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An Introduction to Political Theory: NBSE Class 11 Political Science
Here, you will find summaries, questions, answers, textbook solutions, pdf, extras etc. of (Nagaland Board) NBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 1: An Introduction to Political Theory. These solutions, however, should be only treated as references and can be modified/changed.
If you notice any errors in the notes, please mention them in the comments
Introduction
The chapter 1 (An Introduction to Political Theory) provides a comprehensive overview of the field of political theory, its scope, significance, and its application in various domains.
Political theory is an analytical study of ideas and doctrines related to political phenomena and institutions. It delves into the thoughts of great thinkers like Plato, Kautilya, and Marx on justice, law, political power, and obedience to authority. It also explores the conditions under which Machiavelli sought to separate politics from morality, and when Karl Marx presented the theory of Class War.
The scope of political theory is broad, encompassing constitutionalism, an evaluation of various forms of government, rule of law and judicial independence, conditions of freedom, equality and justice, and new rights such as the rights of children, privacy, and the “rights of the planet”.
The study of political theory is significant for several reasons. It is relevant to solving our problems in life, provides knowledge of our rights and duties, liberalizes our outlook, and promotes growth in the reasoning powers of the mind. It also emphasizes that politics is essentially the art of the possible, and that we should not expect too much from government.
The chapter also highlights that politics can occur in seemingly non-political domains such as family life, sports, and film awards. It advocates for a rationalist approach to politics, which means resolving political arguments and conflicts through reasoning. Various means of resolving political conflicts include political parties, elections, debates in the legislature, interest groups such as business groups and trade unions, and the courts.
Textual questions and answers
A. Long answer questions
1. Explain the meaning of Political Science with reference to:
(a) Politics as understood by the ancient Greek thinkers
Answer: The ancient Greek thinkers, such as Socrates, had a profound influence on the development of political theory. The term ‘political’ refers to something that is ‘public’ or concerned with what is common to the whole community. Socrates, for instance, was deeply involved in the public affairs of his city-state, Athens. He was accused of not worshipping the city’s gods, introducing new gods, and corrupting the youth of the state, which indicates that his ideas were seen as challenging the established political order. In fact, there lay certain political motives behind his death sentence.
(b) Traditional view about the subject-matter of politics
Answer: The traditional view of the subject-matter of politics revolves around the functions of government, the need for government, and the forms of government. It also involves questions pertaining to freedom, justice, and equality. The core functions of the government are to make law, implement law, and interpret law. The term ‘Politics’ in its modern usage refers to “the day to day public affairs and the actual problems of government”. Therefore, the term ‘Political Science’ is considered the most appropriate title for the discipline.
2. Discuss the following conceptions of Political Science:
(a) Behavioural conception of Politics
Answer: There had been a ‘Behavioural Revolution’ in politics after the Second World War. Charles Merriam, the intellectual Godfather of Behaviouralism, argued that Political Science should become scientifically accurate. Moreover, Political Science should concern itself with the behaviour of individuals and political groups, rather than the formal composition and powers of political institutions (the Legislative Assembly, the Executive, the Judiciary, Administrators or the Civil Services).
(b) Politics as the Struggle for Power
Answer: According to Max Weber, Bertrand Russell and other thinkers, the student of Political Science is faced with questions as to how political power is distributed in modern societies. Political scientists seek to discover which individuals and groups exercise power in a given society. They also examine the source of power. Sources of power may be many, such as hereditary right or success at the polls or illegal seizure of authority either by some military General or by a charismatic leader. Power may be utilized for doing social good or it may be misused by the powerful groups for their narrow selfish gains.
(c) Politics as Authoritative Allocation of Values
Answer: David Easton in his book ‘The Political System’ constructed a theory that came to be known as Systems Analysis. According to David Eston, politics is concerned with “Authoritative Allocation of Values”. His is a complex theory. Let us try to understand what he means by the words ‘Values’ and ‘Authoritative Allocation’. By “values” he means things desired by the people, whether they may be material goods or offices or other facilities. The phrase “Authoritative Allocation” here signifies “the binding or authoritative decisions” which may be taken only by the legislators or the executive and judicial bodies. No person or group of persons can have every thing it wants. Therefore, every political system is faced with the task of evolving such a criterion for the sharing of goods as will satisfy most members of the society. Politics, then, is about “Who Gets What, When and How?”
3. Discuss the scope or subject-matter of Political Science with reference to:
(a) The study of Political Philosophy
Answer: Political thinkers have added to the store of knowledge by their deliberations on concepts like freedom, justice, liberty and rights. Aristotle, Machiavelli, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, Marx and John Rawls speak of the way the state and society ought to be organised and the way the people ought to behave. The writings of these philosophers throw useful light on a wide variety of matters. No student of political science could avoid reference to their works. The modern Indian thinkers, M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan and Dr. Ambedkar seemed to be inspired both by ancient ideals and the Western notions of liberalism, humanism and Marxism. Amartya Sen made a notable contribution to the ongoing debate among scholars about equality and justice.
(b) The study of Organisation of Government
Answer: Traditional writers concentrated exclusively on institutions which made law, which enforced it and which settled disputes between two or more people. The behavioural revolution shifted the emphasis from “structures” to “processes”. But political scientists still dwell in detail on the major institutions of the State, such as the legislature, the executive, the judiciary and the local government. Forms of government, organs of government and distribution of powers among them constitute an important field of study under political studies.
(c) The study of Bureaucracy and its Behaviour
Answer: All Chief Executives—Kings, Prime Ministers and Presidents require permanent administrative agencies for the performance of their official duties. These agencies are manned by public officials. The study of the Executive, then, is to a large extent the study of the bureaucracy-the appointment, promotion and removal of the officials and their subordinate staff. The powers they exercise and the way they function are some of the most important issues to be examined by the political scientists.
