The modern state is a complex and multifaceted concept, and there are several major theories that seek to explain and understand its nature and functions. These theories help us gain insights into how states operate, their relationship with civil society, political regimes, and how they can contribute to or mitigate conflicts. Here, I will briefly describe some of the major theories on the modern state.

1. Classical Liberalism:
Classical liberalism is a political theory that emerged during the Enlightenment period in the 17th and 18th centuries. It emphasizes individual rights, limited government intervention, and the rule of law. According to classical liberals, the modern state's primary role is to protect individual freedoms and property rights. Civil society, in this view, should be autonomous and free from state interference, with voluntary associations and market forces guiding social and economic interactions.

2. Social Contract Theory:
Social contract theory, most notably associated with thinkers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, provides a foundational perspective on the modern state. According to this theory, individuals come together to form a state by consent, surrendering some of their natural freedoms in exchange for protection and the rule of law. The state's legitimacy and authority are derived from this social contract. In this context, the state serves as an intermediary between civil society and the protection of individual rights.

3. Marxism:
Marxist theory, developed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, offers a critical perspective