Which term describes a political entity consisting of a defined territory and organized government?

• A. Nation
• B. Government
• C. State
• D. Society

Answer: (C)

A state is the political unit that combines a defined geographic territory with a centralized authority capable of making and enforcing laws within that territory. It also exercises sovereignty, meaning it has the ultimate power recognized by other states. This distinguishes it from a nation, which centers on the people and their identity; from government, which is the institution or group that runs the state; and from society, which is the broader community of people. Because the description specifies both defined territory and organized government, the term that fits best is state.