Question
Write a short note on power and state.
Solution
Power and State :
(i) Legitimate power is the most important element of state.
State has monopoly in the exercise of legitimate force. The power cannot be unlimited and unqualified. The unqualified power cannot last long.
(ii) In ancient and medieval times the political powers of rulers was relatively unqualified but state, which emerged after Enlightment and Industrial Revolution was endowed with qualified power. State uses that power within a given territory.
(iii) The constitution of a state (country) defines the limits of power of the state and its different organs (Legislature, executive and judiciary). The power is legitimate so long as it presents the general will of the people and is voluntarily accepted by them.
