Quick Summary: A nation is a group of people bound together by shared cultural and historical traits, while a state is a political entity with defined territory and governing institutions. It's worth noting that these concepts can sometimes overlap. For example, a "nation-state" is a state where the majority of the population shares a common national identity. However, many states are multinational, meaning they consist of multiple nations within their borders. This can lead to complexities and challenges in terms of governance and identity.
The terms "nation" and "state" are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to distinct concepts in political science and international relations. Here's the difference between the two:
Nation: A nation refers to a group of people who share common cultural, linguistic, historical, and sometimes ethnic characteristics. They typically have a sense of unity and identity based on these shared attributes. A nation might share traditions, a common language, religious beliefs, historical experiences, and a sense of belonging to a particular community. For example, the Kurdish people, who have a shared history and culture, can be considered a nation.
State: A state, on the other hand, is a political entity with defined geographical boundaries, a permanent population, a government, and the ability to engage in international relations. It is essentially a sovereign entity that exercises authority over its territory and population. States can vary in terms of their political systems, such as democracies, monarchies, or authoritarian regimes. Examples of states include the United States, France, and China.
Via: Javatpoint
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