A state in political science is a political entity characterized by a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and sovereignty-the supreme authority to enforce laws and maintain order within its borders without external control

. It is distinguished from other social groups by its purpose of establishing order and security

. Key features of a state include:

• Territory: A state occupies a specific geographic area with recognized boundaries

• Population: It consists of people who live permanently within that territory

• Government: The state has an organized political structure that creates and enforces laws

• Sovereignty: It holds the ultimate authority and monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force within its territory, as famously defined by Max Weber

• Recognition: A state typically has the capacity to enter into relations with other states internationally

The state is different from a nation (which refers to a group of people sharing a common identity, culture, or history) and from a government (which is the organization that exercises authority on behalf of the state)

. A nation-state is a state that derives its legitimacy from representing a particular nation within a defined territory

. Historically, states emerged as centralized political organizations to manage increasingly complex societies, often driven by the need for security and order

. The modern concept of the state developed in Europe from the 16th century onwards, emphasizing sovereignty and centralized authority

. In summary, the state is a fundamental political unit that organizes society within a defined territory, enforces laws, and holds sovereign power, distinguishing it from other social or cultural entities