@adaoist do you have a particular formulation of the state you think functions best?
@exiliaex The best way to understand the state is to realize it is a monopoly. It is a monopoly on making and enforcing laws and taxes; it owns all the land (and rents it out). It sets up a social hierarchy with its decision makers at the top.
The MLs can admit the state is the final decision maker but insist it is subordinate to the people, when that is just ludicrous. States mean concentrating power OVER the people. There has never been any other kind of state.
But maybe a longer answer is in order, which is why I made this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXVC1ZMSNAM
@exiliaex I also made a whole series on why I'm an anarchist and not a Marxist, but I don't know if anyone will watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po_7LAnkPJQ&list=PL3waFZldV-Y2v4Udva9kgk-M1yOVbecY1
@adaoist i'll watch through both! thank you for the explanation and for taking the time to make and share these videos.
the only question i have, with regard to the explanation you wrote out to me is: How would you distinguish power "over" people versus power "subordinate" to people? Liberals and MLs and even a lot of anarchists tend to boil it down to questions of democracy. That, as long as people are consciously applying their will to the political system, as in the case of democracy, that it is "subordinate" to them. I'm curious how you think about it.