Discuss which model of the role of the state best describes the UK? (50)

Before answering any essay question it is vital that you take a few moments to look at it and try to dig beneath the surface of what is wanted. This question is clearly a synoptic essay question and for this reason you should expect to include elements of both political theory and science. The best answers will have integrated reference to political thinkers within the answer (this means relevant reference to thinkers with their theories explained rather than simple name dropping), real life examples from UK politics (no need to mention international examples as the question specifies UK politics), synoptic links between real life politics and theories of the state and lastly a balanced argument that considers a multitude of theories.

A solid introduction would always attempt to define what is meant by the term state. A good candidate knows that this presents a prime opportunity to cite a thinker Max Webers definition of the state is used - “a human community that successfully claims the monopoly of the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory”. Given that this question is to be focussed on applied theory it would be wise in the introduction to state that the UK certainly does not follow the Marxist or totalitarian theory of the state (doing this now demonstrates you are aware that these theories exist, so you can gather maximum theory marks, but means you will not have to devote any time to these in the main body of your essay). You may wish to prove one of these, so you may briefly describe totalitarian theory with Mussolinis quote “All within the state, nothing outside the state, nothing against the state” followed by reference to anything that is outside the state or against the state, you may cite the existence of pressure group Uncut UK whilst the Conservative party held austerity central to their economics policy.

In the main body you may wish to include reference to neo-liberal, social contract, social democratic, pluralist and organic models of the state. Any of which I am happy to discuss in the interview. These would hold the structure of including definition or explanation of a concept, followed by an example of its relevance to UK politics, preferably a statistic, followed by argument it is not relevant and perhaps a judgement of balance.