Does the state belong to the people, or do the people belong to the state?

What is the function of the state?

__________________
"Nothing is true. Everything is permitted." - Hassan-i-Saba

From what perspective are you asking? From a specific country or more in a "natural" sense? I suspect the answer will also vary based on the beliefs of the people who answer. According to the political compass you have in your signature, I am an Economic -4.13 and Soc/Lib Auth -4.87. Puts me right there with the Dali Lama and Ghandi. I personally believe that the state belongs to the people and exists to benefit the people.

__________________
Catz: "And, the ever-sage Volvo Driver:"

I'm just talking about it in the general sense. To demonstrate two extremes, fascists believe people belong entirely to the state, and anarcho-capitalists believe the state shouldn't even exist because everyone shoud, essentially, own their own state.

__________________
"Nothing is true. Everything is permitted." - Hassan-i-Saba