4. Discuss the scope of Political Science with reference to:
(a) The study of Representation, Election and Voting Behaviour
Answer: Representation, election and voting behaviour constitute an important subdiscipline of political science. Elections are the means by which the people choose their representatives. Periodic elections based on universal franchise give legitimacy to the government. There is a direct relationship between electoral fairness and people’s confidence in the political system.
(b) A study of Political Parties and Pressure Groups
Answer: In a liberal democracy we find more than one party competing for political power. Under dictatorship, on the other hand, there is a “single mass party usually led by one man.” Many important questions of politics relate to the party system, the relative strength of parties and their function and behaviour. Along with parties, the pressure groups (also known as Interest Groups) play an important role in the passage of the various bills. It is, therefore, appropriate for political scientists to examine the tactics that they adopt to influence legislators and public officials.
(c) World Politics and International Organisation
Answer: World politics has been one of the most important concerns of political scientists. Problems such as the reform of the UN Security Council, peace and cooperation in South Asia, shape of European Union, arms control, environment protection and some new threats to world security arising out of Global Terrorism, have been exercising the minds of the students of political science in a big way. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) and agencies like the IMF and the World Bank safeguard the interests of the developed nations. The developing nations, therefore, would press for an “international economic system which is just and fair.”
5. What is Political Theory? Discuss its scope with reference to the following:
Answer: Political theory involves the analytical study of ideas and doctrines that relate to political phenomena and political institutions. Political theory is concerned with questions related to issues such as justice, freedom, equality, rule of law and so on.
(a) An Evaluation of Various Forms of Government
Answer: Political theory, as a field of study, is deeply involved in the evaluation of various forms of government. This evaluation is not just about understanding the structure and functioning of these governments, but also about assessing their merits, demerits, and suitability in different contexts.
Monarchy: This is a form of government where power is vested in a single individual, usually a king or queen, who rules until death or abdication. Political theory examines the historical evolution of monarchies, their impact on societies, and the conditions under which they can be just and effective.
Aristocracy: In this form of government, power is held by a small, privileged ruling class, often the nobility or the wealthy. Political theory scrutinizes the dynamics of power in aristocracies, the potential for inequality, and the circumstances under which they can contribute to societal stability and progress.
Democracy: Democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through elected representatives. Political theory explores the principles of democratic governance, such as equality, freedom, and justice, and investigates how these principles are realized in practice.
Dictatorship: This is a form of government where power is concentrated in the hands of a single ruler or a small group, often maintained by force. Political theory assesses the conditions under which dictatorships emerge, their impact on human rights and freedoms, and the potential for resistance and change.
Parliamentary Government: In this system, the executive branch derives its democratic legitimacy from, and is held accountable to, the legislature. Political theory evaluates the mechanisms of checks and balances, the role of political parties, and the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight.
Federalism: This is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. Political theory examines the dynamics of power sharing, the management of diversity, and the potential for conflict resolution in federal systems.
(b) A Study of Concepts of Freedom, Equality and Justice
Answer: Freedom, together with Justice, is a ‘goal’ which required right to life, right to equality, right to property, freedom of speech and freedom from arbitrary arrest. The idea of minority rights, i.e., the rights of the religious minorities, the dalits and the backward castes, has provoked much debate in recent times.
(c) A Study of the New Rights
Answer: The “concept of right” is not static. It has developed with change in times and needs of the people. The Supreme Court of India, for instance, ruled that “the right to life” included many positive rights, such as proper nutrition, clothing and shelter. The political theorists have now explained the necessity of a whole range of new rights, such as the rights of children, rights of the aged, rights of women against domestic violence, and the right to information.
We all need privacy, including the privacy of our homes. It is a nuisance to have all these emails coming to us from strangers. Sting operations by news channels have also provoked a fierce debate. The ecologists are fighting for “the rights of the planet”, i.e., the natural environment, including forests, rivers, and wildlife.
6. What is the utility and significance of the study of Political Theory?
Or
Make out how political theory can be useful to us with reference to the following:
(a) Knowledge of our Rights and Duties
Answer: A democratic government implies popular participation in political processes such as elections. We should be conscious of our rights, especially the right to vote. This right should be exercised sensibly. Our knowledge of political theory tells us that Right to Vote is not only a Right but a Duty as well. The voters should choose the best men. If they are guided by narrow or caste or religious considerations, society has to suffer the consequences of their choice.
Different parties have different ideas as regards the Uniform Civil Code, Special Provisions with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, and the role of Multinational Corporations in country’s economy. When choices have to be made, only an intelligent citizen can decide which policy is the best for our country
(b) Political theory liberalises the outlook
Answer: By the study of political theory an individual may think more logically about concepts such as liberty, equality and justice. The subject has an academic tradition which is associated with the names of great thinkers like Socrates, Aristotle, John Stuart Mill and Mahatma Gandhi. Political theory teaches us to be tolerant of other people’s attitudes or beliefs. Liberty and equality are not just abstract principles; these concepts reflect ideals that we should try to follow.
(c) A growth in the reasoning powers of the mind
Answer: A political concept is not merely a matter of faith; it develops through much thinking and reasoning.
Different ideologies (Liberalism, Marxism and Socialism) have been subjected to careful examination. At the same time, there are such theories also as have no scientific basis. The Fascist and the Nazi rulers, for instance, attempted to create a society based on “myths”. Some of the myths popularised by them were:
- The Leader is ever Right
- International Peace is a Coward’s Dream
- Imperialism is the Eternal Law of Life
7. “Political activity involves disagreements and the reconciliation of those agreements and, therefore, politics may occur in seemingly non-political domains also.” How would you illustrate this statement?
