head of state
Definition
The head of state is the individual serving as the chief public representative of a country, embodying its continuity and legitimacy, often holding ceremonial duties. In different political systems, their role varies from being purely symbolic to having significant executive powers.
Analogy
Think of the head of state like the captain of a sports team; while the coach (head of government) makes strategic decisions and directs how the game is played, the captain represents the team, leads by example during ceremonial occasions, and often is the face that fans associate with the team's identity.
Related terms
Parliamentary System: A form of government where the executive branch derives its democratic legitimacy from its ability to command the confidence of the legislative branch and is also held accountable to that legislature.
Presidential System: A system of government where an executive branch exists and presides (hence 'presidential') separately from the legislature, to which it is not accountable and cannot, in normal circumstances, dismiss it.
Semi: Presidential System - A system of government in which a president exists alongside a prime minister and a cabinet, with the latter two being responsible to the legislature of a state
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