Final answer:
Nation-states can be compared based on various factors, with France and Germany sharing cultural and economic ties as EU members, while Australia and Brazil differ significantly. India and China have cultural similarities but differ politically and economically, and the US and Canada share language and culture but diverge in social policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
When evaluating which nation-states had the most in common and which were the most different, one should consider factors such as culture, history, economy, governmental structures, and foreign policies. For example, France and Germany, despite their tumultuous history, share many cultural and economic similarities today as key members of the European Union, and both have a strong commitment to democracy. Conversely, Australia and Brazil are quite different due to their distinct colonial histories, languages, and geographic locations, leading to unique economies and environmental policies.India and China share a long history and have geographical proximity which leads to certain cultural similarities. However, they have different political systems, with China being a single-party state and India being the world's largest democracy, and they also have diverse economic strategies and regional influences. The United States and Canada share a common language and vast economic ties as well as many aspects of culture, but they possess different healthcare systems and attitudes towards social policies.Identifying the similarities and differences among these nation-states illuminates the complex relationships and diverse forms such states can take. It also showcases the importance of the nation-state concept in determining the cultural, political, and economic course of countries around the world.