Small States in International Relations 1

Abstract

This chapter discusses the concept of small states in International Relations. It starts by explaining the socially constructed nature of the concept by tracing its origin back to the rise of the modern state system. This explanation is followed by a discussion of two main approaches to define states as small: the objective approach and the subjective approach. The objective approach is focussed on tangible and quantifiable criteria whereas the subjective approach is based on qualitative criteria such as perceptions and comparison. Building on these discussions, a new approach to defining small states is outlined: an intersubjective approach. The intersubjective approach occupies the middle ground between the objective approach and the subjective approach. An intersubjective approach to defining small states is important because there is a difference between the concepts as developed by social scientists and how these concepts are understood in an everyday context. In other words, the objective approach and the subjective approach are abstract understandings of small states whereas the intersubjective approach looks at how state actors identify their state and other states.

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