Notes
Notes
- The divine origin theory posits that the State derives its authority and
legitimacy from a higher, divine source.
- This theory has deep historical roots and has been associated with
various religious beliefs and cultures.
- The notion that the State's laws and authority are divinely ordained
and must be obeyed as part of religious duty.
- The concept that the ruler, often considered a monarch, has a divine
right to rule, and disobedience is seen as a violation of divine will.
- The divine origin theory has been used to justify absolute monarchies
and the concentration of power in the hands of a single ruler.
- The force theory of the state asserts that the State is born out of the
conquest and subjugation of one group of people by another through
the application of force and coercion.
- The ruler or ruling class maintains power through the use of military
force, coercion, and the suppression of opposition.
- This theory stands in contrast to theories like the divine right of kings
or social contract theory, which emphasize consent and legitimacy as
the basis for government.
- Critics argue that the force theory tends to justify oppressive and
authoritarian regimes and overlooks the importance of consent and the
well-being of citizens.
- It highlights the role of power, coercion, and domination in the
establishment and perpetuation of government, which may not
necessarily align with principles of democracy and individual rights.
- The organic theory of the State likens society or the State to a living
organism.
- The organic analogy emphasizes the unity of the State and the
interdependence of individuals and society.
Strengths of the Organic Theory
- The State does not grow, live, or die in the same way as an organism.
- The analogy should not be pressed too far, as it can lead to illogical
and harmful conclusions.
- It should be remembered that the State is not an organism but shares
some similarities with one
- The idealistic concept of the State can be divided into extreme and
moderate forms.
- Extreme idealists believe that individuals exist for the sake of the
State, and their individuality is subordinated to the collective society.
- They believe that the State's purpose is to create opportunities for the
moral development of individuals.
- Herbert Spencer and J.S. Mill represent extreme and moderate forms
of individualism, respectively.
Defense of Individualism
- Individualism aligns with the idea of the "survival of the fittest" from a
biological perspective.
Drawbacks of Individualism
- The notion that the State is inherently evil is questioned, as the State
can be a positive force for society.
- The concept of the "survival of the fittest" may neglect the protection
of the weak, poor, and destitute.