Idea of Civilization and the Making of the Global Order

The concept of civilization is frequently discussed in international politics, but Norbert Eliass's On the Process of Civilization has been overlooked in academic writings on International Relations. This book explores the significance of Eliass's insights for understanding the world order and the European civilizing process, highlighting the interdependencies between state-formation, colonialism, and international society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 18 November 2020
Publisher: Bristol University Press

The concept of civilization is a recurring theme in discussions of international politics. However, in the realm of International Relations, academic writings on civilization have overlooked a significant 20th-century analysis by Norbert Eliass titled "On the Process of Civilization." This book offers a comprehensive examination of the relevance of Eliass's insights on civilization to International Relations. It delves into the workings of an Eliasian, or process-sociological, approach to civilization and the global order, highlighting how the interconnectedness of state formation, colonialism, and the emergence of an international society played a pivotal role in shaping the European civilizing process.

State formation, as Eliass argues, is a crucial aspect of the civilizing process. He posits that states are not merely political entities but also social institutions that are responsible for organizing and regulating society. The formation of states, he suggests, is influenced by a variety of factors, including geography, history, culture, and economic development. For example, states that are located in fertile agricultural regions or have access to valuable natural resources may be more likely to develop strong centralized governments and establish social hierarchies.

Colonialism, another key factor in the civilizing process, played a significant role in shaping the development of European societies. As European powers expanded their territories and colonized new regions, they brought with them their own cultural, economic, and political systems. These systems were often imposed on the indigenous populations, leading to the erosion of their traditional cultures and the creation of new social hierarchies.

The emergence of an international society, characterized by increased interdependence and cooperation among states, also played a crucial role in shaping the European civilizing process. As states began to interact with each other on a global scale, they were forced to confront common challenges such as trade, security, and environmental degradation. This led to the development of international institutions such as the United Nations and the World Bank, which were designed to promote cooperation and address these challenges.

In conclusion, Norbert Eliass's "On the Process of Civilization" provides a valuable contribution to the study of International Relations. By examining the processes through which Europeans came to regard themselves as uniquely civilized, Eliass offers insights into the workings of an Eliasian, or process-sociological, approach to civilization and the global order. His analysis highlights the interconnectedness of state formation, colonialism, and the emergence of an international society in shaping the European civilizing process and provides valuable lessons for understanding the contemporary world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529213874