ABSTRACT
The central question of the relationship between society and the state is the need for the state and, therefore, the extent of its role. Dealing with such a question, two sets of competing values have to be weighed: those promoting security, material well being, social order, risk-sharing, sociability and culture; versus those values enhancing individual equality, freedom, justice and self-esteem. Such an issue would no doubt lead to a discussion of the preference for one set of values over the other. If the first set of values were chosen, then the conclusion would be that there is a need for a stronger role of the state. If, however, choice were geared towards the second set of values, then common sense would dictate that there is a need for a lesser role of the state. Although both sets of values are competing (collectivism versus individualism), yet both are still considered components of political development, the latter could accordingly be defined as either an increase or as a decrease in the role of the state. Solving the dilemma necessitates exploring the different political theories that have dealt with the state both in an ontological and epistemological sense.1
