where they must choose between two evils. Which one will you choose?
2 comments:
Globalization refers to the process of international integration arising from the interchange of world views, products, ideas and other aspects of culture. The state, however, covers a much wider realm through which it covers every aspect of the lives of the people of the state. Instead of destroying culture then, in this regard, globalization can prove to be highly beneficial with a healthy exchange of different views that can be amalgamated with those that the state already possesses.
I like your final question and I'm glad that you've highlighted the pros and cons of embracing globalization. However, I'm more interested in finding out your answer to the final question you pose. Do you think globalization is good, bad, or somewhere in between for the state?
From my perspective, I think that the many benefits that exist because of globalization come at a high cost. However, I don't think these costs are borne by the state per se. Instead, I think these costs come in the form of changes in culture, society and norms. Globalization has led to the creation of a global network of ideas that have a strong impact and influence on the way people think, act, and behave in every corner of world. It is a process that appears to be growing and how it evolves will impact societies and states in a profound way during the 21st century.
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