The Stratified State

This collection of essays in The Stratified State explores the complex relationships between the state and economy, focusing on duality, myth, and crisis.

In The Stratified State, a collection of essays delves into the intricate relationships between the state and the economy, examining three pivotal themes: duality, myth, and crisis. The authors explore the dual nature of the state, highlighting the tension between the welfare and warfare functions, the roles of social integration and exploitation, and the interplay between public and private institutions. This exploration aims to clarify the distinctions between genuine and misleading dualisms that shape our understanding of governance and economic structures.

The essays also address the pervasive myths that underpin modern society, which allow various forms of domination, such as that of whites over blacks, men over women, and the wealthy over the poor. The editors critically analyze the prevalent belief that the state and market operate as separate entities, as well as the notion of a unified national interest. By dismantling these myths, the authors seek to reveal the complexities of power dynamics and the implications for social justice.

Lastly, the theme of crisis is thoroughly examined, as the state faces significant challenges due to the lack of a comprehensive theory of its functioning and the evolving nature of its welfare and warfare roles. The essays advocate for a radical institutionalist perspective, emphasizing the necessity for greater public engagement in policymaking and evaluation, ultimately aiming to foster a more equitable and participatory political landscape.