Global Identification

   There is a political culture in every country and that culture affects the foreign policy of the country. Some suggest that the world would be better served if all inhabitants thought of themselves as citizens of the world, not a defined state. Do you agree or disagree? Why do you agree/disagree? Is it possible for states to pursue global interests and national (of the state) interest at the same time? Explain your position.

The following is my response to this prompt: 

   I do agree with the notion that if all of earth's inhabitants saw themselves first as human beings rather than citizens of a state, we would have a more functional and a less violent global society. People and Governments when enacting policy would first think of the interests of everyone rather then purely their interests. It is quite a desirable thought, however that doesn’t mean that I think it is either practical or achievable in this day and age.

   We as humans are still very primitive when it comes to self-identification. A lot of the world identifies themselves religiously. (Central Intelligence Agency, 2013). Which for better or for worse is a factor when it comes to worldwide cohesion. Throughout history we have had numerous religious wars and conflicts. And unfortunately in the future we are bound to have many more. That is where we are as a race. So the fact of the matter is that we aren’t ready to identify ourselves as human before anything else.

   I do believe it is possible for states to pursue their own interests as well as the interests of the global society. As an example of this let’s take a look at the subject of climate change. A state could for their own interests enact a carbon tax to curb greenhouse gas emissions. They in doing this are also acting in the world’s interest by help to slow climate change. So it is possible. However I believe that for a state to act in the interest of the globe the policy firstly must also be in its own interest.

   I believe that the only answer the global cohesion is education and time. Through these two forces we can slowly mold a more peaceful and truly human society.

Works Cited:

Central Intelligence Agency. (2013). The World Factbook page on Religions. Retrieved from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2122.htmt