STATE IN THE ECONOMY OF THE XXI CENTURY: POLITICAL ECONOMY INTERPRETATION

Abstract

Author is considering the role of state in the contemporary economy from the point of view of Marxist methodology that clarifies presentation of the points of disagreements which take place among scholars, and, also uses the potential of foreseeing in Marxism. In the paper the thesis is stated that contemporary state is focused on the realization of three main types of interests: the state apparatus (bureaucracy), the ruling class (capital) and society as a whole. The contradictions between these groups of interests are investigated and the different already realized variants of compromise between them are considered, as well as other possible variants of such a compromise. The positions of different schools and currents of economic thought are analyzed from the point of their orientation predominantly to this or that interests, protection and realization of which are included in the functions of the state. The main points of disputes on these questions are marked. On the basis of the highlighting the main interests being defended by state the idea of three forms of state is formulated: state-bureaucrat, statecapital and state-society. Author treats the development of economic functions of a state in the conditions of late capitalism as transformation of state itself into the functioning capitalist. From the point of view of historical development of the state functions, the probable shifts in these functions are treated as response to the challenges connected with the evolution of modern economy. For instance, the usage of newly formed post-market (or transitory to post-market) relations in the economic functions of state is investigated. These transitory post-market relations are increasing the potential possibilities to implement the state function of social interests’ representative. As one of the probable variants of possible evolution of contemporary state and the reasons for the shift into the liberal-conservative direction are analyzed, as well as the workable alternative for this shift.