PYQ Vault · Paper 1 · Theories of the State
Comment on the pluralist theory of the state.
How the answer moves
The flow snapshot — the routes in, the body, the counter-view and the routes out.
Flow snapshot — how the answer moves
Intro routes
R1 revolt against monistic sovereignty → state = one association among many reaction to Hegelian statism → society a web of associations → state mediates, does not command
Body flow
Laski (federal society → federal authority; “keystone”) → Maclver (associations precede state; service state “commands because it serves”) → Dahl → polyarchy, no centre wholly sovereign
Counter-view
group inequality → wealthy interests get greater access → Mills’ elite convergence
Conclusion routes
R1 realistic account of democratic politics → fits federalism, pressure groups, judicial review liberty safer when no single centre can close the political field
Model answer
Handwritten, in the form it would be written in the examination hall.
