Nations, Nation-States,
and Internationalism
REALTED ISSUE 3
Chapter 9 Introduction
Does international involvement in
international affairs benefit nations
and nation-states? To what extent?
What motivates nations and nation-states to become
involved in international affairs? What are some
common motives?
• Psychologist believe that people’s behavior is
motivated by
– Needs- things that people need to survive
and
– Wants- things that people desire. Wants are not
necessary to survive
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Needs and Motives of Successful
Nation-States
• The behavior of nations and nation-states is
motivates by the collective needs and wants
of the countries people.
• The actions of responsible government serve
the national interest.
• Many successful nation-states, especially
those with democratic governments, are
motivated to achieve and maintain
–Economic stability
–Peace and security
–Self-determination
–Humanitarianism
Economic Stability
Nations and nation-states serve their national interests by seeking ways
to achieve economic stability.
For example- A national government might decide to provide more
money for training apprentices in skilled trades. By creating a more
skilled workforce, the government will attract more industries to the
country, which will generate more job opportunities.
National government might also develop trade policies that support
exports. Strong exports help keep employment levels high.
Positive Effects of Increasing Exports
PEOPLE
WITH MORE
MONEY TO
SPEND
MORE JOBS
MORE
GOODS &
SERVICES
PURCHASED
INCREASED
DEMAND
Peace & Security
• Nations & nation-states often promote safety &
security by passing laws, creating police forces,
and making rules for the workplace. They also
provide security through their interaction with the
rest of the world.
• Most national states are motivated to develop
peaceful relations with the rest of the world, as
well as, create alliances with one or more
countries to protect themselves against conflict.
Example: NATO & NORAD
Self-Determination
• Nations and nation-states are strongly motivated to
control their own future. They may do this by
seeking sovereignty
– In the 1800s many Canadians wanted to determine their
own future & become independent of Britain
• Other nations decide their interests can be served
best if they are part of a larger nation-state
– Since the creation of Nunavut in 1999, Inuit peoples in
Canada have controlled many aspects of their destiny in
Canada- land resources, education & government
Humanitarianism
• Nations & nation-states are also motivated
to take action to relieve suffering and
protect the innocent.
• This motivation is called humanitarianismacting to support the dignity and wellbeing of all people.
• Humanitarian efforts also extend beyond
Canada’s national borders- natural
disasters, disease, war & conflict can cause
tremendous suffering.