Definitions and Theories of the State

WALT ..... review theories of distribution of power and investigate Marxist and pluralist theories of the state...... WILF.... Recall K&U of distribution of power theories (D/E)... be able to define the State and show K and U of Marxist and Pluralist theories of the state (D/C) .. be able to evaluate Marxist and pluralist theories of the state theoretically and using empirical evidence (A)

Instructions
Read and take notes from the presentation
Research (using links and textbooks) either the Marxist theory of the state or the pluralist theory of the state and prepare a 20 minute Powerpoint presentation

The State - Individual Reading

A) Definitions

1. How does Weber define the state?

2. How does Andrew Heywood define the state? (put his 5 points in your own words)

3. According to Weber when and why did the national state develop?

B) Theories of the State

1. In pluralism describe what is meant by the weather vane model, the neutral state model and the broker state model

2. How did Karl Marx describe the role of the modern state?

3. In Marxism what is the difference between Miliband's and Poulantzas views of the state?

4. In Marxism what are the contradictory functions of the state referred to by Claus Offe?

5. Explain why the New Right is critical of the role of the state?
Group Work - using the library and the website
Group A
Prepare a presentation on the pluralist view of the state and evaluate it.
Group B
Prepare a presentation on the Marxist view of the State and evaluate it.
Group C
Prepare a presentation on New Right theories of the state and evaluate it.