| Definition: | Definition: |
| The state refers to a politically organized territory with a defined population, geographical boundaries, and a sovereign government. | The government refers to the system or group of individuals responsible for the governance and administration of a state or a political entity. |
| Nature: | Function: |
| Represents the legal and political entity that exercises authority over its people and enforces laws within its jurisdiction. | Exercises political power and performs functions such as formulating policies, maintaining law and order, and providing public services. |
| Elements: | Composition: |
| Encompasses the population, territory, government, and sovereignty. | Consists of elected or appointed officials, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. |
| Permanence: | Temporary: |
| Relatively permanent entity that endures over time, even as governments may change. | Governments can change through elections, coups, or other political processes, while the state remains a continuous entity. |
| Authority: | Instrument of the State: |
| Possesses ultimate authority to govern and make decisions on behalf of its citizens. | Acts as the instrument through which the state exercises its authority and carries out its functions. |
| Legitimacy: | |
| Derives legitimacy from recognition by the international community and the consent of its citizens. | |
