Political science

1. Jagatpura, Jaipur,Rajasthan 302017
School- Seedling School Of Law & Governance
Submitted by- Japjot Singh | Jayent Kotwal | Siddhant Bakshi
ERP Id.- R41253 | R42230 | R35001
Programme/ Course- B.A.LL.B. 1 year (Semester 2)
Subject- Political Science
Submitted to- Mr. Vivek Singh Rajput (Assistant Professor)
Project- Presentation on State
Submission Date - 11 March , 2023
Signature
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State
Index
Topic Page no.
Introduction 1
Elements 2
Nature 3
➔ Factor 4
➔ Evolution theory 4
➔ Evolution theory of state
factors
5
The social contract theory 8
Theory of state function 9
Function 13
Is India is state 14
Books 15
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Introduction
What is a state? Is India a state? And what does a state refer to?
The word “state” is derived from the Latin word status, meaning "condition,
circumstances". Latin status derives from stare, "to stand," or remain or be permanent,
thus providing the sacred or magical connection of the political entity.
A state is a centralized political organization that imposes and enforces rules over a
population within a territory.
The state is the most universal and most powerful of all social institutions. The state is a
natural institution.
We've reached this point in our investigation because of our focus on terminology. As the
German writer Schulze observed, there are an infinite number of definitions of the state.
They are naturally influenced by the viewpoints of their authors and the state's
perspective, which is reflected in the definitions It is a social phenomenon in the eyes of
sociologists, a legal establishment in the eyes of jurists,
and an abstract concept in the minds of philosophers,
political scientists, and international law writers.
However, it's important to keep in mind that the state is
both an idea and a physical entity. i.e. one who is
identified with matter. As a result, the state can be
interpreted as A definition which is given by Aristotle
that “A man is a social animal and by nature he is a
political being. To him, to live in the state and to be a
man were identical.”. The term 'State' was first coined by
the western philosopher Nicholo Machiavelli, In his
work is titled 'Prince’. The state is the highest form of
human organization. It is an essential because it comes
into existence out of the basic needs of life. The aims,
desires and aspirations of human beings are translated
into action through the state.
The concept of "state" is central to the field of political science and refers to a political
entity that has control over a defined geographic area and population. In general, a state is
composed of three main elements: a government, a population, and a defined territory.
This essay will provide a brief explanation of the concept of the state and its key features.
The state is a complex and multifaceted concept that has evolved over time. Historically,
the concept of the state emerged in Europe during the period of the Renaissance and the
Enlightenment, as European thinkers began to explore the nature of political power and
its relationship to society. In the early modern period, the concept of the state was closely
linked to the idea of sovereignty, which refers to the supreme authority of the state over
its territory and population.
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Today, the concept of the state has been extended to include a range of political entities,
including nation-states, city-states, federations, and empires. While these different types
of states vary in their size, structure, and political organization, they share certain
common features that define them as political entities.
Basically a state refers to a territorial and political unit that has a government, a defined
territory, and a population. States are also commonly referred to as nations or
countries.The government of a state has the authority to make and enforce laws within its
territory, and it is responsible for providing essential services to its citizens, such as
healthcare, education, and public safety. The territory of a state is usually defined by
borders, which may be natural features like rivers or mountains, or they may be artificial
boundaries established by political agreements. The population of a state includes all the
people who live within its territory and are subject to its laws and governance. A state's
population may be made up of people from different ethnic, cultural, and religious
backgrounds, and its government is responsible for ensuring that their rights are
protected and that they are treated fairly.
States can have different forms of government, such as democracies, monarchies,
dictatorships, or theocracies. The way in which power is distributed and exercised within a
state can have a significant impact on its political and social landscape, as well as on the
lives of its citizens.
What does a state consist of
The state has four fundamental elements. These are: (1) population, (2) territory, (3)
government, (4) sovereignty (or independence). The first two elements constitute the
physical or material basis of the state while the last two form its political and spiritual
basis.
Today, the concept of the state has been extended to include a range of political entities,
including nation-states, city-states, federations, and empires. While these different types
of states vary in their size, structure, and political organization, they share certain
common features that define them as political entities.
One of the key features of the state is its territoriality. A state has a defined geographic
area over which it exercises control and authority. This territory may be defined by natural
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boundaries such as rivers, mountains, or coastlines, or by human-made borders such as
walls or fences. The territoriality of the state is an important aspect of its sovereignty, as it
enables the state to exercise its authority over a specific population and territory.
