SAFIA ABDULLAH (IIUI)

THE ORIGIN AND EVOLUTION OF STATE

1.

The origin of state can be traced back to the emergence of human civilization. State is
defined as a politically organized community or territory under the control of a
sovereign government. The concept of state developed over time and was influenced by
various factors including social, economic, and political changes.

The first states emerged in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the
Indus Valley around 4000 BCE. These states were characterized by centralized
government, a ruling class, and a hierarchical social structure. They also developed
systems of law, trade, and religion.

In Europe, the concept of the state developed during the medieval period with the
emergence of feudalism. Feudal lords controlled territories through a system of
vassalage, in which they provided protection to peasants in exchange for loyalty and
service. Over time, the power of monarchs grew, and they established centralized states,
such as England and France.

The modern concept of the state emerged during the Enlightenment era in the 18th
century. Philosophers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau proposed the idea of
social contract theory, which argued that individuals agree to give up some of their
rights in exchange for protection and security provided by the state.

In the 19th century, the industrial revolution and the rise of capitalism led to the
emergence of nation-states. These were based on the principle of a common culture,
language, and shared history. Nation-states were used to legitimize political power and
often led to the suppression of minority cultures and languages.

Today, the concept of state has evolved, and there are many different types of states,
including democratic and totalitarian governments. The role of the state has also
significantly expanded, with states now providing essential services such as education,
healthcare, and social welfare
 THE CONCEPT OF WELFARE STATE IN
WESTERN AND ISLAMIC POLITICAL
SYSTEM
2.

The concept of welfare state is a political and economic system in

which the government takes responsibility for the well-being of its
citizens, especially in providing social services such as healthcare,
education, and social welfare programs. The idea of the welfare state is
prevalent in both Western and Islamic political systems.

In Western political systems, the concept of the welfare state emerged in

the 20th century as a response to the Great Depression and World War II.
The rise of socialist and social democratic parties led to the establishment
of welfare states in many Western European countries. The basic principle
of the welfare state is that the government has a duty to provide for the
social and economic needs of its citizens.

In Islamic political systems, the concept of the welfare state is known as

the “Welfare Society” or “Islamic Socialism.” Islamic countries believe that
the state has a social and moral responsibility towards its citizens and
should provide essential services such as healthcare, education, and social
welfare. The concept of zakat (charitable giving) is also integral to the
Islamic welfare state, which is used to provide for the poor and needy.

However, there are differences between the Western and Islamic welfare
states. Islamic welfare states aim to promote social welfare while
simultaneously adhering to the laws and principles of the Islamic faith. On
the other hand, the Western welfare state is based on secular principles

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and aims to promote social welfare through democratization and social
equality.

In conclusion, while there are differences between the Western and

Islamic welfare states, both recognize the state's responsibility to provide
for the needs of its citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

THE IDEOLOGIES COMMUNISM AND

SOCIALISM AND DEMOCRACY
3.

Communism and socialism are ideological systems that

prioritize collective ownership of resources, equal
distribution of wealth, and centralized planning for
economic and social affairs. Both of these ideologies
emphasize cooperation between individuals and the
community, and share the belief that government
intervention is necessary for a fair and just society.

Democracy, on the other hand, is a political system that

emphasizes the power of the people to make decisions about
their own lives through voting and representation. It
prioritizes individual rights and freedoms, and encourages
popular participation in government.

While communism and socialism have historically been

associated with authoritarian regimes, democracy

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emphasizes the importance of free and fair elections,
separation of powers, and individual liberties. These
differences reflect the different priorities and values of each
of these ideological systems.