PPT: Theories of State | PSIR Optional for UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Theories of 
State
Page 2


Theories of 
State
Introduction to the Theory of 
State
Political science studies the state and its different 
forms, but the term "state" is often confused with 
ideas like government or economic condition, making 
its clear definition important.
Understanding the state's nature, role, powers, and 
how it differs from other institutions is essential for 
political science study.
Since ancient Athens, Western thinkers have 
developed political theories about the state, 
highlighting the need for a deep understanding of this 
concept.
Page 3


Theories of 
State
Introduction to the Theory of 
State
Political science studies the state and its different 
forms, but the term "state" is often confused with 
ideas like government or economic condition, making 
its clear definition important.
Understanding the state's nature, role, powers, and 
how it differs from other institutions is essential for 
political science study.
Since ancient Athens, Western thinkers have 
developed political theories about the state, 
highlighting the need for a deep understanding of this 
concept.
The State and Its Derivations
State: Highest form of 
human association
In political science, the 
state represents the 
pinnacle of human 
organizational structures
Historical terms
The ancient Greeks called 
it "polis," linked to public 
welfare, while the Teutons 
used "status," which only 
partly reflects the modern 
meaning.
Niccolo Machiavelli (16th century)
Introduced "state" in political science
Derived from "status," signifying authority
The term "state" acquired a neutral connotation, 
signifying authority. 
Page 4


Theories of 
State
Introduction to the Theory of 
State
Political science studies the state and its different 
forms, but the term "state" is often confused with 
ideas like government or economic condition, making 
its clear definition important.
Understanding the state's nature, role, powers, and 
how it differs from other institutions is essential for 
political science study.
Since ancient Athens, Western thinkers have 
developed political theories about the state, 
highlighting the need for a deep understanding of this 
concept.
The State and Its Derivations
State: Highest form of 
human association
In political science, the 
state represents the 
pinnacle of human 
organizational structures
Historical terms
The ancient Greeks called 
it "polis," linked to public 
welfare, while the Teutons 
used "status," which only 
partly reflects the modern 
meaning.
Niccolo Machiavelli (16th century)
Introduced "state" in political science
Derived from "status," signifying authority
The term "state" acquired a neutral connotation, 
signifying authority. 
Meaning and Definition of the State
Importance of the State in Political Science
The state is a central concept in political 
science. It helps in understanding how political 
power and organization work in society.
Different Forms of Authority in History
Throughout history, people have lived under 
many types of authority. While they may vary, 
all states serve a common purpose, 
distinguishing them from other organizations.
Various Perspectives on State
Sociologists see state as a social group.
Jurists view it as a legal institution.
Experts in international law focus on its 
global role.
Philosophers offer abstract ideas about it.
Dual Nature of the State
The state is both an idea and a real, working 
system. It includes physical parts like land and 
people but is also an abstract concept that 
represents authority and order.
Page 5


Theories of 
State
Introduction to the Theory of 
State
Political science studies the state and its different 
forms, but the term "state" is often confused with 
ideas like government or economic condition, making 
its clear definition important.
Understanding the state's nature, role, powers, and 
how it differs from other institutions is essential for 
political science study.
Since ancient Athens, Western thinkers have 
developed political theories about the state, 
highlighting the need for a deep understanding of this 
concept.
The State and Its Derivations
State: Highest form of 
human association
In political science, the 
state represents the 
pinnacle of human 
organizational structures
Historical terms
The ancient Greeks called 
it "polis," linked to public 
welfare, while the Teutons 
used "status," which only 
partly reflects the modern 
meaning.
Niccolo Machiavelli (16th century)
Introduced "state" in political science
Derived from "status," signifying authority
The term "state" acquired a neutral connotation, 
signifying authority. 
Meaning and Definition of the State
Importance of the State in Political Science
The state is a central concept in political 
science. It helps in understanding how political 
power and organization work in society.
Different Forms of Authority in History
Throughout history, people have lived under 
many types of authority. While they may vary, 
all states serve a common purpose, 
distinguishing them from other organizations.
Various Perspectives on State
Sociologists see state as a social group.
Jurists view it as a legal institution.
Experts in international law focus on its 
global role.
Philosophers offer abstract ideas about it.
Dual Nature of the State
The state is both an idea and a real, working 
system. It includes physical parts like land and 
people but is also an abstract concept that 
represents authority and order.
The state can be understood as:
1
An organization uniting humanity as one group.
2
A politically organized community living in a 
specific area.
3
A legal body with exclusive power to use force 
over its people.
4
A system that operates internally through 
institutions called the government.