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PSIR - Paper I - Part A > Political Theory - Meaning & Approaches - CF > Flashcards

Political Theory - Meaning & Approaches - CF Flashcards

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1
Q

What is the normative approach in Political Science?

A

The normative approach in Political Science focuses on evaluating political systems and behaviors based on ethical standards and values, emphasizing what ought to be rather than what is.

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2
Q

What does the ‘Credo of Relevance’ in post-behavioralism advocate?

A

The ‘Credo of Relevance’ in post-behavioralism advocates the importance of action science, emphasizing that political theory should address real-world issues and contribute to social change.

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3
Q

What is Eurocentrism in post-colonial political theory?

A

Eurocentrism in post-colonial political theory refers to the perspective that centers European culture and history as the primary lens through which to understand global politics, often critiqued for marginalizing non-European viewpoints.

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4
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What is the significance of the behavioral approach in political theory?

A

The behavioral approach in political theory emphasizes empirical research and the scientific study of political behavior, focusing on observable actions rather than abstract theories, which led to its decline as it faced criticism for neglecting normative questions.

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5
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What is the Systems Approach in political theory?

A

The Systems Approach in political theory analyzes political phenomena as part of a larger system, focusing on the interactions and relationships between various components within the political environment.

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6
Q

What is the significance of the normative approach to political theory?

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The normative approach is significant to political theory as it provides a framework for evaluating political actions and institutions based on ethical principles, guiding the pursuit of justice and fairness in society.

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7
Q

What is the evolution of western political thought?

A

The evolution of western political thought traces the development of political ideas from ancient Greece through the medieval period, the Enlightenment, and into contemporary political theory, reflecting changes in societal values and governance.

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8
Q

What is the Resurgence of political theory?

A

The Resurgence of political theory refers to the renewed interest in theoretical frameworks and philosophical discussions in political science, emphasizing the importance of normative questions and ethical considerations in politics.

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9
Q

What is the Decline of Political Theory?

A

The Decline of Political Theory refers to the perceived reduction in the importance of theoretical discussions in political science, often attributed to the rise of empirical research and behavioralism that prioritize data over normative analysis.

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10
Q

What is Postmodernism in political theory?

A

Postmodernism in political theory challenges the grand narratives and ideologies of modernism, emphasizing relativism, fragmentation, and the subjective nature of political truths and identities.

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11
Q

What is the Post-Behavioral Approach?

A

The Post-Behavioral Approach in political theory seeks to integrate empirical research with normative concerns, advocating for a more holistic understanding of political phenomena that includes values and ethical considerations.

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12
Q

What is David Easton’s model of systems analysis?

A

David Easton’s model of systems analysis conceptualizes political systems as inputs, outputs, and feedback loops, emphasizing the dynamic interactions between the political environment and societal demands.

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13
Q

What does John Plamanatz mean by political theory being an arduous calling?

A

John Plamanatz’s statement suggests that political theory is a challenging pursuit that requires deep engagement with complex political issues, rather than a mere escape from reality.

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14
Q

What is the difference between normative and empirical theories of politics?

A

The difference between normative and empirical theories of politics lies in their focus; normative theories address what ought to be in political life based on ethical standards, while empirical theories focus on what is, based on observable data and facts.

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15
Q

What is the significance of the behavioral revolution in politics?

A

The significance of the behavioral revolution in politics lies in its emphasis on scientific methods and empirical research, which transformed the study of political behavior and contributed to a more systematic understanding of political dynamics.

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16
Q

What are the ethical, moral, and philosophical foundations in political theory?

A

The ethical, moral, and philosophical foundations in political theory guide political decisions and analyze the justifications for governance forms, such as democracy.

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17
Q

How does Hannah Arendt define political theory?

A

Hannah Arendt views political theory as the exploration of human affairs in the public realm, emphasizing the importance of human interactions and activities in the public sphere.

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18
Q

What is Robert A. Dahl’s perspective on political theory?

A

Robert A. Dahl describes political theory as the study of how a society makes collective decisions and choices.

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19
Q

How does Michael Oakeshott define political theory?

A

Michael Oakeshott sees political theory as the reflective understanding of the institutions of society.

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20
Q

What is John Rawls’ definition of political theory?

A

John Rawls defines political theory as the theory of justice, highlighting its role in exploring concepts of justice and fairness in societies.

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21
Q

What is the difference between Political Theory and Political Science?

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Political Theory seeks to understand and analyze political concepts, principles, and ideologies, while Political Science focuses on the systematic and empirical study of political systems, behavior, and institutions.

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22
Q

What is the focus of Political Philosophy?

A

Political Philosophy involves normative inquiry into the ethical and moral foundations of politics, exploring fundamental values and principles guiding political decisions.

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23
Q

What is Ancient Political Theory?

A

Ancient Political Theory begins with classical Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, where Plato’s ‘Republic’ discusses justice and the ideal state, advocating for philosopher-kings, and Aristotle’s ‘Politics’ analyzes different forms of government and promotes the concept of a polity as the ideal form of governance.