Another important feature of the state is its population. A state is composed of a group of
people who share a common identity and are subject to the authority of the state. This
population may be defined by various factors, such as ethnicity, nationality, language,
religion, or culture. The state has the power to regulate the movement and activities of its
population, and to enforce laws and regulations that govern their behavior.
The government is another key feature of the state. The government is the institution that
exercises the power and authority of the state over its population and territory. The
government may take many different forms, including democratic, authoritarian, or
totalitarian regimes. The type of government that a state has is closely linked to its
political ideology and its relationship to society.
In addition to these key features, the state is also characterized by its ability to exercise
power and authority over its population and territory. This power may take many different
forms, including the use of force, coercion, persuasion, or propaganda. The state has the
power to make and enforce laws, to levy taxes, to regulate the economy, and to provide
public goods and services to its citizens.
The state is also characterized by its relationship to other states in the international
system. The state is a sovereign entity, which means that it has the exclusive right to
exercise authority over its territory and population. However, states are also members of
a larger community of states, and they interact with each other through various forms of
diplomacy, trade, and conflict. The relationship between states is shaped by a range of
factors, including geopolitical interests, economic considerations, and cultural differences.
One of the key debates in political science is over the role and purpose of the state. Some
political theorists argue that the state is necessary to ensure order and stability in society,
and to provide essential public goods and services such as security, education, and
healthcare. Others argue that the state is a coercive and repressive institution that exists
to serve the interests of a privileged elite, and that it should be replaced by more
democratic and decentralized forms of governance.
In conclusion, the state is a complex and multifaceted concept that has evolved over time.
It is characterized by its territoriality, its population, its government, and its ability to
exercise power and authority over its territory and population
The Nature of state
To arrive at this state, many different perspectives were used. The state is conceived and
defined by each theorist in accordance with his or her own field of study. The origin,
nature, sphere, function, and end of the state have been debated by a variety of thinkers.
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Formally and substantively, these theories frequently diverge. There are a number of
theories about the nature of state that we will examine in this unit.
➔ Factors of state
Certainly, here are five factors that can affect the evolutionary theory of state and should
be considered when studying or researching the topic:
● Historical Context: The historical context of a region or country can greatly
influence the evolution of its state. Factors such as cultural traditions, colonialism,
wars, and revolutions can shape the state's development.
● Economic Conditions: The economic conditions of a society can also have an impact
on the state's evolution. Economic factors such as resources, trade, and
industrialization can lead to changes in the state's structure and function.
● Political Ideology: Political ideology can influence the evolution of the state.
Different political ideologies such as liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and
fascism have shaped the development of states in different ways.
● Social Factors: Social factors such as religion, gender roles, and social class can also
affect the evolution of the state. For example, the influence of religious institutions
can shape the state's laws and policies.
● International Relations: The relationships between states and the international
community can also have an impact on the evolution of a state. Factors such as
globalization, diplomacy, and war can shape the state's development and its place in
the international community.
➔ Evolution Theory
Political scientists have tried in conformity to explain the origins of the ruler in a range of
ways. The actual date, location, or appearance of the regime have in no way been recorded
anywhere. As a result, political scientists had been compelled in accordance with being
given a variety concerning theories, many concerning as have since been disproved by way
of the bar about contemporary knowledge. This part makes me feel incomplete of the
one-of-a-kind hypotheses regarding the beginning of the express so is the presence up
next. The evolutionary theory of the origin of the state is as follows:
1. The family established the first section in the process of the state’s evolution/
Matriarchal yet Patriarchal Theory.
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2. As a result of family multiplication, new families emerged, as did clans and tribes/
Transformative Theory.
3. Religion provided the bond of unity in ancient society/ The Theory of Divine
Origin.
4. The ancient people created the state to protect their property/ Common
agreement Theory.
5. Physical force was used to expand kingdoms and empires/ Force Theory.
➔ Evolutionary theory of State Factors
➔ Five factors are responsible for affecting the Evolutionary theory of State.
Keep these five factors in mind while studying or doing research about the
topic.
1. Kinship- Connection is the near massive yet dependent on blood kinship yet
coalition was the primary most grounded discipline concerning solidarity. The
family comprised the primary connection during the day past the improvement
concerning the administration with the development regarding the family arisen
new households then the duplication regarding households brought about the
association concerning companies then clans. Connection used to be the
fundamental thing which certain individuals together.Supported the feeling of
family relationship, namely the course regarding a
long time amplified the gathering. The gore
discipline on sonship modified vaguely between
the convivial discipline over the more sizable
fellowship. The rule regarding the later passes in
the pressure of the rule again under the aegis
concerning amalgamation; modern constructions
put in appearances who upward push on it.
Connection makes society or tribes finally make the state.
