state...theoretically and practically

In this book, political thinker Harold Lasky aims to explore the nature of the modern state and explain this nature by studying its characteristics revealed by its history. In light of these features, he attempts to develop a theory of the state that suits this history more than the classical theory. In the book, he presents his theory about the state and its components, and believes that one of its most important characteristics is the "e;coercive characteristic,"e; meaning the state's ability or possession of the means that allow it to force its subjects to obey it. Lasky believes that the only justification for this coercive power is the extent to which the state fulfills its obligations towards its subjects, and here He says, "e;The state's claim to obedience is based on its will and ability to ensure complete satisfaction of what citizens need. There should be no bias in its performance of this function and this jurisdiction. Whenever the effort made by the state deviates towards serving an interest belonging to a group within the scope of society, we find that "e;It is possible that a revolution will occur sooner or later."e;