STATE, IDENTITY AND SECURITY: A THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE

Outline

1. Introduction
2. Definition and Understanding Theory: Realistic and Neo-realistic Paradigm
3. The Concept of State as Political Entity
4. Securitisation or Desecuritisation: Copenhegen School
5. Emancipation Approach
6. Security Trap
7. Exceptionalism and Security
8. Conclusion

STATE, IDENTITY AND SECURITY: A THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE

Author: Narottam Gaan

DOI Link: https://www.doi.org/10.56888/BIISSj2016v37n1a5

ABSTRACT

In the traditional concept, state has been central to security. Search for survival, identity and security has been embedded in the state. Security of state has been synonymous with that of the people. In anarchical international system, the states being in a situation of self help, security dilemma strives for more security in order to secure what has been considered as security. This is because the security that a state has always seems to be inadequate. The sources of security threats as well as the provider of security remain with the state. With the emergence of other non-state sources of security threats, the adequacy of states as provider of security has been challenged by critical theories like Copenhagen and other widening schools of thought. The Westphalian preoccupation of international relations with statist approach is overdrawn. Upon the failure of these schools to provide any alternative to state, the state retains it being the largest collective organisation for universal purpose of security.

BANGLADESH INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL AND STRATEGIC STUDIES

Outline