For decades, the state in Argentina was criticized for its performance—characterized by inefficiency, corporate capture, persistent inflation, and an inability to maintain stable regulations. However, in recent years, the discourse has undergone a significant shift. Instead of merely critiquing the state's mismanagement, there is now a fundamental questioning of whether the state's intervention is even legitimate. This transformation reflects a broader trend, as discussions around the legitimacy of public institutions are being observed across various regions worldwide.

Notably, political theorist Francis Fukuyama pointed out that the contemporary issue is not rooted in a too-powerful state, but rather in a weakened state that struggles to perform its functions and is often hampered by internal vetoes and conflicting interests. This political decay signals a failure of the state to command confidence rather than an overreach in its powers. As states lose their ability to execute policies effectively, the legitimacy of their very existence is brought into question.

In addition, Martin Gurri's concept of the 'public rebellion' emphasizes that society is becoming hyper-connected, leading to increased scrutiny and demand for accountability from public institutions. This changing landscape calls into question not just the efficacy but also the fundamental legitimacy of the state's role in society, particularly as citizens become more empowered to challenge traditional institutions.