Answer: The statement “Political activity involves disagreements and the reconciliation of those agreements and, therefore, politics may occur in seemingly non-political domains also” can be illustrated through several examples:
Family Life: Politics can occur in family life as members may have disagreements over various issues such as division of chores, decision-making, or distribution of resources. These disagreements need to be resolved through negotiation and compromise, which are essentially political processes.
Sports: Politics can also occur in sports. For instance, there can be disagreements over rules, team selection, or strategies. Resolving these disagreements requires negotiation, compromise, and sometimes, the exercise of authority – all of which are political processes.
Film Awards and Censoring of Films: The process of selecting films for awards or deciding on the content that can be shown in films can also be political. There can be disagreements over the criteria for selection, the interpretation of rules, or the appropriateness of content. Resolving these disagreements involves political processes such as negotiation, compromise, and the exercise of authority.
Elections: A democratic government implies popular participation in political processes such as elections. Voters may have disagreements over which candidates or policies are best for the community. These disagreements are resolved through the process of voting, which is a political activity.
Debates in the Legislature: Political arguments and conflicts are often resolved through debates in the legislature. Legislators may have disagreements over laws, policies, or budget allocations. These disagreements are resolved through debate, negotiation, and voting, which are political processes.
8. Rationalist approach to politics means resolving political arguments through reasoning. What role do the political parties, elections and debates in legislature play in reconciling political conflicts?
Answer: The rationalist approach to politics, which involves resolving political arguments through reasoning, is embodied in several key political processes, including the roles of political parties, elections, and debates in the legislature. These processes play a significant role in reconciling political conflicts:
Political Parties: Political parties play a crucial role in reconciling political conflicts by representing different viewpoints within a society. They formulate policies and programs that reflect the interests and values of their constituents. Through negotiation and compromise within the party and with other parties, they help to reconcile disagreements over policy issues. Different parties have different ideas as regards the Uniform Civil Code, Special Provisions with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir, and the role of Multinational Corporations in the country’s economy. When choices have to be made, only an intelligent citizen can decide which policy is the best for our country.
Elections: Elections are a key mechanism for resolving political conflicts in a democratic society. Through elections, citizens can express their preferences and choose representatives who best reflect their views. This process helps to reconcile disagreements by providing a peaceful and orderly means for competing parties and candidates to vie for political power. A democratic government implies popular participation in political processes such as elections. We should be conscious of our rights, especially the right to vote. This right should be exercised sensibly. Our knowledge of political theory tells us that the Right to Vote is not only a Right but a Duty as well. The voters should choose the best men. If they are guided by narrow or caste or religious considerations, society has to suffer the consequences of their choice.
Debates in the Legislature: Debates in the legislature provide a forum for elected representatives to discuss, argue, and negotiate over policy issues. Through reasoned debate, disagreements can be aired, different perspectives can be considered, and compromises can be reached. This process helps to reconcile political conflicts by ensuring that all views are heard and considered before decisions are made.
B. Short answer questions
9. Comment on the statement “Political Science is an analysis of the whole of Political System”.
Answer: Political Science involves the analytical study of ideas and doctrines that relate to political phenomena and political institutions. It is concerned with what major thinkers said about justice, freedom, equality, rule of law, and so on. It also examines the conditions under which various political theories were formed and how they have evolved over time. It is essentially an analysis of the entire political system, considering all its aspects and intricacies.
10. Examine the ancient Indian conception of politics.
Answer: There is an evidence of developed political thinking in ancient India in the works of Brihaspati, Shukracharya and Kautilya. They gave politics various names such as Rajadharma and Dandaniti. Kautilya called it Arthashastra. He defined it as “that branch of knowledge which deals with the acquisition and protection of artha, i.e., the territory, fort, treasury, etc.” Kautilya’s Arthashastra is a remarkable book which deals with the various aspects of statecraft, such as character of the King and his ministers, justice, taxation, war, diplomacy and relief to people in the event of natural calamities.
11. Examine the liberal and Marxian conceptions of politics.
Answer: The liberal democrats (T.H. Green, Hobhouse and others) conceived State as an ‘Instrument of Social Welfare’. Politics brings about order and coherence in society. The aim of those who practise politics is often to secure agreement over what is to be done in a given situation. According to Marxist-Leninist doctrines, “every form of government protects the privileges of the ruling class.” State is nothing more than a machine for the oppression of one Class by another.
12. Who coined the term ‘Political Culture’? What does it mean?
Answer: The French writer, Jean Bodin coined the term Political Science.
Political Science involves attitudes and beliefs of the people, their voting behaviour, group organisations, as well as the acts of the legislative, executive and judicial bodies. It is, so to say, an analysis of the whole of ‘Political System’.
13. “Politics essentially is the art of the possible.” Comment.
Answer: This suggests that politics is about navigating the complexities and constraints of governance, managing expectations, and striving to achieve what is feasible within given circumstances. It underscores the inherent limitations of any political system and the need for balance in addressing various demands and interests.
C. Multiple Choice Questions: Tick (✓) the correct answer.
14. Who defined Politics as “that branch of knowledge which deals with the acquisition and protection of artha, i.e., the territory, fort, treasury, etc.”?
Answer: (b) Kautilya
15. Who among the following thinkers constructed a theory that came to be known as Systems Analysis?
Answer: (c) David Easton
16. The Business Groups and Trade Unions fall into the category of:
Answer: (b) Interest Groups
Extra/additional questions and answers
1. What are the core functions of the government?
Answer: The core functions of the government are to make law, implement law and interpret law.
2. How is the term ‘Politics’ defined in modern usage?
Answer: Nowadays, the term ‘Politics’ refers to “the day to day public affairs and the actual problems of government”.
