This work explores whether the nation-state is a useful concept under contemporary international law. It begins with an analysis of Grotius's masterpiece The Law of War and Peace , tracing the historical development of the nation-state. It then argues that due to increased interdependence among the peoples of the world, the nation-state has become dysfunctional in serving the needs of global life. Emphasizing a world without borders, the book offers the concept of the Free State that allows the free movement of goods, services, capital, information and the peoples of the world. International legal scholars, diplomats, policy makers and foreign affairs experts will find this book particularly interesting.