IR 212 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Joseph Schumpeter
15 Oct 2016
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Document Summary
Processes leading to the centralization of power within a well- defined territory. Modern state system from 1648 = princes push aside church and empire pretensions, centralize power + gain international legal sovereignty. International sovereignty recently has been granted prior to full state formation (quasi state) Fluid boundaries nobles owe fealty to kings of france, spain, holy roman emperor, no enforcement mechanism. Church and secular rulers contest over same territories taxes vs tithes, secular law vs canon law, noble lands vs church lands, wars and crusades. Holy roman empire, one secular ruler under one church ruler. Put interests of the state over the church/religion. The religion of the prince is the religion of the state. Primary duty of state is its own self-defense. Interests of states conflict with interests of others. Best interest of all states to find equilibrium, or balance of power. Fluid boundaries, christian moralism as basis for policy, ultimate goal: universal state.
