The "Civilization State" and Subjectivity (на китайском языке)

Dongfang Journal. 2025. No. 27. P. 114–115.

Iserov A. A.

The article explores the concept of the “civilization state” through the lens of political subjectivity. He defines a civilization state as a large state that acts independently, setting its own criteria rather than conforming to external ideological pressures. Using Brazil as an example, Iserov illustrates how size enables such states to maintain autonomy even when culturally aligned with the West. He highlights the dialectical risk that internal struggles for subjectivity may invite foreign intervention, leading to its loss. Internationally, civilization states inevitably develop spheres of influence, challenging both the ideal of equal coexistence and the fading unipolar order. Iserov critiques the gap between universalist rhetoric and imperial practice, citing historical examples from Havel to Krauthammer. He envisions a future of multiple civilizational blocs with limited sovereignties, where the key challenge for civilization states is to exercise self-restraint and ensure multilateral governance within their spheres without descending into anarchy or exploitation.

Keywords: "civilization state", subjectivity in international relations