lecture one Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the Capability Approach to social science?
It emphasizes enhancing individuals’ capabilities to pursue goals they value by providing access to goods and services, aiming for a just society where people can reach their full potential.
Why is the design of political institutions important?
It affects power distribution, decision-making, and resource allocation. Good design promotes governance, accountability, democracy, and prevents corruption.
How can democracy help reduce corruption?
Through mechanisms like free elections, independent judiciary, free press, and separation of powers, democracy promotes transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
How is corruption linked to political legitimacy?
Corruption erodes trust in institutions, undermines fairness and rule of law, and can lead to a legitimacy crisis where citizens lose confidence in government.
What factors explain differences in social trust across countries?
Historical (stable governance), cultural (community values), economic (equality), institutional (rule of law), and media freedom.
Should comparative politics experts advise politicians?
Yes, they provide global perspectives, evidence-based analysis, and help design informed and effective public policies.
Should comparative politics experts engage in public debates?
Yes, to inform public discourse, debunk misinformation, promote critical thinking, and advocate for democratic values.
Is democracy necessary for societal well-being?
Democracy offers benefits like participation and rights protection but isn’t the only path—its effectiveness depends on context (e.g., culture, history).
How can knowledge in comparative politics ‘save lives’?
By preventing conflict, improving crisis response, informing healthcare policies, promoting rights, and enhancing international cooperation.
What are key principles for designing democratic institutions?
Separation of powers, rule of law, accountability, protection of rights, decentralization, inclusivity, transparency, and adaptability.
What is comparative politics?
A subfield of political science comparing systems, institutions, behaviors, and outcomes across countries to identify patterns and improve understanding.
What do we compare in comparative politics?
Institutions, systems (democracy vs. authoritarianism), behavior, policy, culture, ideologies, and processes like democratization.
How do we compare in comparative politics?
Using methods like case studies, statistical analysis, qualitative research, historical comparisons, and cross-national studies.
Why do we compare in comparative politics?
To identify patterns, explain variations, test theories, inform policy, promote governance, and foster global understanding.
What is Sartori’s ‘traveling problem’?
The difficulty of applying Western political concepts to non-Western contexts; emphasizes need for precise, adaptable, and logically sound terms.