2. Magic and Religion- In early society, faith imposed assistance on solidarity. It also
had an impact on human beings from various backgrounds. A feel regarding
convivial fortitude used to be made by way of the armor on a regular producer and
ordinary items. Taking everything into account, there was funk between the hearts
concerning men. Even now, we take a look at succinct processes, commitments, or
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have confidence within uniting persons. In the strong old days, worship delivered
people about whole races together, then team
spirit was imperative because of the
establishment of a state. Individuals have been
no longer fostered yet advanced in the past. The
man was once impotent among the rear about
habit at its point. As a result, she tried in
conformity with impact habits via a variety of
parts as opposite grew to be regarded as magic. With the communication over
time, men progressed and ended up cleric lords. Religion developed to be a robust
tool because of keeping government upon humans above time. Religion, at last,
performs a vital role in a range of regimen functions.
3. War and force- Force has an enormous effect on the state’s development so well.
The establishment concerning
geographical regions or domains was
structured about the software on genuine
power. War then power performed a
necessary position in the state’s
development. When the limit is used, even
is a compelling purpose because of doing
so. To start with, the pressure was back in
accordance with capturing creatures, resources, or areas the place like had been
neighboring clans. As a result, certain disputes and conflicts have been fought
forward or most important because of economic gain. Since conflict has grown to
be an altogether long-lasting part of hereditary life, the initiative has also come to
be pretty long-lasting. With the bargain about time, primeval states had been
converted to realms, and the reducing edge regime was founded alongside its lines.
The importance of its thinking is to that amount that makes sense up to
expectation. The State is the outcome of development, a gradual progression atop a
long length of time or sooner or later molding itself into an intricate structure over
a cutting-edge State.
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4. Property and Rise of Economy classes- Through old times, religion then defense
played an essential function over the emergencies about that state, especially
these sorts about whoever were
wanderers yet vagabonds yet tribals.
Prof. Laski has alluded in accordance
with the want of securing religion by way
of the citizenry or safeguarding the faith
purchased between coalition together
with population referenced previously.
The accordant triggered working
changes of the associative skeleton or the correlation of the persons beside a
number of gatherings. The need to protect the law, in the end, forced the historical
humans into conformity with the layout of the status. The earliest people live in
imitation of a high quantity because lotos then fields. They did not really know
what agribusiness was. They did not now encompass a precise house then be
brought into light over this. The ordinary population was extended together with
the exchange regarding epoch yet the body was compelled to imitate the offer.
5. Consciousness of Politics- This precisely suggests the risk of records
concerning which political job is in the situation. There was at the beginning
the prerequisite for sentry or affirmation of life, chance then property,
regime regarding associative
relationships, or therefore forth
The second choice is political
attention emerging out of the
fundamental desires of existence
insurance plan coverage yet
requested. At the loving website now
persons quiet below on a precise area into consignment along think in imitation of
their ability and yearning in accordance with know that beside others. The use of
directing things and of us is felt inescapably. Enough factors helped the
introduction concerning their state. Due to conformity with the starting point, no
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individual aspect single used to be answerable. Occasionally the whole connection
half of that period a sizeable spiffy on to assist the subject matter whereby savage
tribes used to end up busy as much as a state. For it kinsman large numbers
regarding speculations which seem in accordance with resonating of forwarding
the states, the growing speculation certain amongst the almost palatable. Its
assignment in imitation of remain seen as no speculation pin- focuses half time as
the government started as like a final result regarding many elements deed
between affiliation at a number of times.
The Social Contract Theory
The Social Contract Theory is an old theory. The theory is of the view that individuals’
moral and political views depend on an agreement or a contract between them to
establish a society. It is linked with morality and political theories. The theory has been
defended by people like Thomas Hobbes, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and John Locke.
1. Thomas Hobbes(1588- 1679): Hobbes believed that humans in their natural state
are selfish and violent, leading to a state of
constant warfare. He argued that people
voluntarily surrender their rights to a sovereign
authority in exchange for security and
protection. Hobbes' concept of sovereignty
meant that the government had absolute power
to enforce laws and maintain order. His theory
emphasized the importance of an all-powerful
ruler who is responsible for maintaining order and security in society.
2. John Locke(1632- 1704): Locke believed
that people in their natural state are
rational and have the right to life, liberty,
and property. He argued that people enter
into a social contract to establish a
government that protects these natural
rights. Locke's concept of government was
based on the idea of limited power, where
the government was responsible for protecting the rights of citizens, but not for
infringing upon them. According to Locke, the government should be accountable
to the people, and the people have the right to overthrow a government that fails
to protect their natural rights.
