Politics begins and ends with the state (Garner)-Discuss Related: NCE...
Jems wilford Garner , an American professor of political science said that “political science begins and ends with state”. But political science does not confine its area to the past and present states only. It also attempts to formulate principles of good government or in other words , it suggests what the state ought to be. It is therefore, a study of past, present and future of the state. However, the study of Political Science is wider than the activities of the state.
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Politics begins and ends with the state (Garner)-Discuss Related: NCE...
Introduction:
The statement "Politics begins and ends with the state" by Garner implies that the state is the central actor in the political realm. This statement highlights the significance of the state in shaping and regulating political processes and institutions.
The Role of the State:
1. Governance and Administration: The state serves as the primary authority responsible for governing and administering a particular territory. It formulates and implements policies, enacts laws, and ensures the welfare and security of its citizens.
2. Regulation of Society: The state plays a crucial role in setting norms, rules, and regulations that govern social behavior. It establishes legal frameworks, enforces contracts, and maintains law and order within its jurisdiction.
3. Protection of Rights and Liberties: The state is responsible for safeguarding the rights and liberties of its citizens. It establishes and upholds a legal system that protects individual freedoms, such as freedom of speech, expression, and assembly.
4. Public Goods and Services: The state provides essential public goods and services, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare programs. It ensures equitable distribution and access to resources and opportunities within society.
5. International Relations: The state represents its citizens in the international arena. It engages in diplomacy, negotiates treaties, and participates in global decision-making processes. The state also protects its sovereignty and national interests on the global stage.
Limitations and Critiques:
1. Non-State Actors: The statement overlooks the significant role played by non-state actors in politics. Civil society organizations, interest groups, and multinational corporations influence political processes and policies, often challenging the authority and power of the state.
2. Globalization and Interdependence: In an increasingly interconnected world, politics extends beyond the boundaries of the state. Global issues such as climate change, terrorism, and economic interdependence necessitate international cooperation and the involvement of non-state actors.
3. Subnational Politics: Politics is not solely confined to the state level. Subnational entities, such as regions, municipalities, and local communities, have their own political dynamics, which may differ from those at the state level.
4. Political Ideologies: Politics is shaped by various ideologies, such as liberalism, socialism, and conservatism, which may not align with the state-centric perspective. These ideologies advocate for different forms of political organization and challenge the primacy of the state.
Conclusion:
While the state undoubtedly plays a fundamental role in politics, it is essential to recognize the influence of non-state actors, globalization, subnational politics, and divergent political ideologies. Politics is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that extends beyond the state, encompassing a wide range of actors and dynamics.
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