[Verse 1] The state's not neutral, standing above the fray It serves the ruling class in every way Bourgeoisie need power to maintain their hold The state becomes their weapon, strong and bold Police and courts and military might Keep workers down and profits burning bright [Chorus] State as class instrument, that's the key Relative autonomy, sets it free Law stabilizes what the rich have made Miliband and Poulantzas showed the way [Verse 2] But Poulantzas said there's something more to see The state has room to move, autonomy It mediates between the ruling parts When capitalists have competing hearts Sometimes it acts against what bosses want To save the system from its own discord [Chorus] State as class instrument, that's the key Relative autonomy, sets it free Law stabilizes what the rich have made Miliband and Poulantzas showed the way [Bridge] Miliband argued direct control is real Elite connections that the rulers seal From boardrooms straight to government halls The same old faces answer power's calls [Verse 3] The law pretends to treat us all the same But property rights win this rigged game It stabilizes class relations tight Makes exploitation seem like legal right Courts protect the wealth that few possess While calling it justice, nothing less [Chorus] State as class instrument, that's the key Relative autonomy, sets it free Law stabilizes what the rich have made Miliband and Poulantzas showed the way [Outro] The state machine keeps capital alive Through law and force, the system will survive Until the workers break these golden chains The ruling class forever always reigns
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