3. Why is ‘Political Science’ considered the most appropriate title for the study of politics and political behaviour?
Answer: The term ‘Political Science’ is considered the most appropriate title for the study of politics and political behaviour because it deals with the whole body of knowledge relating to the phenomena of the State and the distribution and dynamics of power, both at the national and international levels.
Q. What is the meaning of the term ‘polis’ from which the word ‘politics’ is derived?
Answer: The term ‘polis’, from which the word ‘politics’ is derived, is a Greek word meaning “city state”.
Q. How did Plato and Aristotle view the relationship between state and society in the ancient Greek view of politics?
Answer: In the ancient Greek view, Plato and Aristotle did not make any distinction between state and society. Their City State was viewed as “church, university, state all in one.” In this broad sense, families, educational system, religion, justice and morals, they all are brought within the range of politics.
Q. Who are some of the notable figures in ancient Indian political thinking and what are some of the terms they used for politics?
Answer: Some notable figures in ancient Indian political thinking are Brihaspati, Shukracharya and Kautilya. They used various terms for politics such as Rajadharma and Dandaniti. Kautilya referred to it as Arthashastra.
Q. What is Kautilya’s definition of Arthashastra and what aspects does it cover?
Answer: Kautilya defined Arthashastra as “that branch of knowledge which deals with the acquisition and protection of artha, i.e., the territory, fort, treasury, etc.” His Arthashastra is a remarkable book which deals with various aspects of statecraft, such as character of the King and his ministers, justice, taxation, war, diplomacy and relief to people in the event of natural calamities.
Q. Who coined the term ‘Political Science’ and how did they view the scope of the discipline?
Answer: The term ‘Political Science’ was coined by the French writer, Jean Bodin, who was a lawyer by profession. He, along with later writers like Woolsey, Dicey and Paul Janet, defined Political Science more narrowly than the Greeks. They viewed it as the ‘Science of State’, covering aspects such as law, constitution, government and questions relating to war and peace.
Q. According to Paul Janet, what does Political Science treat of?
Answer: According to Paul Janet, “Political Science is that part of social science which treats of the foundations of the State and the principles of Government.”
Q. What are the Modern Conceptions of Political Science?
Answer: Modern conceptions of political science include: (i) Liberal and Marxian Conceptions, (ii) The Behavioural Approach, (iii) Struggle for Power, and (iv) Authoritative Allocation of Values.
Q. Who are the liberal democrats associated with the concept of State as an ‘Instrument of Social Welfare’?
Answer: The liberal democrats who are associated with the concept of the State as an ‘Instrument of Social Welfare’ are T.H. Green, Hobhouse and others.
Q. Can you explain the Marxian conception of the State in political science?
Answer: According to Marxist-Leninist doctrines, every form of government protects the privileges of the ruling class. In their view, the State is nothing more than a machine for the oppression of one class by another.
Q. What does the Behavioural Approach in political science entail?
Answer: The Behavioural Approach in political science, championed by thinkers like Charles Merriam, argues that political science should become scientifically accurate. This approach focuses on the behavior of individuals and political groups, rather than the formal composition and powers of political institutions such as the Legislative Assembly, the Executive, the Judiciary, Administrators or the Civil Services.
Q. What is the ‘Struggle for Power’ in the context of political science?
Answer: In the context of political science, the ‘Struggle for Power’ refers to the universal phenomenon of individuals or groups seeking power. This involves questions of how political power is distributed in modern societies, which individuals and groups exercise power, and what are the sources of power. These sources may vary widely, including hereditary right, success at polls, or illegal seizure of authority by a military general or a charismatic leader.
Q. Can you elaborate on David Easton’s concept of ‘Authoritative Allocation of Values’?
Answer: David Easton, in his book ‘The Political System’, introduced a theory known as Systems Analysis. According to Easton, politics is concerned with the “Authoritative Allocation of Values”. By “values”, he means things desired by the people, which could be material goods, offices or other facilities. The phrase “Authoritative Allocation” signifies “the binding or authoritative decisions” which may be taken only by the legislators or the executive and judicial bodies. As not everyone can have everything they want, every political system faces the task of developing a criterion for the sharing of goods that will satisfy most members of the society. Thus, politics is about “Who Gets What, When and How?”
Q. Who are some of the political thinkers that have contributed to the field of political philosophy and what are the concepts they deliberated on?
Answer: Political philosophy is a significant domain of Political Science where renowned thinkers such as Aristotle, Machiavelli, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, Marx, and John Rawls have deliberated on concepts like freedom, justice, liberty, and rights. Their writings provide insights into a wide array of matters, detailing how the state and society ought to be organized and the way the people should behave. These philosophies form a core part of the study of political science.
Q. Can you detail the involvement of the modern Indian thinkers M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan, and Dr. Ambedkar, and the contribution of Amartya Sen in the field of political philosophy?
Answer: Modern Indian thinkers, including M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan, and Dr. Ambedkar, were inspired by both ancient ideals and Western notions of liberalism, humanism, and Marxism. Their thoughts have significantly shaped the field of political philosophy. Amartya Sen, another notable contributor, has engaged in scholarly debates about equality and justice, thereby providing valuable insights into these areas of political philosophy.
Q. What does the study of the organization of the government in political science involve?
Answer: The study of the organization of the government in political science primarily involves understanding the major institutions of the State, such as the legislature, the executive, the judiciary, and local government. The focus is on the forms of government, organs of government, and the distribution of powers among them. Both traditional writers, who concentrated on institutions, and modern political scientists who shifted the emphasis to processes, contribute to this important field of study.
