What defines a state in terms of its political organization?

A state is defined by its political organization characterized by a permanent formal government and a structured system of social classes. This formal government typically includes established institutions that create and enforce laws, manage resources, and maintain order within a defined territory. The presence of social classes reflects the state's capacity for economic stratification, where individuals are divided into different groups based on wealth, occupation, or social status, distinguishing it from simpler forms of social organization.

In contrast, options that suggest temporary leadership or informal structures do not align with the established and enduring nature of a state. A state is recognized for its continuity and reliance on formal governance. Similarly, the absence of socioeconomic stratification contradicts the inherent structure of states, which often facilitate, and often institutionalize, such disparities. Finally, solely relying on tribal leadership does not encompass the complexity of a state, as tribal systems are typically less formal and more fluid than the structural and institutional frameworks characteristic of state governance.