State power Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
state power
[steษชt หpaสษr ]
Definition
government authority
State power refers to the authority and control that a government has over its citizens and territory. It includes the ability to make and enforce laws, collect taxes, maintain order, and provide public services.
Synonyms
control, government authority, sovereignty.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| state power |
This term is usually used to refer to the ultimate authority and force that a state can exercise over its territory and people. It can be used in political science, law, and discussions about the abilities and limits of state action.
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| government authority |
This phrase pertains to the legal and formal power that government bodies possess. It is commonly used in discussions about laws, regulations, and the formal roles of different branches of government.
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| sovereignty |
Sovereignty is used in discussions about a state's independence and right to govern itself without outside interference. It's a term often seen in international relations and discussions about national borders and autonomy.
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| control |
Often used in a more general and everyday sense, 'control' can apply to any situation where influence or regulation is exerted over something or someone. In politics, it can refer to managing or directing policies, resources, or people.
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Examples of usage
- State power is essential for the functioning of a modern society.
- The president's exercise of state power is subject to checks and balances.
- The balance of state power between the branches of government is crucial for democracy.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Political Theory
- The concept of state power was significantly developed by philosophers like Max Weber, who focused on the ability of governments to legitimize their authority.
- Different political systems exercise state power in various ways, such as democracies having power derived from the people's consent, while autocracies often rely on force.
History
- Throughout history, the rise and fall of empires were often linked to how effectively they used state power, as seen in the Roman Empire's ability to govern diverse peoples.
- The Treaty of Westphalia (1648) is often cited as the beginning of state sovereignty, establishing that states have the authority over their territory without outside interference.
International Relations
- State power is a critical factor in international relations, influencing a country's ability to engage in diplomacy, trade, and military action.
- Realism and liberalism are two major theories in international relations that analyze how states use power to interact with each other and achieve their interests.
Sociology
- The relationship between state power and society is often studied to understand how governments impact people's lives through laws, welfare, and public services.
- Michel Foucault's theories explored how state power extends beyond government to influence social norms and personal behavior.
Origin of 'state power'
The concept of state power has roots in ancient political philosophy, with thinkers like Plato and Aristotle discussing the role of the state in governing society. Throughout history, the balance of state power has been a central issue in the development of political systems, from monarchies to democracies. The idea of state power continues to be a key topic in political science and governance studies, influencing debates on the role and limits of government authority.