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3. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712- 1778): Rousseau believed that people are naturally
good, but society corrupts them. He argued that people should enter into a social
contract to establish a government that
reflects the general will of the people.
Rousseau's concept of government was
based on the idea of popular sovereignty,
where the government is responsible for
carrying out the will of the people.
According to Rousseau, the government
should be a direct democracy where citizens
have the right to participate in decision-making and governance.
In summary, Hobbes believed in an all-powerful government that maintained order and
security, while Locke believed in a limited government that protected the natural rights of
citizens. Rousseau believed in a direct democracy where citizens had the right to
participate in decision-making and governance. Each philosopher had different views on
human nature, the purpose of government, and the scope of government power, which
shaped their respective Social Contract Theories.
Theories of state function
There are several theories regarding the functions of the state, which vary depending on
the political ideology or perspective. Here are some of the major theories:
1. Liberal Theory: According to the liberal theory, the state's primary function is to
protect individual rights and maintain social order. It
should act as a neutral arbiter, ensuring a level playing
field for all individuals, and providing basic services such
as police protection, infrastructure, and public
education. Liberalism is a political and social philosophy
that emphasizes individual rights, freedom, and equality.
Liberal theory is rooted in the Enlightenment ideals of
rationality, progress, and the pursuit of knowledge. It
argues that individuals should be free to pursue their
own goals and desires without interference from the state, as long as they do not
harm others. Liberalism advocates for a limited government that protects
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individual rights, promotes the rule of law, and provides for public goods such as
education, healthcare, and infrastructure. It also promotes free markets and
private property, as a means of generating economic growth and increasing
individual autonomy. In addition to political liberalism, there are also various forms
of social and cultural liberalism that seek to expand individual freedoms and
promote tolerance and diversity. These include feminism, multiculturalism, and
LGBTQ+ rights. Overall, liberal theory is a diverse and evolving philosophy that
seeks to balance individual freedom and social responsibility, and it has been
influential in shaping modern democratic societies.
2. Marxist Theory: Marxist theory views the state as a tool of the ruling class to
maintain its power over the working class. The state's primary function is to
preserve the capitalist system and the interests of the
bourgeoisie. This theory argues that the state should
be abolished in favor of a classless society.Marxist
theory is a social and economic theory developed by
the German philosopher and economist, Karl
Marx(1818-1883). It argues that societies are divided
into classes based on their relationship to the means of
production, and that conflicts between these classes
are the driving force behind historical change.
Marxism posits that capitalism is an inherently exploitative system, where the
owners of capital (the bourgeoisie) profit from the labor of the workers (the
proletariat). It advocates for the overthrow of the capitalist system through a
proletarian revolution, which would
establish a socialist society in which
the means of production are owned
and controlled by the workers.
Marxism also emphasizes the
importance of dialectical materialism,
which is the idea that history
progresses through the interaction of
material forces and contradictions. This is manifested in the class struggle between
the bourgeoisie and proletariat, which Marx believed would ultimately lead to the
establishment of a communist society. Overall, Marxist theory is a critical
perspective on society that seeks to expose the underlying power dynamics and
class conflicts that shape social, political, and economic systems. It has had a
significant impact on social and political movements throughout the 20th century
and continues to be influential today.
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3. Pluralist Theory: Pluralist theory asserts that the state serves as a mediator
between various interest groups in society, balancing conflicting interests and
ensuring that no group dominates the others.
The state's primary function is to facilitate
compromise and maintain stability in a diverse
society.Pluralist theory is a political theory that
emphasizes the distribution of power among
different groups in society. It argues that society
is made up of multiple, competing interest
groups, each with its own set of values, beliefs,
and interests. These groups compete with each
other to influence public policy and
decision-making, and no single group dominates
the others.Pluralism suggests that power is not
concentrated in the hands of a small elite, but
rather is dispersed among various groups, including labor unions, business
associations, environmental groups, and others. These groups engage in a process
of bargaining and compromise to advance their interests and goals, with no group
having complete control. Pluralism also emphasizes the importance of participation
and representation in democratic decision-making. It argues that citizens should
have access to a variety of channels for expressing their interests and opinions,
including voting, lobbying, and protest. Overall, pluralist theory is a perspective on
politics that emphasizes the importance of diverse groups and interests in shaping
public policy. It has been influential in shaping democratic institutions and
practices, particularly in the United States. However, it has also been criticized for
downplaying the role of structural inequalities and power imbalances in society.
4. Functionalist Theory: Functionalist theory sees the state as an essential institution
that provides essential services such as
healthcare, education, and social welfare
to ensure the well-being of all citizens.
