Political Science is the systematic study of State. The world is viewed as an embodiment of many States, and today the word 'State' usually indicates the modern State. This chapter covers the meaning, definitions and essential elements of the State, its relation to society and government, and the concepts of the Modern State, Welfare State, Soft State, Over Developed State and Post-colonial State.
1. Meaning of State
- The State is the most universal and most powerful of all social institutions. The State is a natural institution.
- Aristotle said 'Man (Human) is a social animal and by nature s/he is a political being'. To him, to live in the State and to be a man were identical.
- The modern term 'state' is derived from the word 'status'.
- Niccolo Machiavelli (1469 – 1527) was the first to use the term 'State' in his writings.
- The State comes into existence out of the basic needs of life and continues to remain for the sake of good life. The aims, desires and aspirations of human beings are translated into action through the State.
- Though the State is a necessary institution, no two writers agree on its definition.