We asked IEET readers what new paradigm might emerge in the 21st century to replace the nation-state, and the situation is clearly murky.

Responses to a recently-concluded poll showed no agreement on what we might expect. Answers were split almost evenly between the top four choices, with every other choice also getting significant support.

During this century, what will replace the nation-state as a primary locus of power?

“Other” answers included world socialism, decentralized autonomy, distributed groups combining city states and multipolar blocs, and intergalactic federations.