When considering the state and its proper function in society, we must first begin with the notion of what a state is under various forms of society. In the totalitarian society, the state is the source of power and possesses absolute control over property. In the democratic society, the majority possesses power up to and including the power over private property. That is, the majority may vote themselves the property of the minority. Finally we arrive at the republican society, where the individual possesses power over his property and his person, and the power which he possesses serves as a check on both the majority and the state. We call these powers rights, and we acknowledge that they are sacrosanct and non-negotiable.
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