Theory question 101
The State and GovernmentSection A: Elements of Government
(a) Describe the term State.
(b) What are the features of a State?
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) A state is an organised political community of people living in a defined territory, with a government and sovereignty, free from outside control.
(b) Features: population (people); defined territory; government; sovereignty (independence, supreme power); recognition by other states; permanence/continuity; laws and a constitution; monopoly of the use of force.
Explanation
Define clearly, then explain each feature.