What Is Government?

Government is the institution through which a state is organised and governed.

Government and the State

A state is a political community with a defined territory, permanent population, government and sovereignty. Government is the body that makes and carries out decisions for the state. A government can change; the state continues.

Functions of Government

• Make laws and maintain order.
• Provide security and defend the territory.
• Collect taxes and manage public money.
• Provide public services such as schools, roads and hospitals.
• Protect rights and settle disputes.
• Represent the state internationally.

Why It Matters

Without government, there would be no agreed way to resolve disputes or provide services that individuals cannot provide alone.

Practice

1. Define government.
2. Name four functions of government.
3. Explain one difference between the state and the government.

Recap

Government makes and enforces decisions for the state. Its functions include law, security, services and representation.