Which one of the following best defines the term 'State'?

1. The question asks for the best definition of the term 'State' in political science. 2. Political science generally identifies four essential elements of a State: Population, definite territory, organized government, and Sovereignty (meaning independent of external control and supreme internal authority). 3. Option (A) includes all four essential elements: a community of persons (Population), permanently occupying a definite territory (Territory), possessing an organized government (Government), and independent of external control (Sovereignty). This aligns closely with the standard definition. 4. Option (B) describes functions of a government (maintain law and order, protect natural rights, etc.) rather than defining the State itself. It also omits the crucial element of sovereignty (independence from external control). 5. Option (C) includes population, territory, and government but adds 'own culture, tradition', which are characteristics of a nation, not essential elements of a State. It also lacks the element of sovereignty. 6. Option (D) describes specific features of a particular type of government structure (central authority, responsible executive, independent judiciary) rather than the fundamental definition of a State. It also omits sovereignty. Therefore, option (A) provides the most accurate and comprehensive definition encompassing the four essential elements of a State.