War, Survival Units, and Citizenship: A Neo-Eliasian Processual-Relational Perspective

The author of this book proposes a new theory of state formation based on a rethinking of the nexus between war, state, and citizenship. He suggests an alternative theoretical-methodological framework based on German relational theory and provides a political, historical, and sociological comparative analysis of the relation between war, state, and citizenship in France, England, and Germany from the Middle Ages to the mid-17th century. The book also addresses two puzzles in social theory: why the world is divided into multiple units and how this divided world is maintained. The issues discussed in the book are central to political and historical sociology and will be of interest to scholars and students working in these fields.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In this groundbreaking work, the author presents a novel theory of state formation by reexamining the interplay between war, state, and citizenship. By exploring and presenting alternative state-society and state theories, the author aims to transcend the explanations offered by traditional approaches. This book delves into a critical discussion of the concept of the state and society in social and political theory, proposing an alternative theoretical framework rooted in German relational theory, including the works of Hegel, Clausewitz, Carl Schmitt, and Norbert Elias.

Drawing upon the concepts of survival unit and figuration, the book conducts a political, historical, and sociological comparative analysis of the relationship between war, state, and citizenship in France, England, and Germany from the Middle Ages to the mid-17th century, with a particular focus on the 16th and 17th centuries. Additionally, the book addresses two intriguing puzzles in social theory. Firstly, it explores the question of why the world is divided into multiple units, questioning whether this division will persist or give way to a single world state in the future. Secondly, it examines the mechanisms behind the maintenance of this divided world, exploring what distinguishes states and how these boundaries are upheld.

The issues addressed in this book hold significant importance in political and historical sociology, attracting the attention of scholars and students engaged in these fields as well as those in political science, IR, social theory, and history. The author's innovative perspective and comprehensive analysis make this work a valuable contribution to the literature on state formation and global dynamics.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367560959