Final answer:
Sovereignty is critical for a state's self-esteem and identity as it ensures autonomy and control, fostering national pride and securing its position in the international community.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sovereignty is essential for the self-esteem and identity of a state and its people because it signifies complete autonomy and control over the state's internal and external affairs. This control fosters a strong sense of national identity and pride, which is integral to the collective self-image of the state's populace. For example, by exercising sovereignty, a state enforces its own laws and reacts to threats, reinforcing the legitimacy of its institutions and the sense of belonging among its citizens. Furthermore, the recognition of a state's sovereignty by other states validates its existence and position within the international community, enhancing its ability to engage in diplomacy and to protect its interests.
While sovereignty does contribute to economic stability and can be associated with military power, these are not its primary functions in relation to state self-esteem and identity. Instead, sovereignty allows a society to operate independently, maintain its cultural values, and participate in the international system on its own terms. The state's recognition of another's sovereignty can be a strategic choice to create alliances with those sharing similar values or expectations, and thus influence the global landscape. Moreover, through sovereign powers, states engage in meaningful public rituals and employ symbols like flags and anthems to embolden a collective national consciousness.