Introduction
According to Aristotle, the state is seen as a union of families and villages in a perfect and self-sufficing life that aims to provide a happy and honorable life.
Therefore, a state is a political unit or grouping of individuals who are well established in a definite location for the purpose of common welfare and maintenance of law and order.
Characteristics Of The State As A Key Actor
- Government:
A machinery through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized. It constitutes the political authority of the state. It leads, coordinates and where need be, coerces to implement the goals of the state.
- Territory:
This refers to the particular area a state is located on the Earth's surface and has definite, generally recognized boundaries that do not overlap the area of any other state. A state's territory embraces not merely the land itself, but also the air above the land, and waters extending outward from its coast for a distance of twelve miles.
- Population:
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| A large group of people |
A state is inhabited only by a group of individuals which it regards as citizens or subjects and all others as aliens. As with territory, so with population. Neither the minimum population necessary to make up a state nor the optimum can be prescribed.
- Sovereignty:
The concept of sovereignty was first used by Jean Boding in 1576. The state is the legitimate holder of power, has absolute supremacy that is not to be shared with others. It connotes that a state should be free from both internal and external controls.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the state is a political organization that unites people within a defined territory under a government that exercises sovereign authority. Its essential features—government, territory, population, and sovereignty—collectively ensure order, welfare, and independence, enabling the state to function as a key actor in both domestic and international affairs.
References
U24PS Ints101 note
Element of politics: Remi Anifowose & Francis Enemuo
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