States and Nations

What is the meaning of the quote “People will forget what you say or do, but never how you made them feel”?

It means emotional impact drives human action. Without feeling, people won’t act — emotions make us human.

Why is emotional movement important in politics and society?

Because feelings motivate change; without emotional connection, societies stay stagnant.

What are states classified by?

How much their leaders are subject to the will of the people.

What question defines this classification of the states?

Do leaders care about the people’s sentiments, or are they “the fox” — cunning and self-serving?

What are the main features of a liberal democracy?

• Free and fair elections

• Universal suffrage

• Personal liberty

• Protection of individual rights

What’s the main criticism of liberal democracy?

It may claim democratic values but fail to practice them fully

What defines an illiberal democracy?

Elections exist but with little protection for rights or freedoms; opposition is disadvantaged by state control of media.

Why is illiberal democracy called a “charade of democracy”?

It maintains the appearance of democracy without real fairness or accountability.

What is one fair criticism of this view of illiberal democracy/a charade of democracy?

Even illiberal leaders can genuinely care for their people — it’s not always corruption.

What defines an authoritarian state?

• No fair elections

• Rulers unaccountable to citizens

• Power centered on individuals, families, military, or a ruling party

• People are disempowered

What is a totalitarian state?

The most extreme form of authoritarianism — total control through political, military, or paramilitary force.

What maintains power in totalitarian regimes?

Fear, propaganda, and violence.

Why are checks and balances crucial in democracies?

To prevent abuse of power and ensure accountability.

What is a common criticism of all state types?

None are purely what they claim to be; even democracies can show authoritarian or oligarchic traits.

Example of democratic hypocrisy?

Nepotism and elitism in democratic systems like the U.S.

Why is democracy difficult compared to authoritarianism?

It requires constant debate, empathy, and valuing everyone’s voice equally.

What does “Man is born free and everywhere he is in chains” mean?

Humans themselves create the restrictions that limit their freedom.

What are theories of the state?

Perspectives on how politics works; not absolute truths but ways to understand political life.

What does institutionalism study?

Political structures — elections, systems, and laws — as they exist on paper.

What is the main flaw of institutionalism?

It ignores how people actually interpret, behave, and give meaning to laws.

Key question institutionalists ask?

Is this the best structure to have, and do checks and balances exist in practice?

What does pluralism believe?

Society has many competing groups, and government should act as a neutral arbitrator.

What is the main criticism of pluralism?

True neutrality is impossible — leadership can be biased, rhetoric extreme, and compromise rare.

What must individuals themselves believe in for pluralism to work?

Equality and human rights — otherwise, even fair rules will fail

What does elitism claim?

All societies are led by a small, unified elite — political, economic, or military leaders (the “iron law of oligarchy”).

What is “mobilization of bias”?

Manipulating systems or removing opponents to ensure certain outcomes.

What does elitism ignore?

Middle-class leadership and ordinary citizens’ influence.

What do elite theorists believe about government?

It’s manipulated by a select few to serve their interests.

What does class analysis focus on?

Economic structure and class conflict — the struggle between the bourgeoisie (capitalists) and proletariat (workers).

What drives politics according to class analysis?

The fight for power between those who own and those who labor.

What is socialism in political theory?

The belief that the state has a responsibility to care for citizens — through welfare, health, and education.

How does socialism differ by country?

In the U.S., it’s often viewed negatively, while elsewhere it’s linked to social responsibility.

What is the New Right movement?

A belief that the state should do as little as possible, except in policing and defense.

When did it emerge and who represented it?

In the past 30–40 years — leaders like Ronald Reagan and others in Germany and France.

What is the New Right’s main economic idea?

Privatization — handing public services to private companies.

What are the social effects of minimal state intervention?

Fewer public services → more unrest → more policing → more prisons → more control.

Why is the New Right criticized?

It benefits the wealthy and leads to inequality, dependence, and privatized punishment systems.

According to Max Weber, when does power become legitimate?

When it’s socially approved and embedded in norms or institutions.

What are Weber’s three types of authority?

• Traditional – Based on custom or family (e.g., monarchy)

• Charismatic – Based on personal qualities (e.g., revolutionary leaders)

• Legal-Rational – Based on laws and institutions (e.g., modern democracies)

What defines a decaying state or nation?

Dependence, hypocrisy, and loss of unity or moral purpose.