Polity
2021
Union and State
Which one of the following best defines the term 'State'?
B.A politically organized people of a definite territory and possessing an authority to govern them, maintain law and order, protect their natural rights and safeguard their means of sustenance
C.A number of persons who have been living in a definite territory for a very long time with their own culture, tradition and government
D.A society permanently living in a definite territory with a central authority, an executive responsible to the central authority and an independent judiciary
A.A community of persons permanently occupying a definite territory independent of external control and possessing an organized government
Correct Answer: Option A
A 'State' in political science is a political organization of society, distinct from other social groups due to its specific purpose.
The essential elements of a State are:
- People: A community of persons permanently residing within the state.
- Government: An organized structure to enforce laws and administer the state.
- Territory: A defined and demarcated geographical boundary.
- Sovereignty: The state's supreme and independent authority in decision-making, both internally and externally. This implies independence from external control.
Option A encapsulates all these elements precisely.
Hence, option A is the correct answer.
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