CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2014
| Author | Olaru, Vasile Mihai |
|---|---|
| Title | WRITS AND MEASURES. SYMBOLIC POWER AND THE GROWTH OF STATE INFRASTRUCTURE IN WALLACHIA, 1740-1800 |
| Summary | The subject of this dissertation is modern state formation in Wallachia between 1740 and 1800. Focusing on the dynamics of administrative extension, it argues that the process consisted of two interrelated developments: infrastructural growth and accumulation of symbolic power. On the one hand, the regulation of agrarian relations and taxation by written normative texts, the development of instruments of storing social knowledge, and the standardization of the units of measurement enhanced the capacity of the central power to act at a distance. On the other hand, the infrastructural extension was complemented by a cultural accomplishment. The regulations territorialized social relations in two ways: they gradually suppressed both the local agreements between landlords and peasants and the private relations (privileges) between princedom and various social actors. By addressing all subjects at once, the regulations fostered a link between them and the state. The new instruments of storing administrative knowledge enhanced the state’s capacity of surveillance. Finally, the standardization of measures substituted the local measures with central ones. Valid at all times and in all places, the standard measures transcended social divisions and proclaimed the equality in front of measure. Through these administrative practices, the state extended its capacity to act at a distance, redefined the area of legitimate intervention and appeared as an objective and equidistant entity. |
| Supervisor | Iordachi, Constantin |
| Department | History PhD |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2014/olaru_vasile.pdf |
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