p With the division of society into classes and the establishment of the domination of one class, a special mechanism arises by which the ruling classes govern society and regulate the relations between classes, between separate individuals, between the individual and society, and between the country and other countries.

p This mechanism includes the state with its ramified network of institutions and organisations, political parties, trade unions, various youth societies, and other unions and associations.

The state represents the pivot of the political organisation of society. It is the main instrument by which the ruling class implements its policies and regulates class relations in society, and society’s relations with other countries.