Reading Carl Schmitt: a theory of the state

Abstract

This thesis critically analyses some selected works of Carl Schmitt in order to open up new debates in the theory of state. The nature of the state and the ways through which it governs society is the main theme that has been dealt with in this thesis. Carl Schmitt's theoretical concepts are examined and interpreted with respect to this question on the state. This thesis argues that Carl Schmitt's theory of the state provides political theory with new theoretical insights in studying the actual life of the state and his concepts are worth analysing to understand how modern societies are governed.