What term refers to the ultimate political power in a state?

Sovereignty is the term that refers to the ultimate political power in a state. It denotes the supreme authority of a state to govern itself and make decisions without external interference. Sovereignty encompasses the ability to create laws, enforce them, and maintain order within a defined territory. This concept is foundational in political theory and international relations, as it establishes the idea that a state has control over its affairs and is recognized as such by other states.

In contrast, legitimacy pertains to the recognized right of a government to rule, which may or may not correlate with its actual power. Authority relates to the ability to enforce laws and compel obedience but doesn't inherently include the idea of absolute power like sovereignty does. Dominion often implies control or ownership over territory but lacks the broader political connotation that sovereignty carries. Thus, sovereignty accurately captures the essence of ultimate political power within a state.