A centralized state is a political system where power and authority are concentrated in a single central government or authority, rather than being distributed among regional or local governments. In such a state, the central government holds the primary decision-making power, controlling legislative, executive, and often judicial functions, with minimal delegation to subdivisions like states, counties, or municipalities

. This central authority is responsible for making and enforcing laws, maintaining order, regulating commerce, and managing national resources uniformly across the entire territory. The centralized system often features a clear chain of command and can enable efficient governance and national unity, though it may limit local autonomy and input from lower levels of government or the public

. In summary, a centralized state is governed by one dominant authority that directs the entire state's affairs, ensuring uniform policies and administration throughout its territory