PLsc3 chapter 5

What is a state?

A: An organization that maintains a monopoly on the legitimate use of force within a territory.

Q: What does “monopoly on violence” mean?

A: Only the state has the legal right to use or authorize physical force.

Q: What are the three key elements of a state?

A: Coercion, capital, and legitimacy.

2️⃣ State Capacity

Q: What is state capacity?

A: The ability of a state to carry out basic functions such as enforcing laws, collecting taxes, and maintaining order.

Q: Why is state capacity important for democracy?

A: Strong states can uphold laws and protect rights — essential for democratic stability.

Q: Give an example of a high-capacity state.

A: China — efficient bureaucracy, strong control.

Q: Give an example of a low-capacity or failed state.

A: Somalia — weak institutions, no control over territory.

3️⃣ Legitimacy

Q: What is legitimacy?

A: Citizens’ belief that the government has the right to rule.

Q: Name the three types of legitimacy (Max Weber).

A: Traditional, Charismatic, and Legal-Rational legitimacy.

Q: What is traditional legitimacy?

A: Based on long-standing customs and traditions (e.g., monarchy).

Q: What is charismatic legitimacy?

A: Based on the personal appeal or heroism of a leader (e.g., Nelson Mandela).

Q: What is legal-rational legitimacy?

A: Based on a system of laws and institutions (e.g., modern democracies).

4️⃣ Autonomy & Bureaucracy

Q: What is state autonomy?

A: The ability of the state to act independently from social groups or external pressures.

Q: What is a bureaucracy?

A: The administrative system that carries out government policies and decisions.

Q: Why is bureaucracy important?

A: It ensures efficiency, consistency, and rule-based governance.

5️⃣ Types of States

Q: What is a strong state?

A: One that can enforce laws, protect citizens, and provide public services effectively.

Q: What is a weak state?

A: One that struggles to implement decisions and often faces corruption or conflict.

Q: What is a failed state?

A: A state that loses control over territory and cannot perform basic functions.

6️⃣ Power, Coercion, and Legitimacy

Q: What are the two main tools states use to maintain control?

A: Coercion (force) and Legitimacy (consent).

Q: What happens when a state relies only on coercion?

A: It can maintain order short-term but loses legitimacy and stability long-term.

7️⃣ State and Society Relationship

Q: Why does taxation increase democratization?

A: When citizens pay taxes, they demand representation and accountability — “No taxation without representation.”

Q: What is the rentier state problem?

A: States that rely on resource revenues (like oil) don’t need taxes → citizens have less influence → weaker democracy.

8️⃣ Real-World Examples

Q: Why does China have high state capacity but limited democracy?

A: The state is efficient and autonomous but restricts political participation.

Q: Why do oil-rich states often remain authoritarian?

A: Oil revenue replaces taxes → rulers don’t rely on citizens → less pressure for democracy.

9️⃣ Key Takeaways

Q: What are the three key ingredients for a strong state?

A: Capacity, autonomy, and legitimacy.

Q: How does state weakness lead to instability?

A: It creates corruption, lawlessness, and opens space for violence and warlords.

Q: Why are strong states necessary for democracy?

A: They provide security, enforce laws, and ensure institutions function effectively.