Weber’s 1919 lecture, Politics as a Vocation , provides the definitive roadmap for how the modern state emerged and why it looks the way it does today. The Core Definition: Control of Force

Decisions are made "without regard to persons," based on written files and regulations rather than favors or family ties. The "Iron Cage"

Power held because of an individual’s extraordinary personality or perceived "gift of grace" (think revolutionary leaders).

Power held because "that’s how it’s always been" (think Kings and tribal chiefs).