Introduction
The concept of a state is central to the study of Political Science and other Social Sciences. It represents the highest form of political organization that governs a specific territory and population. Over time, scholars and theorists have provided various definitions and interpretations of what constitutes a state, reflecting differing ideological perspectives such as the liberal and Marxian views. Understanding the meaning, features, functions, and types of states is crucial to grasping how societies are structured and governed.
DEFINITION OF A STATE:
As with all Social Science concepts, there are numerous definitions of a state. Let's consider some:
The state is a politically organised body of people occupying a definite territory and living under a government that is entirely free from external control.
A community which claims monopoly of the legitimate use of physical force in a given territory.
A Sovereign Entity with absolute control of coercive power.
Radical or Marxian view which defined a state as:
A Committee for managing the common affairs of the whole bourgeoisie. In other words, the state is seen as an instrument of class rule and domination.
On the other hand, the Liberal view regards the state as an independent or neutral force in the society.
Characteristics or features of the state
(A) Territory
(B) Population
(C) Sovereignty
(D) Government
Function of a State
(A) Defence of its territory, people and values.
(B) Maintenance of law and order.
(C) Provision of infrastructures.
(D) Provision of employment opportunity.
(E) Maintenance of external relations and foreign policy.
(F) Administration
(G) Economic management
Types of State
(1) Federal State:
This is one in which powers of government are divided between the Central (federal) and the Units. The two levels are both co-ordinates and independent in certain areas of their responsibilities. Some federal states are created out of previously existing entities.
Examples: Nigeria while some emerged out of deliberate fusion of different entities which agreed to merge into a federation, for example, the United States of America (U.S.A.). Apart from Nigeria and the U.S.A., some other examples of federal states are; Brazil, Canada, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Russia e.t.c.
(2) Unitary State:
A unitary state is one in which all powers are vested in the Central government and the Units are merely administrative divisions which exercise powers only delegated to them by the centre.
Examples: The United Kingdom (U.K), Bulgaria, Angola, Benin Republic, Botswana (Southern African region), Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, China and so on.
(3) Con federal State:
A con federal state is a loose system in which major powers rest with the Units while the centre exercises very little powers delegated to it by the Units. A con federal state is regarded by some scholars as a loose federation and in effect, the opposite of a Unitary State. Switzerland is considered as the only nation in the contemporary world in this kind of system. In fact, it's regarded as "Swiss Confederation." It is also a perception by many scholars that the Switzerland is more of a "federal than a con federal state."
Conclusion
In summary, the state remains the primary institution responsible for maintaining order, ensuring security, and promoting the welfare of its citizens. Whether federal, unitary, or con federal, every state operates based on its unique historical and political context. A proper understanding of the state’s nature, characteristics, and functions provides valuable insight into how political authority is organized and exercised across different societies.
References
Pols 101 dictated by Prof. Kayode Omojuwa
Wikipedia contributors
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