Ideology is important when discussing the role of the state, but it is not an informed view. In Britain, our government has policies such as education and public services which, in turn, help people achieve their goals in life. It also has a system of benefits for the sick and unemployed. If we did not have this type of government, there would be an increase in crime, disease and unemployment. The welfare state is a state that protects the well-being and health of all its members. The welfare state achieves this by helping people reach their full potential by providing free education from the ages of four to eighteen and in Scotland, students receive scholarships to further their studies. By benefiting from an education, it allows people to realize their potential and obtain the career they want to have, but as a result, it creates a healthier and larger workforce, which benefits the Company. Not only does the welfare state ensure this, but it also provides benefits to the unemployed, whereas the minimal state provides only minimal laws that would only ensure the security of the land. The only legitimate function of the minimal state is the protection of individuals against fraud, assault, breach of contract and theft. The functions of government institutions are the courts, the army and the police. The functions of government are legislative power, judicial power, various emergency situations.