Rulership - Theories of State Function

Theories of State Function

See also: Corporatism and Elite theory

Most political theories of the state can roughly be classified into two categories. The first are known as "liberal" or "conservative" theories, which treat capitalism as a given, and then concentrate on the function of states in capitalist society. These theories tend to see the state as a neutral entity separated from society and the economy. Marxist theories on the other hand, see politics as intimately tied in with economic relations, and emphasize the relation between economic power and political power. They see the state as a partisan instrument that primarily serves the interests of the upper class.

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Famous quotes containing the words theories, state and/or function:

    The theories and speculations of men concern us more than their puny accomplishment. It is with a certain coldness and languor that we loiter about the actual and so-called practical.
    Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)

    What thou art is mine;
    Our state cannot be severed, we are one,
    One flesh; to lose thee were to lose myself.
    John Milton (1608–1674)

    It is not the function of our Government to keep the citizen from falling into error; it is the function of the citizen to keep the Government from falling into error.
    Robert H. [Houghwout] Jackson (1892–1954)