Social Essence and Social Functions of the State: Comparative Legal Aspect

The article compares social essence and social function of the state. Following a thorough analysis of the phenomenon ‘the state’ it is possible to conclude that in general social essence of the state can be defined as its social designation. Attempts to understand a social designation of the state were made in antic times. In modern realities an approach prevails according to which the essence of the state is to ensure security of society whose interests it represents. Depending on the social groups whose interests the state represents one can distinguish between general social and class essence of the state activity. Being in the role of the subject vested with powers the state uses the power with intent. At the same time, the nature of the goal and the set of tasks to achieve this goal are defined by such phenomenon as ‘the functions of the state.’ The article investigates the functions of the state as a systematical phenomenon as a factual activity of the state connected with the solving of the set tasks. Such understanding of the functions of the state contributes to the conclusion that the content of functions defines the social essence of the state at a certain level of its historical development. In the system of the state’s functions social function plays a leading role. It is diverse in content and global in its activities. Its main task is to ensure social welfare and to create equal opportunities for all citizens to achieve it