State and Rulership

Abstract

Max Weber was not born in Arcadia. Practically all the contexts in which he analyses the state are shot through with the idea that the state is primarily a relationship of force and rule.¹ It is characterised by a structure of command and compliance, and can only exist if those who are ruled accept this rule. Weber did not intend to reduce the state to this relationship of rule, but he often enough emphasised that the state could not be understood without taking account of this relationship. This was not only true for the state but for every social relationship, every social institution and every social action. As far as Weber was concerned, “all areas of communal action” were marked by rulership,² which is accordingly a universal element of human existence and which is among the most elementary conditions for the consolidation of social relationships. It permits “rational consociation (Vergesellschaftung) to arise out of amorphous communal activity (Gemeinschaftshandeln).”³

I too was born in Arcadia.

I too have sworn to liberty.

But into the worst the mass does lead itself.

And the shrewdest, the best, the most fitting,

By far the most acceptable to free souls,

Is really only, I cannot deny:

Fixed law and steadfast command.

(Theodor Fontane, Fester Befehl)