What concept describes the absence of a higher authority above a state that dictates its activities?

The correct answer is the concept of anarchy, which refers to a system where there is no overarching authority that governs the interactions between independent states. In the context of international relations, anarchy describes the nature of the global system where states operate independently, without a central power that enforces rules or norms. This lack of a higher authority means that states must rely on their own capabilities to ensure their security and pursue their interests, as there is no global government to intervene or impose order.

Anarchy in this sense does not imply chaos or disorder; rather, it is a fundamental characteristic of the international system where states coexist while remaining sovereign and autonomous. The implications of anarchy lead to various theories in international relations, such as realism, which emphasizes the competitive and often conflictual nature of state interactions due to the absence of an authority that provides stability.

Other terms like monarchy, hierarchy, and oligarchy refer to specific forms of government or social organization that involve structured authority and decision-making power, which do not fit the description of the international state system characterized by the absence of a higher governing authority.