Regie T.

Gobris

BS.CRIMINOLOGY (block B)

Introduction :

The global interstate system is a concept used within world-systems theory to describe the
system of state relationships that arose either as a concomitant process or as a consequence of
the development of the capitalist world-system over the course of the “long” 16th century. The
theory of the interstate system holds that all states are defined through their relationship to
other states or through participation in the world economy, and that divisions between states
help to divide the world into a core, periphery and semi-periphery.

Summary:

The global interstate system is based on the ideology of sovereign equality, which means
that states are independent and govern themselves, and interact with each other through
diplomacy. However, in reality, states are neither sovereign nor equal, as they are subject to
the rules and constraints of the world-economy, which favors the core states over the
peripheral and semi-peripheral ones. The core states are those that have a high degree of
industrialization, technological innovation, and economic diversification, while the peripheral
and semi-peripheral states are those that depend on exporting raw materials, agricultural
products, or cheap labor to the core. The core states also have more political and military
power, and can intervene in the affairs of weaker states to maintain their dominance and
interests.

The global interstate system has evolved over time, as different hegemons have emerged
and declined, such as the United Provinces, Britain, and the United States. The system has also
faced challenges from various social movements, such as nationalism, anti-colonialism,
communism, and environmentalism, which have questioned the legitimacy and sustainability of
the capitalist world-economy. Moreover, the system has been affected by globalization, which
has increased the interdependence and interconnectedness of states, as well as the emergence
of new actors and issues, such as transnational corporations, non-governmental organizations,
terrorism, human rights, and climate change. These factors have created new opportunities and
challenges for global governance, which is the collective management of common problems at
the global level.

Conclusion:
 The global interstate system is a complex and dynamic phenomenon that shapes and is
shaped by the economic, political, social, and cultural aspects of human interactions. The
system has both advantages and disadvantages for different groups of people and regions of
the world. The system also faces various uncertainties and risks in the 21st century, which
require more cooperation and coordination among states and other stakeholders to address
them effectively.