Q. Why is the study of bureaucracy and its behavior considered an essential part of political science?
Answer: The study of bureaucracy and its behavior is critical in political science because Chief Executives, whether they are Kings, Prime Ministers, or Presidents, require permanent administrative agencies for the performance of their official duties. These agencies are manned by public officials, so studying the Executive involves understanding the bureaucracy, including the appointment, promotion, and removal of officials and their subordinate staff. The powers they exercise and their functioning methods are also vital issues examined by political scientists.
Q. What questions are usually confronted by students of political science concerning the judicial system and legal processes?
Answer: Students of political science usually confront questions regarding how laws are interpreted and enforced, whether the courts should be empowered to determine whether a law aligns with the terms of the Constitution, and how conflicts between the legislative, executive, and judicial bodies are resolved. These inquiries are fundamental to the understanding of the judicial system and legal processes within political science.
Q. How do representation, election, and voting behavior relate to political science?
Answer: Representation, election, and voting behavior constitute an important sub-discipline of political science. Elections are the means by which people choose their representatives and lend legitimacy to the government. The fairness of elections and people’s confidence in the political system are directly related, making these areas a crucial part of political science studies.
Q. Can you discuss the role of political parties and pressure groups within a political system?
Answer: In a liberal democracy, more than one party competes for political power, while under a dictatorship, there’s usually a single mass party led by one individual. Many important political questions relate to the party system, including the relative strength of parties, their functions, and behaviors. Along with parties, pressure groups, also known as Interest Groups, play a vital role in the passage of various bills by adopting specific tactics to influence legislators and public officials.
Q. What does the term “political culture” mean and why is it significant for the comparative study of political systems?
Answer: The term “political culture,” coined by G. Almond, refers to the attitudes and political beliefs of the people in a given society. Analysis of political culture is highly beneficial for the comparative study of political systems, as it helps determine the causes of violent political changes and to what extent political changes correspond with social and economic changes.
Q. Can you elaborate on the concerns of world politics and international organizations in the field of political science?
Answer: World politics is a significant concern of political scientists. Issues such as the reform of the UN Security Council, peace and cooperation in South Asia, the shape of the European Union, arms control, environmental protection, and new threats to world security arising from Global Terrorism are often studied. International organizations like the World Trade Organisation (WTO), IMF, and the World Bank safeguard the interests of developed nations. Thus, the developing nations often press for an “international economic system which is just and fair.” This forms a substantial part of political science studies.
Q. What are some of the new rights that political theorists have deemed necessary?
Answer: Political theorists have explained the necessity of a whole range of new rights, such as the rights of children, rights of the aged, rights of women against domestic violence, the right to information, and the rights of the planet, i.e. the natural environment including forests, rivers and wildlife.
Q. How does the study of political theory prove relevant in solving our problems in life?
Answer: The study of political theory is relevant to solving our problems in life because it has close relations with a number of academic disciplines such as history, ethics, sociology, economics and other areas of study. These subjects furnish theories and data which political theorists use to construct political theory. All these disciplines contribute to life in numerous ways, providing tools and knowledge that help individuals understand and navigate complex social issues.
Q. What is the implication of a democratic government in terms of popular participation?
Answer: A democratic government implies popular participation in political processes such as elections. We should be conscious of our rights, especially the right to vote. This right should be sensibly exercised. Our knowledge of political theory tells us that the Right to Vote is not only a Right but a Duty as well. The voters should choose the best men. If they are guided by narrow or caste or religious considerations, society has to suffer the consequences of their choice.
Q. What role does the study of political theory play in liberalising the outlook of an individual?
Answer: By the study of political theory, an individual may think more logically about concepts such as liberty, equality, and justice. Political theory is associated with the names of great thinkers like Socrates, Aristotle, John Stuart Mill, and Mahatma Gandhi. It teaches us to be tolerant of other people’s attitudes or beliefs. Liberty and equality are not just abstract principles; these concepts reflect ideals that we should try to follow.
Q. What does Professor Crick mean when he says, “Politics is essentially the art of the possible”?
Answer: According to Professor Crick, “Politics is essentially the art of the possible” means that we should not expect too much from government. Limitations on any government are there for all of us to see. A political system has to function under different kinds of compulsions and constraints. The Government of India, for example, is functioning in an environment where “most people, sadly, are more eager to receive than to give.” It would be well to remember that politics can never provide a remedy to all of the ills. If there are too many demands, tension arises, which, if not controlled, will destroy the system.
Q. What is the role of reasoning in political concept development?
Answer: Reasoning plays a significant role in the development of political concepts. It’s not merely a matter of faith, but it develops through much thinking and reasoning. Different ideologies like Liberalism, Marxism, and Socialism have been subjected to careful examination. This process of reasoning allows students to generate logical arguments for debates and critical discussions.
Q. Which myths were popularized by the Fascist and Nazi rulers?
Answer:
- The Leader is ever Right
- International Peace is a Coward’s Dream
- Imperialism is the Eternal Law of Life
These were the myths that were popularized by the Fascist and Nazi rulers, who attempted to create a society based on such unscientific foundations.
Q. Name some of the much-debated subjects in political theory nowadays.
Answer: Some of the much-debated subjects in political theory today are:
- Can we have a Global Citizenship?
- Is there a Universally Accepted Model of Development?
- Is Reservation an Anti-poverty Measure?
- Should there be No Caste-Based Reservations?
- Is Secularism Suitable for India?
These are subjects that ignite a spirit of reasoning and are often topics of student debates and discussions.
Q. How does politics occur in seemingly non-political domains like family life and sports?
Answer: Politics, defined as “disagreements and the reconciliation or settlement of those disagreements,” can occur even in seemingly non-political domains such as family life and sports. In families, politics can arise due to gender-biases, where girls might be treated as unequal to boys in aspects like education and healthcare. In sports, conflicts arise over control and power dynamics, as seen in the BCCI where differences among members led to serious disagreements, despite their common aim of enhancing India’s excellence in cricket.
