Politics and the state - Debating the state - Rival theories of the state

7 important questions on Politics and the state - Debating the state - Rival theories of the state

What are the four rival theories of the state?

- The pluralist state
- The capitalist state
- The leviathan state
- The patriarchal state

What is meant by the pluralist state?

The pluralist state is the liberal view; the state is the referee in society and acts in interest of all citizens

What does the social-contract theory mean?

That there is a voluntary agreement made amongst individuals through which an organized society is brought into existence
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Sailabus

How do Marxists look at the capitalist state?

Marxists see this as the state as an instrument of class oppression.

What does Bourgeoisie and proletariat mean?

Bourgeoisie : A Marxist term, denoting the ruling class of a capitalist society, the owners of productive wealth

Proletariat : A Marxist term, denoting a class that subsists through the sale of its labour power; strictly speaking, the proletariat is not equivalent to the working class

What is meant by the leviathan state?

The New Right saw the state as a self-serving monster intent on expansion and aggrandizement that threatens liberty and economic security

What is the patriarchal state?

The view of feminists that see the state as a tool used by men to defend their own interests and uphold the structures of patriarchy.

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo