FRACTURING NATION-STATES

Jeffrey Morton
Lifelong Learning Society Distinguished Professor of Current Affairs 2005-2008
Recipient of the LLS 2002 Excellence in Teaching Award

DESCRIPTION: The nation-state has been the cornerstone of world politics since the modern era began more than 500 years ago. Sovereign states interacting with one another on matters of trade, war, and diplomacy characterize global affairs. Since the Cold War’s end, however, a fracturing process has been underway that has resulted in scores of newly-independent states. Will the phenomenon continue? If so, what are its implications for world politics and American foreign policy? In this special, one-time lecture, Professor Morton will review the recent trend towards more states and will analyze the independence bids of several entities that aspire to become bona fide nation-states. Those states considered in this lecture will include, among others, Kosovo, the Kurds, Uygher Muslims in western China, the Palestinians, and Scotland.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Dr. Jeffrey S. Morton received his Master’s degree from Rutgers University and his Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina, specializing in International Relations. He is Professor of International Law in the Department of Political Science and is the author of three books and numerous journal articles. Since 1994, he has taught international relations courses at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Recipient of the prestigious Foreign Policy Association Medal, Dr. Morton is Director of the FAU Diplomacy Program.