Q. How did the struggle for the emancipation of women transform from a private activity to a state activity?
Answer: The struggle for the emancipation of women began as a private, seemingly non-political activity but became a state activity as well. This change happened because of the genuine conflict and the need to resolve that conflict. In many societies, women were thought to be meant only for housekeeping jobs, thus perpetuating their inferior position. In response to this, public-spirited leaders worked to reform social order. Consequently, governments began to use their stronger position to resolve this conflict. They passed laws to prohibit discrimination on grounds of race, religion, or sex, thus transforming the struggle for women’s rights into a state activity.
Q. Describe how politics is involved in the sports domain, specifically referring to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Answer: The domain of sports, particularly bodies like the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), are not immune to politics. The BCCI is a powerful body and differences between its members led to serious disagreement, even though they all had a common goal – India’s excellence in cricket. Despite this, there were several groupings within them, each pressing for absolute authority. This internal politics and conflict led to the intervention of the state, with the Supreme Court constituting a committee headed by Justice Lodha to identify areas of disagreement and recommend measures for the smooth functioning of the BCCI.
Q. Explain how the process of film awards selection and film censoring reflects political involvement.
Answer: The film industry often sees politics in action, particularly in the process of selecting award-winning directors, actors, actresses, and music composers. There’s a general distaste for the intrigues and tricks of those who control the film industry, implying that politics plays a role in the selection process. Furthermore, the act of censoring films is also a political issue. Freedom of expression is one of the basic freedoms of society. However, the process of determining what is ‘obscene’ or ‘opposed to sentiments of people in large numbers’ can be subjective and potentially influenced by politics. The Courts are often left with the responsibility to lay down grounds for censorship, which further underlines the intertwining of politics and seemingly non-political domains like the film industry.
Q. What is a Rationalist approach to politics?
Answer: A Rationalist approach to politics means “resolving political arguments and political conflicts through reasoning”, as opposed to non-rational acts or impulses.
Q. How can political parties contribute to resolving political conflicts through reasoning?
Answer: In a democratic system, more than one political party competes for political power. These parties mould public opinion, stimulate interest in public affairs, and issue political literature regarding important problems facing the country. They provide different solutions for different problems, offering citizens the opportunity to reach a conclusion after proper reasoning or thinking about all the facts.
Q. What role does an election play in resolving political conflicts through reasoning?
Answer: An election decides which of the competing parties or individuals will have an opportunity to form government and translate their programme into public policy. Elections present various issues, allowing voters to use their judgment and reasoning to select leaders who will best address these issues. For instance, in the 1977 General Election in India, the voters used their power to reject perceived anti-democratic rule.
Q. Describe the importance of debates in the legislature for resolving political conflicts through reasoning.
Answer: Debates in Parliament or in any of the Legislatures provide an avenue for parties and individuals to express their views on a variety of issues, especially the bills that are being discussed. It provides an opportunity for Opposition to try to defeat an unwelcome legislation. A good example is the passage of India’s biggest Tax Reform, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which required reasoned discussion in both Houses of Parliament and ratification by the Legislatures of not less than one-half of the States.
40. How do interest groups influence the process of law-making in resolving political conflicts?
Answer: Interest groups such as Business Groups, Trade Unions, Peasants Organisations and Identity-based Groups influence the process of law-making. Their representatives meet Members of Parliament and hold rallies in support of their demands. They also turn to Courts for a sympathetic interpretation of laws relating to taxation, wage policy and service conditions of the workers. These groups form an essential part of a political system and are in tune with the democratic ethos of a nation.
41. What is the role of the Courts in resolving political conflicts through reasoning?
Answer: The major task of the Judiciary is to settle disputes between citizens and also the disputes that arise between the State and the Citizen. In countries like India and the United States, the Supreme Court possesses power to declare certain administrative actions or legislative enactments (laws) unconstitutional. The disputes between the Centre and States or between States themselves have to be settled by the Supreme Court. Therefore, Courts provide a framework within which political conflict may be reconciled and decisions reached through reasoning or well-thought-out arguments.
Extra/additional MCQs
1. What is the primary function of the government?
A. Economic regulation B. Make law C. Education D. Healthcare
Answer: B. Make law
2. The term ‘Politics’ in modern usage refers to:
A. Law and order B. Public affairs C. Economic policies D. Religious activities
Answer: B. Public affairs
3. ‘Political Science’ is primarily concerned with the study of:
A. Religious affairs B. Social norms C. State phenomena D. Human behavior
Answer: C. State phenomena
4. The word ‘politics’ is derived from the Greek word:
A. Politeia B. Polis C. Polites D. Politika
Answer: B. Polis
5. The City State of Plato and Aristotle was considered as:
A. Government, army, state all in one B. Church, university, state all in one C. Family, society, state all in one D. Market, industry, state all in one
