Potential for force. In any case, that force more usually equates with sovereignty, as defined by the capacity for defence and war. As guarantee against external threats to it's existence. Otherwise, we view such force as unwelcome, and group it's manifestations under the heading of 'corruption'. And my point stands. Power is not authority. There is no power to subjugate an entire populace, without resistance. We should also allow as how a state is more than merely it's government.