Question

Explain this quote from Johann Gottlieb “The first, original, and truly natural boundaries of states are beyond doubt their internal boundaries. Those who speak the same language are joined to each other by a multitude of invisible bonds by nature herself, long before any human art begins; they understand each other and have the power of continuing to make themselves understood more and more clearly; they belong together and are by nature one and an inseparable whole. Such a whole, if it wishes to absorb and mingle with itself any other people of different descent and language, cannot do so without itself becoming confused, in the beginning at any rate, and violently disturbing the even progress of its culture. From this internal boundary, which is drawn by the spiritual nature of man himself, the marking of the external boundary by dwelling place results as a consequence; and in the natural view of things it is not because men dwell between certain mountains and rivers that they are a people, but, on the contrary, men dwell together and, if their luck has so arranged it, are protected by rivers and mountains-because they were a people already by a law of nature which is much higher.”

Answer 1

This quote emphasizes that the most significant and natural boundaries of a state are its internal boundaries, which are defined by the shared language, culture, and values of the people who live within them. These internal boundaries are created by the spiritual nature of human beings and exist long before any political or artificial boundaries are established.

The quote suggests that people who share a language and culture are naturally connected and have an inherent sense of belonging to each other. When communities of different languages and cultures are forced to merge, it can lead to confusion and a disturbance of cultural progress.

The author argues that the external boundaries of a state result from the internal boundaries, and not the other way around. The physical boundaries of a state, such as mountains and rivers, only serve to protect and define the people who are already united by their shared language and culture.

Overall, the quote highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the natural boundaries of a state, which are defined by the unique characteristics and values of its people.