ABSTRACT
In the introductory chapter of this book, the state in contemporary advanced societies is described as fulfilling at least three different functions or roles (see also Furåker 1987: 39–47). To be very concise, the argument can be summarised in the following way: The state maintains internal order and external relations, redistributes resources, and organises production. We can add that the state concept here refers to the political-administrative apparatuses not only on the central level but also on regional and local levels.
