Comment by catlikesshrimp

In medicine, a paternalistic attitude towards the patient from a point of authority (like a father) The doctor acts as if he knows more and knows what is better. The patient has his own preferences and priorities, but they don't necessarily match with what the doctor does.

I suppose a paternalistic state functions to satisfy the needs of the people, and to define those needs. The people get what the state says is best for them.