Chapter 7: Governance

Questions #1: Explain why the “nation-state” is still a relevant concept today and provide examples.

Answer #1: A “nation-state” is state in which only one nation resides. Unlike the United States, where people from a variety of nations reside, a “nation-state” still has a preserved culture and language while still participating as an independent political actor. Similar to how people have adopted the misconception that globalization is new, inevitable, and a leveler, people also believe that the concept of a “nation-state” has officially ended in part due to globalization. The “nation-state” is still relevant today because most countries around the world still have national borders, armies, and passports. Even the political influence of other countries does not necessarily have a large impact on the government and political structure of the “nation-state”. Japan is a great example of a "nation-state" with its own unique language, cutlure, ethnicity, and even currency. While there are some outside influences, Japan is still a "nation-state" and proof that there has yet to be an end to the "nation-state".

Question #2: What are some benefits of working with businesses as an NGO? What are some drawbacks?

Answer #2: Non-governmental organizations are organizations that operate independent of any government or business. They usually operate on a non-profit basis and work for humanitarian, religious, or cultural issues. NGOs have increasingly been gaining influence in various governments around the world in regards to human rights issues. While NGOs do not directly associate with businesses, BINGOs, or business-friendly international non-governmental organizations, operate closely with businesses. This can be beneficial for the NGOs because it gives them more leverage with governments. If the NGO is working closely with a business that makes large contributions to the economy, the government has more incentive to cooperate with the NGO. However, working with a business may have some negative drawbacks. NGOs have a certain freedom not being tied to a government or business. Working with a business may restrict the ability of the NGO and which issues it can advocate for.

Question #3: Why does the United States have such an exceptional influence over the two international financial institutions (the World Bank and IMF)?

Answer #3: After World War II, the United States had much more influence over the global community and economy and Western Europe was in recovery. The Bretton Woods Conference was held in 1944 in the United States. This is where the World Bank and International Monetary Fund were created. Due to the United States financial stake in these IFIs, they were able to guarantee that they would have a large amount of influence on the IMF and World Bank while only having to jeopardize the minimum amount of their budget.

Questions #4: Why do Non-governmental organizations (NGO) play a