Marxian (Class) Theory of Nature and Functions of the State

In our discussion on the Marxian (Class) theory of origin of the State, we have seen that the Marxian conception of state is rooted in the understanding that the State is an instrument in the hands of the propertied class of society. The State originated at a particular time in historical evolution and is linked with the emergence of private property. The State is treated as serving the dominant interest of society. By implication, when there are no classes and no dominant interest, the State is not required. It will, what Engels and Lenin call, ‘wither away’⁸¹ when class society is abolished.

Though Marx himself did not dwell specifically on the theory of the State, a general understanding of his position on the role and functions of the State in a capitalist society along with views of Engels and Lenin may help us outline class perspective on the State. This, we may call the orthodox Marxian perspective on the State. On the other hand, Marxian perspective, especially in the twentieth century, given by Antonio Gramsci, Louis Althusser, Ralph Miliband and Nicos Poulantzas present the neo-Marxian perspective of the state in a capitalist society.