Answer: B. Church, university, state all in one
Q. Which ancient Indian scholar referred to politics as ‘Arthashastra’?
A. Brihaspati B. Shukracharya C. Kautilya D. Vyas
Answer: C. Kautilya
Q. Kautilya’s Arthashastra deals with the acquisition and protection of:
A. Knowledge B. Power C. Artha D. Dharma
Answer: C. Artha
Q. Who coined the term ‘Political Science’?
A. Woolsey B. Dicey C. Paul Janet D. Jean Bodin
Answer: D. Jean Bodin
Q. The scope of Political Science, as defined by the French writer Jean Bodin, includes all the following EXCEPT:
A. Law B. Constitution C. Religion D. Government
Answer: C. Religion
Q. According to Paul Janet, Political Science is a part of which broader discipline?
A. Economics B. Social science C. History D. Anthropology
Answer: B. Social science
Q. Who is referred to as the intellectual Godfather of Behaviouralism?
A. Max Weber B. Bertrand Russell C. David Easton D. Charles Merriam
Answer: D. Charles Merriam
Q. According to Marxist-Leninist doctrines, what does every form of government protect?
A. Social Welfare B. Values C. Privileges of the ruling class D. Interests of the proletariat
Answer: C. Privileges of the ruling class
Q. Who among the following is not associated with the concept of the State as an ‘Instrument of Social Welfare’?
A. T.H. Green B. Hobhouse C. Karl Marx D. David Easton
Answer: C. Karl Marx
Q. What does David Easton refer to with the term “values”?
A. Legal Rights B. Things desired by people C. Political Power D. Forms of Government
Answer: B. Things desired by people
Q. In the context of politics, what does the phrase “Authoritative Allocation” signify?
A. Individual freedom B. Binding or authoritative decisions C. Democratization D. Centralization of Power
Answer: B. Binding or authoritative decisions
Q. According to the Behavioural Approach, what should political science become?
A. Socially Relevant B. Scientifically Accurate C. Idealistic D. Normative
Answer: B. Scientifically Accurate
Q. What does politics concern itself with, according to David Easton?
A. Scientific Accuracy B. Protection of Privileges C. Authoritative Allocation of Values D. Behaviouralism
Answer: C. Authoritative Allocation of Values
Q. According to the Marxian conception, what is the state essentially?
A. A machine for social welfare B. A machine for the oppression of one Class by another C. An instrument of social order D. An authority for value allocation
Answer: B. A machine for the oppression of one Class by another
Q. According to Max Weber and Bertrand Russell, what is a universal phenomenon?
A. Behaviouralism B. Love for Power C. Social Welfare D. Class Struggle
Answer: B. Love for Power
Q. What does ‘politics’ mean according to David Easton’s theory of ‘Authoritative Allocation of Values’?
A. Power Distribution B. Social Welfare C. Who Gets What, When and How D. Class Struggle
Answer: C. Who Gets What, When and How
Q. Who among the following philosophers discussed concepts like freedom, justice, liberty, and rights?
A. Aristotle B. Socrates C. Immanuel Kant D. Friedrich Nietzsche
Answer: A. Aristotle
Q. Which of the following thinkers was significantly inspired by ancient ideals and Western notions of liberalism, humanism, and Marxism?