The state's primary function is to
promote social cohesion and stability.
Functionalist theory is a social theory
that emphasizes the interconnectedness
and interdependence of various parts of
society. It argues that society is like a
living organism, with each part
performing a specific function to maintain the overall stability and equilibrium of
the system. According to functionalism, different institutions and social structures,
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such as the family, education system, and government, exist to fulfill specific
societal needs and functions. These functions can include providing socialization
and education, maintaining law and order, and ensuring economic stability.
Functionalist theory also emphasizes the importance of social consensus and
shared values in maintaining social order. It suggests that individuals within society
share common values and beliefs, which allow them to work together towards
common goals. Overall, functionalist theory is a perspective on society that
emphasizes the importance of social structure and order. It has been influential in
shaping sociological research and understanding of social systems, particularly in
the mid-20th century. However, it has also been criticized for downplaying the role
of conflict and power in society, and for failing to address issues of social inequality
and injustice.
5. Realist Theory: Realist theory emphasizes the state's role in ensuring national
security and promoting the country's interests in the international arena. The
state's primary function is to protect the country from external threats and
maintain its position of power and influence. Realist theory is a perspective in
international relations that emphasizes the importance of power, security, and
self-interest in shaping the behavior of states. It argues that the international
system is characterized by anarchy, in which
there is no overarching authority to
regulate the behavior of states. Realism
suggests that states are primarily motivated
by their own self-interest and seek to
maximize their power and security in order
to protect themselves from potential
threats. This can lead to competition and
conflict between states, as they seek to protect their interests and gain advantage
over others. Realist theory also emphasizes the importance of military power and
deterrence in international relations. It suggests that states must be prepared to
use force to defend their interests and to deter potential aggressors. Overall,
realist theory is a perspective on international relations that emphasizes the
importance of power, security, and self-interest in shaping state behavior. It has
been influential in shaping the policies and actions of many states, particularly in
the context of war and conflict. However, it has also been criticized for
downplaying the importance of international cooperation and failing to address
issues of global governance and inequality.
6. Elite theory: Elite theory is a political theory that emphasizes the role of a small,
powerful elite in shaping social, political, and economic systems. It argues that
societies are characterized by a small group of individuals or organizations that
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hold a disproportionate amount of power
and influence. According to elite theory, the
elite use their power and resources to
maintain their position of dominance and to
control society for their own benefit. They
can do this through various means, including
control of the media, political influence, and
economic power. Elite theory suggests that
democracy and other forms of popular
participation are limited by the ability of the
elite to manipulate public opinion and
control the political process. It also suggests
that social change is often initiated by the actions of the elite, rather than by
grassroots social movements. Overall, elite theory is a perspective on politics that
emphasizes the role of power and privilege in shaping social systems. It has been
influential in shaping understandings of political systems and social inequality,
particularly in the 20th century. However, it has also been criticized for
downplaying the agency of ordinary citizens and for failing to address issues of
structural inequality and oppression.
Function of the state
There are the following functions of the state:
➔ The main functions of the state, which are realized throughout its existence,
without which the development and existence of the state is impossible:
● Economic
● Political
● law enforcement
● Humanitarian
● Informational
● public health
● Defense
➔ Additional functions are areas of state activity that are components of the main
functions and through which they are implemented. Thus, additional functions are:
● development of medical science
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● creation of preventive and curative medical institutions
● training of medical personnel of different qualifications
● providing the needs of medicine with material means
Can we call India as a state
India is capable of taking independent decisions.India considers itself a sovereign state. It
means that India is totally independent in taking decisions on internal and external
matters. It simply means that India is an independent state. India is a sovereign state. It
means that India is a supreme power and no internal groups or the external authority
could undermine the authority of the Indian government. As a sovereign state, India is free
from any kind or form of foreign interference in its domestic affairs. Government
formation is the feature of every state, The government has the power to rule the
country’s citizen, The government must be sovereign and independent as it is another
major element of the state for example; when India was a British colony there was a
Government of India but it was not a sovereign Independent government so prior to
independence India was not a state. But after independence India has its own constitution
and the democratically form of government and then termed as a STATE. India is a state
because it is a sovereign independent country without any external influence on its
decisions and having its own constitution and the government to rule the country by the
law.
Thank You
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Famous Books on State
Books and author Picure
Arguing About Political Philosophy, by
Matt Zwolinski
Republic, by Plato
The Prince, by Niccolò Machiavelli
Leviathan, by Thomas Hobbes
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Second Treatise of Government, by
John Locke
Das Kapital, by Karl Marx
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