Institution which exercises monopoly over the legitimate use of power is called as?

IGNOU Post B. SC. Nursing entrance-2019

Applied Sociology

Easy

Appeared in: IGNOU Post B. SC. Nursing entrance-2019

Explanation

A political institution, specifically the state, is uniquely defined by its claim to a monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force within its territory.
This foundational concept in political science was articulated by sociologist Max Weber.
This monopoly means that only the state, through its agents like the police and military, has the socially accepted right to use coercion to enforce laws and maintain public order.

Option B: A religious institution's power is based on moral or spiritual authority and shared beliefs. It influences behavior through faith and norms, not a legitimate right to use physical force.
Option C: An economic institution's power comes from controlling resources, production, and markets. It influences behavior through financial incentives and constraints, not lawful coercion.
Option D: An educational institution's influence stems from transmitting knowledge, skills, and cultural values. It shapes behavior through socialization and learning, not a monopoly on physical force.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of the State and Political Institutions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Political institutions create and enforce laws that govern nursing practice, including the Nurse Practice Act, which defines the scope of practice and requirements for licensure.
Public health policies, such as mandatory reporting of certain diseases, vaccination programs, and quarantine orders during epidemics, are enacted and enforced by the state, directly impacting nursing roles and responsibilities.
What if a public health emergency is declared? The state, as the primary political institution, has the authority to enforce measures like mandatory isolation or treatment, and nurses are on the front lines of implementing these legally-mandated actions.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrases in the question: "monopoly" and "legitimate use of power."
Recognize that this is a core definition from sociology and political science related to the nature of the state.
Consider the function of each option. A religious institution uses faith, an economic one uses money, and an educational one uses knowledge as their primary tool of influence.
Recall that the government or state is the entity that controls the police and military, which are the primary instruments of legitimate force.
Conclude that "Political Institution" is the correct term that encompasses the state and its unique monopoly on legitimate power.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani p. 87-89