Internationalism's Role in A Current Dispute: The Greek Economy

Hegemonic, Liberal & Revolutionary Internationalism Applied to the Economic Crisis in Greece

By Naomi Hill

As Greece’s economy continues to falter, the entire world wonders how to help. Greece used to be a fairly independent nation, but this economic crisis has caused a lot of people concern, both in and outside of Greece. A news article from late 2010 discusses the issue of children. Currently, parents are leaving their children at hospitals and churches. The article also spoke of a small girl who was sent to daycare with a note from her mother. It simply stated that the mother would not be picking the girl up, and that the daycare needed to find her a new home.

In terms of internationalism, this could apply to three types: hegemonic, revolutionary, and liberal. Liberal internationalism is the idea that liberal nations should intervene in other sovereign nations and their problems. Revolutionary internationalism is the idea that in order for change to occur, there must be some kind of revolution. It could be slow or quick, violent or non-violent. It’s simply a revolution. Hegemonic internationalism is the idea that one nation has more power or control than all of the other nations. While this may be untrue, it is still a concept that must be understood.

When applying these concepts to the current economic crisis in Greece, all three could apply. It just involves a little creative thinking. In terms of revolutionary internationalism, the people are unable to revolt at this time, but it could happen in the near future. If the economy continues to tank, it’s a very real possibility. With hegemonic internationalism, the supposed “superpower” nations of the world are trying to help. The European Union got involved, but nothing was really resolved. Greece’s economy still suffers. Liberal internationalism would have one believe that it’s a good idea for the world to intervene. Perhaps all Greece needs is to be left alone to pick up the pieces of their economy. Perhaps not. If all three types of internationalism are applied, maybe there will be a solution. Only time will tell.

How Do You Know You Exist?

When asked this question in my Humanities 20-1 class, one word came to mind:
Existentialism.

• A philosophical attitude opposed to rationalism and empiricism, that stresses the individual's unique position as a self-determining agent responsible for the authenticity of his or her choices.

I think that the fact that I am able to make choices makes me human, and therefore proves my existence.


Another thought that came to mind was the fact that I can feel. Not only can I feel things physically, by touch, but I can also show emotion. I can have joy, but also sadness. I can be heartbroken, and extraordinarily happy. 


The biggest thing for me was that I have the capacity to love. I do not think that if I were a well-thought out story or dream that I would have that capacity. However, I do. It's an incredibly strong capacity, and without it, I think I would be lost. I love unconditionally and wholly, without restraint. If I were not human, if I did not exist, I would not have that ability. 


This question made me think a lot more than I expected. I questioned my existence, but only for a moment. I found solace in my religious beliefs, in the fact that I was told that I am here. I do exist. It's hard to explain exactly how I know this, and I could probably do it better in person.


Like Descartes said, "Cogito. Ergo. Sum."


"I think, therefore I am."