This chapter critically examines the concept of the 'regulatory state' and explores the emergence of the 'post-regulatory state' as an alternative framework for understanding governance. It challenges the traditional view that regulation is primarily a state-driven process, emphasizing the increasing role of non-state actors and the diversity of regulatory mechanisms. The chapter argues that the regulatory state is not a monolithic entity but a complex system involving various actors and institutions. It highlights the limitations of state law in regulating economic and social activities and suggests that regulatory governance can function without relying heavily on state law. The analysis also critiques the assumption that regulation is primarily a state function, pointing out that non-state regulation and non-state law can play significant roles. The chapter discusses the shift from a hierarchical model of regulation to a more pluralistic and decentralized approach, emphasizing the importance of norms, practices, and community-based control mechanisms. It explores different theoretical perspectives, including the Legal Theory of Autopoiesis and governmentality, which challenge the traditional regulatory state model. The chapter concludes by suggesting that the post-regulatory state represents a more flexible and adaptive approach to governance, incorporating a wider range of norms and institutions. The analysis underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of regulatory governance that accounts for the diverse and complex nature of modern societies.This chapter critically examines the concept of the 'regulatory state' and explores the emergence of the 'post-regulatory state' as an alternative framework for understanding governance. It challenges the traditional view that regulation is primarily a state-driven process, emphasizing the increasing role of non-state actors and the diversity of regulatory mechanisms. The chapter argues that the regulatory state is not a monolithic entity but a complex system involving various actors and institutions. It highlights the limitations of state law in regulating economic and social activities and suggests that regulatory governance can function without relying heavily on state law. The analysis also critiques the assumption that regulation is primarily a state function, pointing out that non-state regulation and non-state law can play significant roles. The chapter discusses the shift from a hierarchical model of regulation to a more pluralistic and decentralized approach, emphasizing the importance of norms, practices, and community-based control mechanisms. It explores different theoretical perspectives, including the Legal Theory of Autopoiesis and governmentality, which challenge the traditional regulatory state model. The chapter concludes by suggesting that the post-regulatory state represents a more flexible and adaptive approach to governance, incorporating a wider range of norms and institutions. The analysis underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of regulatory governance that accounts for the diverse and complex nature of modern societies.