Nation State

Concept nation state is one of the most widely used term in nationalism studies. In this case, the residing territory of a nation and the territory of a particular state are coinciding. The state is represented by the sole hegemonic nation. The whole state is governed by the single nation. But quiet often this is a rhetorical fiction and a political tool, as there does not exist any nation state in it’s true sense. We can speak about less homogenic and more heterogenic states[1].
Nation state is a specific form of a state (political entity) providing particular nation (cultural entity) with a sovereign territory, therefore deriving it’s legitimacy through this function. The nation state can be defined as a sovereign state, unifying it’s subjects/citizens by means of language and common origins. Generally, it’s an unitary state, with a government and laws[2].

[1]Nationalism Study Project: Anthony D. Smith – Nationalism and the Reconstruction of Nations http://www.nationalismproject.org/what.htm
[2]Wikipedia http://www.wikipedia.org/