Difference Between State and Government
In everyday conversation the terms state and government are often used interchangeably, which is a mistake; but then what is the difference between state and government? That is what we will clarify for you below. Do not worry if you do not have the slightest idea about it, since even King Louis XIV was wrong to make use of these concepts when he said “I am the State.” Difference Between State and Government
Political scientists make a clear distinction between government and state and this distinction is the one that we explain below, therefore, if you have doubts about it or simply want a little more information; continue reading.
CONDITION
The State contains four elements: population, territory, government and sovereignty. In other words, it is an organic concept of which the government is a part. Unlike the government, the state is more or less permanent, it is maintained over time regardless of various changes occurring.
It is generally made up of all citizens, including those who are chosen to form part of the government. On the other hand, when it is said that the State possesses sovereignty, what it refers to is that it has absolute and unlimited authority in relation to the matters that are its own; In other words, it does not depend on any other State for the decisions that concern it to be taken.
The State is an abstract concept and all States are identical in character and nature. They manifest or act through their governments.
GOVERNMENT
It is a less comprehensive concept that is closely linked to that of the State. He is an agent of the latter, for this reason, in democracies he is considered a servant of the State. It would be more or less like the brain of a living organism.
Governments are temporary and change quite frequently. The death of a regent or the holding of elections does not mean a change of the state, but of the government. Only a select group of citizens are elected to rule.
The organs of government are the executive, legislative and judicial powers. The select group of chosen people will handle these three powers.
Finally, the government does not have sovereignty, but its power derives from the State through the Constitution. It is a concrete element that manifests itself and acts according to the requirements of the State.