In the 4th century BC, the ancient Greeks formulated the so-called “heap paradox.” According to this paradox, a single grain of wheat is clearly not a heap. If we add one more grain to it, again, it seems, it is not a heap. By adding one grain at a time, we thus cannot tell exactly at what point a collection of wheat grains becomes a heap.
There is also a mirror-like reversal of the same paradox. If we assume that there is, let’s say, a million grains of wheat, which we call a “heap,” then, taking out one grain at a time, at what point does it stop being called a “heap”?
I think we can ask the same question about the concept of a “state.” Is the Republic of Armenia still a state without Artsakh? To be honest, I doubt it. The third republic was “designed” as a guarantor of Artsakh’s freedom and security. But the RA authorities say, “Yes, of course, we are a state with the Alma-Ata declaration.”
Okay, let’s assume that’s true. But the “grains of wheat” are becoming fewer and fewer. Are we a state without the Goris-Kapan highway? Are we a state without our sovereign territories of Syunik and Gegharkunik? After all, a defining characteristic of a state is control over a certain territory. Are we a state without the border areas of Tavush, where enemy soldiers appear?
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The authorities say again, “Yes, of course, we are thus strengthening our statehood. It is the result of our good diplomacy.”
Alright, we got over that. But in the near future, the “grains of wheat” will continue to decrease. Without Tigranashen and other “enclaves,” with our strategic highways in danger, will we continue to remain a state? By changing the Constitution, laws, and coat of arms at the request of other states, will we still remain a state? After handing over a “corridor” through our own territory, can we still be considered a state? Finally, with the enemy’s army “supporting” the government, which will not leave if it comes, will we continue to be a state?
“Yes,” the authorities will say, “because the people agree to it, and our flag will fly in front of the United Nations in New York.” I don’t know, maybe. But for me personally, the fact that the people agree to it and the waving flag are not criteria.
Aram ABRAHAMYAN
