Sovereignty: History and Theory by Raia Prokhovnik

Sovereignty is a fundamental concept in political science. It refers to the supreme authority of a state over its territory and its people. Sovereignty is essential for the functioning of a state as it allows the state to make laws, enforce laws, and resolve disputes. Without sovereignty, a state would be unable to maintain order and protect its citizens.

Sovereignty: History and Theory

by Raia Prokhovnik

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1503 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	250 pages
Paperback	:	150 pages
Item Weight	:	9.6 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.34 x 0.33 x 11.29 inches

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The history of sovereignty can be traced back to the ancient world. In ancient Greece, the city-state was the primary unit of political organization. Each city-state was sovereign and had its laws, army, and government. The idea of sovereignty was further developed by the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire was a vast and powerful state that controlled a large territory. The Roman emperor was the supreme authority in the empire and had the power to make laws, enforce laws, and declare war.

In the Middle Ages, the idea of sovereignty was further developed by the Catholic Church. The Catholic Church claimed to be the supreme authority in all matters of faith and morals. This claim was challenged by the Protestant Reformation. The Protestant Reformation led to the emergence of new states that were not under the control of the Catholic Church. These states claimed to be sovereign and had the right to make their laws and determine their own religion.

The modern concept of sovereignty emerged in the 16th century. The Peace of Westphalia (1648) ended the Thirty Years' War and established the principle of state sovereignty. The Peace of Westphalia recognized the right of each state to determine its own affairs without interference from other states. This principle of state sovereignty became the foundation of the modern international system.

Types of Sovereignty

There are two main types of sovereignty: internal sovereignty and external sovereignty. Internal sovereignty refers to the supreme authority of a state over its territory and its people. External sovereignty refers to the supreme authority of a state in its relations with other states. A state that is internally sovereign has the right to make laws, enforce laws, and resolve disputes within its territory. A state that is externally sovereign has the right to enter into treaties, declare war, and make peace with other states.

Challenges to Sovereignty

The concept of sovereignty is constantly being challenged. In the 19th century, the rise of industrialization and capitalism led to the growth of multinational corporations. Multinational corporations have the power to operate in multiple countries and can have a significant impact on the economies of those countries. This has led to concerns that multinational corporations are eroding the sovereignty of states.

In the 20th century, the rise of international organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union has also led to challenges to sovereignty. These organizations can make decisions that are binding on their member states. This has led to concerns that international organizations are infringing on the sovereignty of states.

The Future of Sovereignty

The future of sovereignty is uncertain. The concept of sovereignty is constantly being challenged and it is unclear how it will evolve in the future. However, it is clear that sovereignty is an essential concept for the functioning of a state. Without sovereignty, a state would be unable to maintain order and protect its citizens.

Sovereignty is a fundamental concept in political science. It refers to the supreme authority of a state over its territory and its people. Sovereignty is essential for the functioning of a state as it allows the state to make laws, enforce laws, and resolve disputes. The history of sovereignty can be traced back to the ancient world. The modern concept of sovereignty emerged in the 16th century. The concept of sovereignty is constantly being challenged. The future of sovereignty is uncertain.

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A picture of the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of sovereignty and freedom

Sovereignty: History and Theory

by Raia Prokhovnik

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1503 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	250 pages
Paperback	:	150 pages
Item Weight	:	9.6 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.34 x 0.33 x 11.29 inches

FREE