Theory question 101
The State and GovernmentSection A (answer two questions from this section)
What is a state? What characteristic must a state possess?
Show the model answer
Model answer
Definition: a state is a politically organised body of people living in a definite territory, with a government and sovereignty (free from outside control).
Population: a group of people living together permanently.
Territory: a defined area with boundaries (land, territorial waters and airspace).
Government: the machinery that makes, carries out and interprets laws for the state.
Sovereignty: supreme power inside the territory and independence from outside control.
Also accept: recognition by other states; permanence/continuity.
Explanation
Give a clear definition, then explain each characteristic in a sentence or two.