The quote suggests that the nation-state system we see today has developed over thousands of years through various political, social, and cultural changes. It highlights that only recently have people started contemplating organizing principles on a scale larger than individual nation-states. This implies that while the concept of the nation-state is deeply rooted in historical evolution, newer ideas about global governance or supranational entities are relatively recent developments.
Delving deeper into the quote, it underscores how the modern notion of a state with clear national boundaries and centralized government authority has been shaped by numerous factors over millennia. The idea that people have only recently begun to question this traditional model suggests an ongoing shift in thinking about how societies can be organized on a global scale. This reflects broader trends such as globalization, international cooperation, and the need for addressing transnational issues like climate change or pandemics, which often require strategies beyond national borders.
Stephen Miller is likely a commentator or analyst who specializes in political science or international relations, given the nature of his observations about nation-states and their evolution over time. His insights contribute to ongoing discussions about how societies might adapt to increasingly interconnected global challenges while acknowledging the historical significance of current governmental structures.
