Hina Zafar
A state represents a political and legal entity exercising sovereign authority over a defined territory and population. It establishes and enforces laws, ensuring stability, order, and the well-being of its inhabitants. This organized structure forms the basis of governance, facilitating the management of social, economic, and political affairs within its jurisdiction.The state is characterized by four fundamental elements: population, territory, government, and sovereignty. Population constitutes the social foundation of the state, as the existence of a governing structure presupposes people to be governed. Territory refers to a geographically bounded area where the state’s authority is exercised. The government functions as the executive, legislative, and judicial apparatus, responsible for creating and enforcing laws while maintaining public welfare and order. Sovereignty denotes the state’s supreme authority, free from external control, allowing it to operate independently within its defined borders.The emergence of the state has been explained through various theoretical perspectives, notably the Divine Theory, Force Theory, and Social Contract Theory. Each offers a distinct interpretation of how states originated and justified their authority.The Divine Theory posits that the state and its rulers derive authority from divine will. Historically prevalent in ancient and medieval times, this theory asserts that rulers are chosen by a higher power, making their authority unquestionable. Central to this perspective is the belief in the divine origin of political power, where rulers act as God’s representatives on Earth. People are morally bound to obey such rulers, considering it a religious duty. Monarchs wield absolute authority, and their decisions are deemed infallible, rendering them unaccountable to the populace. However, they remain answerable to divine judgment alone.
This concept persists in certain modern states where religious doctrines influence governance. For instance, Saudi Arabia’s monarchy operates under Islamic principles, with the king recognized as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Similarly, in Iran, the Supreme Leader holds both religious and political authority under Islamic law. Despite its historical significance, the Divine Theory faces criticism for fostering unaccountable rule and opposing democratic principles. Its relevance has diminished in contemporary governance, as most modern states have embraced democratic systems emphasizing public accountability and participatory governance.The Force Theory, another explanatory model, asserts that the state emerged through the exercise of power and domination. Strong individuals or groups established control over weaker populations through conquest and coercion. The use of force enabled these dominant groups to impose rules, maintain authority, and establish governing institutions.Key features of the Force Theory include the application of power as the primary means of establishing control, the process of conquest and subjugation, and the imposition of laws to sustain dominance. Historical examples include the colonial empires of European powers, where military conquest facilitated the establishment of colonial states. In modern contexts, elements of this theory are evident during conflicts or wars where political authority is secured or maintained through military force. Instances of state-sponsored suppression of political dissent through police and military interventions also reflect the enduring applicability of this theory in certain geopolitical scenarios.The Social Contract Theory presents a more consensual perspective on the state’s origin, emphasizing mutual agreements between individuals and governing authorities. Philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau championed this theory, asserting that individuals voluntarily relinquish certain freedoms to the state in exchange for protection, security, and societal welfare.The Social Contract Theory underscores the state as a product of collective consent, where governance is legitimized through the will of the people. Citizens agree to abide by laws and regulations, trusting that the government will ensure their well-being and safeguard their rights. In turn, the government is obligated to act in the public interest, upholding justice, maintaining order, and providing essential services.A compelling modern illustration of the Social Contract Theory emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Governments worldwide implemented measures such as lockdowns, mask mandates, and vaccination campaigns to curb the spread of the virus. Citizens generally complied with these restrictions, trusting that such actions were necessary for public health and safety. In Pakistan, adherence to social distancing protocols, mask-wearing mandates, and vaccination drives demonstrated the practical application of the social contract, reflecting mutual cooperation between the state and its citizens. The state, defined by its essential elements and shaped by diverse theoretical interpretations, remains a dynamic institution evolving in response to societal needs. The COVID-19 pandemic exemplified the enduring relevance of the Social Contract Theory, highlighting the collaborative relationship between governments and citizens in addressing collective challenges. As the state continues to adapt, its foundational principles of authority, governance, and mutual responsibility remain central to its enduring significance in the modern world.
Hina Zafar
Student of BS English Literature
University of Sahiwal
