1985 - Professor Inis L. Claude, Jr. - Myths about the state

In this lecture Professor Inis Claude, Jr. discussed seven myths concerning how people conceptualise states. The first, the ‘peas in a pod’ myth, is where states are seen as essentially equal units. The second, the ‘solid state’ myth, is where states seen to be marked by internal solidarity and consensus. The third, the ‘monolithic government’ myth, occurs when states are conceptualised as having institutional unity. The fourth, or the ‘almighty state’ myth, occurs when the state is seen as an omnipotent entity who can wield power to oppress or destroy, and is therefore the most important threat to humane values. The fifth, or the ‘bloodthirsty state’ myth, happens when people become over-concerned with the ability of states to make war with the assumption that military potential leads directly to a propensity to war. The sixth, or the ‘immoral state’ myth, happens when people see international life as totally selfish and irresponsible. The last, or the ‘outmoded state’ myth, describes when people believe the state is obsolete or rapidly becoming so.