Self-Assessment 14

A. Reaction Paper Direction: Write your reaction paper in a short bond paper.
The issue of whether or not the nation-state is still relevant today in the era of
globalization has gained different reactions. Some scholars would argue that its
role in global politics is diminishing. On the other hand, others would say that it
still remains to be the primary actor in political affairs. In this activity, you
should be able to point out contending views about such issue through writing a
reaction paper
. 1. Student may be able to choose if what side of the issue she/he will be, may
it be affirmative side or the negative side.
2. The central issue would be: The state remains to be relevant amid the
processes and structures of globalization.

I will be on the affirmative side, i think Globalization has changed the role
of the state politically because of strengthened interstate relationships and
dependence on one another. States were created to be sovereign but now,
due to globalization, often give their sovereignty away to ‘pooling’ in
conventions, contracting, coercion and imposition. I believe states do lose
their sovereignty as a result of globalization and it is not only a matter of
policies of international organizations. All the international
interdependencies limit the scope of states' possible activities. In theory they
still may act independently, but as a result of globalization consequences of
"irresponsible" acts might be devastating. And I think states are losing their
sovereignty to some extent especially for some government policies that
have been included into the regional policies schemes. Accordingly,
sovereignty of state gives the highest authority to the state to arrange and
manage all of the domestic internal matters without interference from other
states or international organizations. States are independent in deciding
whatever the policies (economy, social, culture, and politics) for the benefits
of their people.