Anthropologists Akhil Gupta and James Ferguson describe one dynamic of the state as “vertical encompassment.” Identify what they mean when using this term to describe the state.
the militarization of society by the state
the overarching awareness of the state’s perpetual presence
the desire of the state to use force in order to control society
the upward mobility of state officials to higher levels of power
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Vertical encompassment refers to the state's ability to extend its reach and authority over all aspects of society, covering everything from individual behavior to economic activity to cultural practices. This means that the state is able to exert power in a top-down manner, creating a hierarchy where it is at the top and all other social structures are underneath it. This dynamic allows the state to control and govern all aspects of society, ensuring its dominance and influence over the lives of its citizens.
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