I finally see it

I cannot say with any certainty what will replace the State, but we might make some conjectures. The international system, as it stands currently, consists of countries that, at least in theory, exercise uniform authority within clearly delineated boundaries. Despite the manifold exceptions, this is the ‘standard’ and has for some time been accepted as such. In the future, however, the world may consist of ‘power centres’ whose influence radiates outward, ebbing as it drifts from its source. Some political theorists have spoken of a “new medievalism” as a potential outcome. Perhaps that can give us some clue as long as we carefully guard against extrapolating past devices too far. Still pre-Westphalian Europe offers interesting perspectives: merchant empires, august religious institutions, and imperfect dictatorships. Who knows what combinations and permutations will arise from our present condition.

I think the important point is to realize that the world, at least in the near term, will become more chaotic and that the loci of power will shift along ethnic/religious lines, with personality becoming more important than defunct bureaucracy.