A "Hard State"

 A "hard state" refers to a type of government that is characterized by:

 * Strong Central Authority: Power is concentrated within the state, and decision-making is typically hierarchical.

 * Capacity for Coercion: The state possesses and is willing to use significant coercive means, such as a strong military, police force, and legal system, to maintain law and order and enforce its will.

 * Strict Enforcement of Laws: Laws are generally applied rigorously and consistently.

 * Maintenance of Order: A primary focus is on ensuring stability and preventing internal dissent or challenges to state authority.

 * Emphasis on National Security and Sovereignty: Protecting the state from both internal and external threats is a paramount concern.

Key characteristics often associated with a hard state include:

 * Robust Institutions: Strong and effective institutions capable of implementing and enforcing state policies.

 * Rule of Law (often selectively applied): While emphasizing law and order, the application of the rule of law might be more focused on maintaining state authority than on comprehensively protecting individual liberties against the state.

 * Decisive Action: The state is generally capable of acting swiftly and resolutely.

 * Potential for Limited Civil Liberties: The emphasis on order and security can sometimes come at the expense of individual freedoms and political pluralism.

 * Economic Management: Hard states often play a significant role in managing and directing the economy.

Examples often cited as having characteristics of a hard state (though the term can be debated and applied with nuances) include:

 * Singapore: Known for its strong, centralized government, strict laws, and emphasis on economic development and social order.

 * China: Characterized by a powerful, centralized state with a strong emphasis on maintaining stability and economic growth.

 * Historically, some authoritarian or military-dominated regimes have also been described as hard states.

It's important to note:

 * The term "hard state" is often used in contrast to a "soft state," which is characterized by weaker governance, corruption, and an inability to effectively enforce laws and maintain order.

 * Whether a state is "hard" or "soft" is not always a clear-cut distinction and can exist on a spectrum.

 * The concept of a "hard state" is often discussed in the context of state capacity, national security, and economic development.

 * Some argue that while a hard state can provide stability and security, it may also come at the cost of democracy, human rights, and political freedoms. Others argue that in certain contexts, a strong, decisive state is necessary for development and stability.

In international relations, the concept of a "hard state" often relates to a state's "hard power," which is its ability to influence other actors through coercive means such as military and economic strength. A state with a strong internal "hard state" structure is often perceived as having greater potential for exercising hard power on the international stage.