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State Formation, Nationalism and Conflict
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:43
Abstract
Introduction to theories of state formation, nationalism and post-nationalist processes. The seminar focuses on how these macro-historical processes have been conceptualized and evaluated in both the qualitative and quantitative empirical literature.
Objective
Participants will gain an overview of the most prominent theories of historical state formation highlighting geography, economic factors as well as interstate competition and warfare. Special emphasis is placed on how the onset of nationalist ideologies in the late 18th century transformed trajectories of state formation, death, and (dis)integration and what lessons can be learned beyond historical Europe. In addition to the classical theoretical and historical literature, we will discuss more recent attempts to study these questions using the quantitative toolkit of the modern social sciences. One learning goal is to familiarize students with novel data sources and methodological approaches to systematically study the macro-political processes of state formation and nation building.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DR , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 12
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| seminar | State Formation, Nationalism and Conflict |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
-
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Doctoral Department of Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )