Ulrich Brand
University of Vienna
Abstract
This article focuses on one aspect of the reconstitution of hegemony—in a Gramscian sense—since the 1970s, i.e. the internationalization of the state. It is argued that the Neo-Gramscian approach to International Political Economy has severe state-theoretical shortcomings. Therefore, insights of historical-materialist state theory are sketched out,
especially Nicos Poulantzas´ state theory, in order to develop the concept of the internationalization of the state. A better understanding of the international state apparatuses can be gained when they are understood as material condensation of relationships of forces of second order. Moreover, the multi-scalarity of socio-economic and political processes must be considered. This is shown in a brief overview of central elements of the restructuring towards post-Fordism. The actual constellation is understood as one of fragmented hegemony.
