National disintegration

Nature

National disintegration results in control, open or disguised, by another country. It may be caused by debt, poverty, cultural invasion, economic imperialism or social breakdown within the country. A country may be subjected to military occupation because of ideological deviancy or may be substantially altered by ideological 'support'. The results of disintegration may be ethnic conflict, violence or apathy, exploitation, and forced assimilation.

Incidence

Although in the 20th century it has become more difficult for nations to be absorbed or annexed by others with the use of military force, political and economic influence of large powers is very strong. Small and developing countries are very susceptible.

Claim

The present-day division of the world between the two super-powers has resulted in the larger nations taking the stance of gangsters while the smaller, less self-sufficient nations are forced into the role of prostitutes or "gangsters' molls", doing whatever a larger nation requires in order to receive its protection.

Counter-claim

National disintegration is grossly exaggerated as a problem. Modern societies are resilient, with strong institutions and shared values that easily withstand minor divisions. Fears of national collapse are often fueled by sensationalism rather than reality. Diversity and debate actually strengthen nations, fostering innovation and progress. Worrying about national disintegration distracts from real issues like economic inequality or climate change. In truth, national disintegration is not an important problem at all.