Political Theory An Introduction -NCERT SOLUTIONS

Ch 1 : Political Theory An Introduction -NCERT SOLUTION

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Q1. Which of the following statements are true/false about political theory?

a. It discusses ideas that form the basis of political institutions.

b. It explains the relationship between different religions.

c. It explains the meaning of concepts like equality and freedom.

d. It predicts the performance of political parties

Answers-

a. True

b. False

c. True

d. False

Q2. Politics is more than what politicians do. Do you agree with this statement? Give examples.

Answer:

 Beyond Politicians:

• Politics is more than what politicians do.
• Politicians are part of the government and involved in politics, but politics is not limited to their activities.

• Definition by David Easton:
• Politics is the study of authoritative allocation of values.
• It is influenced by the distribution and use of power.

Key Concerns of Politics

• Main Elements:
• Power
• Influence
• Leadership
• Conflicts
• Cooperation

Politics in Society

• Decision-Making and Negotiations:
• Politics involves various negotiations in society.
• Through these, collective decisions are made.
• Government and People's Aspirations:
• Politics includes the actions of government.
• It relates to the aspirations of the people.
• People’s Struggles:
• Politics also includes people’s struggles and their influence on decision-making.

People’s Participation in Politics

• Everyday Political Activity:
• People engage in politics when they:
• Negotiate with each other
• Participate in collective activities for social development
• Resolve common problems
• Examples:
• Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs): Formed to solve local issues and raise them at higher levels.
• Student Unions: Formed in colleges/universities to debate and resolve student issues.

Conclusion

• Politics exists in any sphere of life related to:
• Power
• Collective decision-making
• Solving common problems

Q3. Vigilant citizens are a must for the successful working of a democracy. Comment.

Answer 3:

1. Encountering Corruption

• People come across corrupt actions of their representatives and democratic governments.
• This happens as they stay active in politics.

2. Forming Public Opinion

• They form public opinion by:
• Creating associations
• Organising public meetings
• Purpose:
• To act against political malpractices such as:
• Defection
• False commitments
• Favoring personal or family interests

3. Keeping a Check on Government

• People monitor wrong policies and corruption.
• These actions are necessary as they may endanger public life and security.

4. Organising Campaigns and Demonstrations

• People can:
• Organise campaigns to represent group interests
• Hold demonstrations to:
• Persuade governments
• Change laws, if necessary

5. Aspiring for a Better Society

• They debate the actions of their representatives.
• Aim is to create a better society.

Q4. In what ways is the study of political theory useful for us? Identify four ways in which the political theory can be useful to us.

Answer 4:

Meaning of Theory

• A theory helps to:
• Organise knowledge
• Guide research
• Interpret findings

Political Theory as a Science

(According to David Easton)

1. Provides an analytical scheme to make research meaningful and explain the relations between political variables.
2. Comparative studies of different researches:
• Help verify conclusions
• Identify areas needing more empirical work
3. Use of consistent concepts makes research more reliable.

Political Theory as a Social and Natural Entity

(According to Wright and Mills)

1. Acts as an ideology:
• Justifies practices
• Makes criticisms
• Determines policies
2. Sets goals and guidelines for aspirations and policies at various levels of ideals.
3. Explains:
• Formation of society
• Conflicts in society
• Solutions to those specific conflicts

Q5. Do you think that a good/convincing argument can compel others to listen to you?

Answer 5:

Power of a Good Argument

1. Argument Gains Attention

• Yes, a good argument can compel others to listen to you.

2. Role of Rational Thinking

• Rational individuals take interest in:
• Debates
• Conversations
• Interactions
• Aim is to reach better conclusions.

3. Impact of Logic

• People are impressed by logic and rational points.
• These points help them get convinced and agree.

4. Purpose of Debate

• In positive debates, people:
• Participate actively
• Clear their doubts
• Get convinced

Q6. Do you think studying political theory is studying mathematics. Give reasons for your answer.

Answer 6:

1. Nature of Mathematics

• Studying political theory is not like studying mathematics.
• In mathematics:
• There are specific definitions (e.g., triangles, squares).
• Definitions apply precisely as per given terms.

2. Nature of Political Theory

• Political theory deals with:
• Needs and aspirations of people and states
• Different opinions on various issues
• Aim is to develop harmonious relations by addressing diverse view