The problems of the formation and development of the state excite philosophers for more than one millennium. This question was first raised in ancient Greece, when the Greek polis system was at the peak of its power.
How is the state formed and what are its functions?
In world political science, there are several basic theories that explain the need for a state. Leaving aside the obviously obsolete paternalistic, theological and patriarchal, it is worth focusing on the theories that are relevant today.
These include:
- sociological;
- violent;
- natural legal.
Most of the theories that explain how the state is formed and what its functions are based on the fact that at a certain level of development society needs a professional administration.
The basic theories of the state
The differences are based on the conditions under which this administration is carried out. Sociological theories proceed from an agreement within society that its representatives are ready to give up part of their rights and limit the use of violence against each other, delegating this right to the ruling class.
Violent theory, especially popular in the XlX century, involves the unauthorized seizure of power by the most powerful members of the community and the establishment of total control over its members.
The natural-legal theory, of which Hobbes was a staunch supporter, proceeds from the fact that the society of primitive people was in a state of uncontrolled chaos and a war of all against all. In such a situation, he believes, the cessation of the struggle and the rejection of individual interests were natural.
The territory of the state is the main sign of its solvency
Whatever theory they try to explain the emergence of the state, any of them implies the mandatory presence of controlled territory, even the smallest. Indeed, we learn about how the state is formed and what its functions are, including thanks to the material culture of mankind, which is preserved in certain territories.
In modern society, however, there is consensus that personal interests are more important than state interests and that the phrase “state interests” itself is irritating in Western democratic societies. In this case, the main functions of the state are considered to be the protection of the rights and freedoms of citizens, their life, property and health. All branches of state power should work harmoniously, but also balance each other. That is how the most comfortable environment is achieved in society for citizens to exercise their rights and freedoms.
Understanding of how the state is formed and what its functions are, it is necessary, in particular, in order to better form the institutions of governance in modern society.