The State: Theories and Issues

This text provides an overview of the main theoretical approaches to the study of the state, including pluralism, Marxism, institutionalism, feminism, green theory, and more. It covers key empirical and theoretical developments, offers a wide range of voices and perspectives, and includes new chapters on sovereignty, security, territory, capital, nationalism, and populism. It is ideal for students studying all aspects of the state.

Format: Hardback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Rewritten text:

The state is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been the subject of intense scholarly inquiry for centuries. In recent years, the study of the state has become increasingly interdisciplinary, drawing on insights from a wide range of disciplines, including political science, sociology, economics, history, and cultural studies. This text, written by a team of experts, provides a comprehensive introduction to all of the main competing theoretical approaches to the study of the state, including pluralism, Marxism, institutionalism, feminism, green theory, and more.

Pluralism is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the diversity and complexity of the state. Pluralists argue that the state is not a monolithic entity but rather a collection of different institutions, each with its own interests and priorities. These institutions include the government, the economy, the media, the military, and civil society organizations. Pluralists believe that these institutions interact with each other in complex ways, shaping the nature and dynamics of the state.

Marxism is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the economic and social basis of the state. Marxists argue that the state is a tool of the ruling class to maintain their control over the means of production and distribute wealth and power. Marxists believe that the state can be overthrown by a revolutionary movement that will bring about the establishment of a socialist society.

Institutionalism is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the importance of institutions in shaping the state. Institutionalists argue that the state is not a monolithic entity but rather a collection of institutions that interact with each other in complex ways. These institutions include the legal system, the political system, the economic system, and the social system. Institutionalists believe that these institutions are important for maintaining stability and order in society.

Feminism is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the gender-based discrimination and inequality that exist within the state. Feminists argue that the state is a patriarchal institution that perpetuates gender-based violence and discrimination. Feminists believe that the state can be transformed by promoting gender equality and women's rights.

Green theory is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the environmental and sustainability concerns of the state. Green theorists argue that the state is responsible for protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. Green theorists believe that the state can be transformed by promoting renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting natural resources.

In addition to these theoretical approaches, the text also includes a new issues section that enables readers to apply these key concepts and theoretical approaches to important developments in the state today. The issues section includes coverage of globalisation, global financial uphe

upheavals, Brexit, Covid-19, and social movements such as Black Lives Matter. The issues section provides analysis of the impact of these developments on the state and offers insights into the challenges and opportunities that they present.

This new edition of the text offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the state, providing both a firm grounding in the key concepts and critical engagement with contemporary controversies and debates. The text is ideal for those studying all aspects of the state, including political science, sociology, economics, history, and cultural studies.

In conclusion, the study of the state is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires a multidisciplinary approach. This text provides a comprehensive introduction to all of the main competing theoretical approaches to the study of the state, including pluralism, Marxism, institutionalism, feminism, green theory, and more. The new issues section enables readers to apply these key concepts and theoretical approaches to important developments in the state today, providing a holistic overview of the field and deeper dives into key issues. This text is ideal for those studying all aspects of the state, including political science, sociology, economics, history, and cultural studies.

Weight: 561g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350328303
Edition number: 2 ed