A. John Locke B. Dr. Ambedkar C. Plato D. Thomas Hobbes
Answer: B. Dr. Ambedkar
Q. What is a central component when studying the Executive in the field of political science?
A. Geography B. Bureaucracy C. Education system D. Healthcare system
Answer: B. Bureaucracy
Q. Who coined the term “political culture”?
A. M.N. Roy B. G. Almond C. Aristotle D. John Rawls
Answer: B. G. Almond
Q. In a liberal democracy, how many parties usually compete for political power?
A. One B. Two C. More than one D. None
Answer: C. More than one
Q. Under what form of government is there usually a single mass party led by one individual?
A. Democracy B. Oligarchy C. Dictatorship D. Monarchy
Answer: C. Dictatorship
Q. Which organization is mentioned as safeguarding the interests of developed nations?
A. United Nations B. European Union C. World Trade Organisation D. Amnesty International
Answer: C. World Trade Organisation
Q. Which thinker made a significant contribution to the scholarly debates about equality and justice?
A. Machiavelli B. Amartya Sen C. Marx D. Rousseau
Answer: B. Amartya Sen
Q. What does the study of ‘representation, election, and voting behavior’ constitute in political science?
A. An important sub-discipline B. A minor sub-discipline C. An unrelated study D. A rarely studied aspect
Answer: A. An important sub-discipline
Q. What is a major concern for political scientists in the field of world politics?
A. Lunar Exploration B. Cultural Exchange C. Reform of the UN Security Council D. Development of Artificial Intelligence
Answer: C. Reform of the UN Security Council
Q. From which language is the term ‘theory’ derived?
A. Latin B. Sanskrit C. Greek D. French
Answer: C. Greek
Q. What significant theory did Karl Marx present?
A. Theory of Relativity B. Class War C. Theory of Evolution D. Quantum Theory
Answer: B. Class War
Q. Who depicted Swaraj as the only guarantee for freedom?
A. Bhimrao Ambedkar B. Mahatma Gandhi C. Amartya Sen D. Karl Marx
Answer: B. Mahatma Gandhi
Q. Which political figure is known to mobilize the dalits and the backward castes?
A. Mahatma Gandhi B. Bhimrao Ambedkar C. Karl Marx D. Machiavelli
Answer: B. Bhimrao Ambedkar
Q. According to political theory, what must every good state be?
A. Democratic State B. Social State C. Constitutional State D. Republic State
Answer: C. Constitutional State
Q. Which of the following is NOT a form of government discussed in political theory?
A. Monarchy B. Democracy C. Feudalism D. Federalism
Answer: C. Feudalism
Q. What does the rule of law signify?
A. Rule by law B. No one is above the law C. Rule by the people D. Law is arbitrary
Answer: B. No one is above the law
Q. Which of the following is not a condition of freedom, equality, and justice?
A. Right to life B. Right to property C. Right to vote D. Freedom of speech
Answer: C. Right to vote
Q. Who shifted his interest from pure theory to practical problems like famine, poverty, and unemployment?
A. Karl Marx B. Amartya Sen C. Bhimrao Ambedkar D. Machiavelli
Answer: B. Amartya Sen
Q. Which of the following is a ‘New Right’ according to the Supreme Court of India?
A. Right to property B. Right to education C. Proper nutrition D. Freedom of speech
Answer: C. Proper nutrition
Q. Which rights are being fought for by ecologists?
A. Privacy rights B. Rights of the aged C. Rights of the planet D. Right to information
Answer: C. Rights of the planet
Q. Political theory is closely related to which academic disciplines?
A. History and Mathematics B. History, Ethics, Sociology, Economics C. Astronomy and History D. Economics and Physics
Answer: B. History, Ethics, Sociology, Economics
Q. What is implied by a democratic government?
A. Autocratic rule B. Totalitarian regime C. Popular participation D. Military control
Answer: C. Popular participation
Q. Which right is described as both a right and a duty in a democracy?
A. Right to privacy B. Right to information C. Right to equality D. Right to vote
Answer: D. Right to vote
Q. Which concept is noted to liberalise the outlook of an individual through the study of political theory?
A. Power B. Liberty C. Religion D. Wealth
Answer: B. Liberty
Q. Who are some of the thinkers associated with the academic tradition of political theory?
A. Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels B. Adam Smith, David Ricardo C. Socrates, Aristotle, John Stuart Mill, Mahatma Gandhi D. Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein
Answer: C. Socrates, Aristotle, John Stuart Mill, Mahatma Gandhi
Q. What is the characterisation of politics by Professor Crick?
A. Art of the impossible B. Art of the possible C. Science of logic D. Game of thrones
Answer: B. Art of the possible
Q. Who is expected to make the best policy decisions for the country?
A. Political leaders B. Military commanders C. Judges D. Intelligent citizens
Answer: D. Intelligent citizens
Q. What can destroy a political system if not controlled?
A. Absence of laws B. Corruption C. Tension D. Inequality
Answer: C. Tension
Q. What is one limitation of the government?
A. Lack of funding B. High expectations C. Military pressure D. Lack of resources
Answer: B. High expectations
Q. Which ideologies have been subjected to careful examination through reasoning?
A. Liberalism B. Fascism C. Marxism D. Socialism
Answer: A. Liberalism, C. Marxism, D. Socialism
Q. What is one of the myths popularized by Fascist and Nazi rulers about peace?
A. International Peace is a Coward’s Dream B. Peace is a Noble Pursuit C. Peace is the Only Way D. Peace Promotes Prosperity
Answer: A. International Peace is a Coward’s Dream
Q. What is a debated subject concerning the model of development in political theory?
A. Is there a Universally Accepted Model of Development? B. Is Development Only Economic Growth? C. Should Development Focus on Urban Areas? D. Is Sustainable Development a Myth?
Answer: A. Is there a Universally Accepted Model of Development?
Q. What subject concerning reservations is a topic of debate in political theory?
A. Should there be Income-Based Reservations? B. Should there be No Caste-Based Reservations? C. Should Reservation be Done Away With? D. Should there be Gender-Based Reservations?
Answer: B. Should there be No Caste-Based Reservations?
Q. What was the basic premise of the conflict in families that led to political intervention?
A. Economic Disparity B. Generational Gap C. Gender-Bias D. Property Disputes
Answer: C. Gender-Bias
Q. Which organization in the sports domain was referenced for its internal politics?
A. FIFA B. NBA C. BCCI D. IOC
Answer: C. BCCI
Q. Who headed the committee constituted by the Supreme Court to identify areas of disagreement in the BCCI?
A. Justice Nariman B. Justice Bobde C. Justice Lodha D. Justice Mishra
Answer: C. Justice Lodha
Q. What is one of the key freedoms involved in the politics of film censoring?
A. Freedom of Speech B. Freedom of Expression C. Freedom of Movement D. Freedom of Religion
Answer: B. Freedom of Expression
Q. Which domain sees politics in the selection of award winners?
A. Sports B. Film Industry C. Literature D. Music
Answer: B. Film Industry
Q. According to the Fascist and Nazi rulers’ myths, what is the eternal law of life?
A. Democracy B. Equality C. Imperialism D. Freedom
Answer: C. Imperialism
Q. What is the primary approach of Rationalism to politics?
A. Ignoring arguments B. Non-rational acts C. Resolving conflicts through reasoning D. Traditional beliefs
Answer: C. Resolving conflicts through reasoning
Q. Who were the Fascist dictators in Italy and Germany?
A. Hitler and Churchill B. Mussolini and Hitler C. Stalin and Mussolini D. Churchill and Stalin
Answer: B. Mussolini and Hitler
Q. In the democratic system, how many political parties typically compete for political power?
A. One B. Two C. Three D. More than one
Answer: D. More than one
Q. What was the primary issue over which the 1977 General Election in India was fought?
A. Poverty B. Illiteracy C. Democracy versus authoritarian rule D. Unemployment
Answer: C. Democracy versus authoritarian rule
Q. Who assumed power as the Prime Minister of India after the 1977 General Election?
A. Indira Gandhi B. Morarji Desai C. Rajiv Gandhi D. Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Answer: B. Morarji Desai
Q. What was India’s biggest Tax Reform since Independence?
A. Value Added Tax B. Direct Tax C. Corporate Tax D. Goods and Services Tax
Answer: D. Goods and Services Tax
Q. Who is required to ratify a Constitution Amendment Bill in India?
A. Prime Minister B. President C. Legislatures of not less than one-half of the States D. Citizens through a referendum
Answer: C. Legislatures of not less than one-half of the States
71. Who can declare certain administrative actions or legislative enactments unconstitutional in India and the United States?
A. President B. Prime Minister C. Parliament D. Supreme Court
Answer: D. Supreme Court
72. Who settles disputes between the Centre and States or between States themselves in India and the United States?
A. President B. Prime Minister C. Parliament D. Supreme Court
Answer: D. Supreme Court
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