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24
Q

What is the significance of Medieval Political Theory?

A

Medieval Political Theory was heavily influenced by Christianity, with thinkers like St. Augustine and Thomas Aquinas integrating religious principles with political governance, and Aquinas contributing to the development of natural law theory, arguing that political authority comes from divine and natural order.

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25
How did the Renaissance and Reformation influence political thought?
The Renaissance and Reformation rekindled interest in classical texts and challenged the authority of the Church, with Machiavelli's 'The Prince' offering a secular approach to politics and the Reformation leading to new ideas about sovereignty and individual conscience.
26
What contributions did Enlightenment thinkers make to political theory?
Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Montesquieu significantly contributed to modern political theories of democracy, social contract, and the separation of powers, with Locke's theories influencing the American and French revolutions.
27
What were the key political theories of the 19th Century?
The 19th Century saw the rise of new political theories due to the industrial revolution and capitalism, with Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels critiquing capitalism and proposing communism, while John Stuart Mill advanced liberal democracy and individual freedom, emphasizing utilitarianism.
28
What critical theories emerged in the 20th Century regarding totalitarianism and democracy?
The 20th Century witnessed the rise of totalitarian regimes, leading to critical theories about authoritarianism and democracy, with Hannah Arendt exploring the origins of totalitarianism and John Rawls' 'A Theory of Justice' reinvigorating liberal political theory by introducing principles of justice as fairness.
29
What is realism in international relations?
Realism is a theory that focuses on power dynamics and state interests, particularly during the Cold War period.
30
What is contemporary political theory?
Contemporary political theory evolves to address issues like globalization, environmental politics, feminism, and post-colonialism, focusing on global justice and individual rights beyond national borders.
31
What are traditional approaches to political theory?
Traditional approaches emphasize formal institutions, the state, and governance, focusing on philosophical reasoning and historical analysis.
32
What are contemporary approaches to political theory?
Contemporary approaches have a broader focus including gender, race, environment, and global relations, utilizing both normative and empirical research.
33
Who are key theorists in contemporary political theory?
Key theorists include John Rawls, Michel Foucault, Jurgen Habermas, Chantal Mouffe, and Nancy Fraser.
34
What is the empirical approach in political theory?
The empirical approach focuses on observable, verifiable facts to describe 'what is,' relying on sense-experience and empirical validation.
35
What is the normative approach in political theory?
The normative approach concerns itself with 'what ought to be,' prescribing values based on moral principles or ideals.
36
What are some critiques of traditional political theory?
Traditional political theory is often criticized for being too abstract and not sufficiently addressing diversity and inequality.
37
What are some examples of contemporary political theories?
Examples include deliberative democracy, multiculturalism, feminism in political theory, environmental political theory, and post-structuralism.
38
What is the Philosophical Approach in Political Theory?
The Philosophical Approach delves into the underlying philosophical foundations of political thought, exploring fundamental questions about the nature of politics, justice, rights, authority, and the role of the state, while providing insights into the ethical and moral dimensions of political issues.
39
What is Ethical Examination in the context of Political Theory?
Ethical Examination assesses political ideas for their moral implications and justifiability, focusing on the ethical dimensions of political concepts and practices.
40
What does Normative Analysis investigate in Political Theory?
Normative Analysis investigates how societies ought to be structured and the guiding principles for political conduct, aiming to establish standards for evaluating political systems and behaviors.
41
How does the Philosophical Approach contribute to understanding political concepts?
The Philosophical Approach enriches our understanding of political concepts by delving into their ethical foundations and exploring normative principles that guide political decision-making and governance.
42
What is the significance of the 'original position' in John Rawls's theory?
The 'original position' is a conceptual device used by John Rawls to ensure that principles of justice are chosen without personal bias, as individuals select these principles without knowing their place in society, promoting fairness in decision-making.
43
What is the historical approach in political theory?
The historical approach in political theory involves examining the evolution of political ideas, institutions, and practices over time, focusing on how political theories and systems have developed in response to historical contexts, events, and societal changes.
44
What does contextual analysis in the historical approach focus on?
Contextual analysis focuses on the social, cultural, economic, and technological conditions influencing political thought.
45
How does the historical approach investigate the influence of events?
The historical approach investigates how historical events such as wars and revolutions have shaped political theories.
46
What is the significance of intellectual traditions in the historical approach?
Intellectual traditions examine contributions from major political thinkers and the legacy of their ideas in shaping political thought.
47
How does the legal approach in political theory analyze political concepts?
The legal approach focuses on the study of political concepts, institutions, and practices through the lens of legal principles, norms, and frameworks, examining the role of law in shaping and regulating political behavior.
48
What is the rule of law and its importance in the legal approach?
The rule of law emphasizes the importance of fairness, equality, and accountability in governance, being crucial for the functioning of political institutions.
49
What role does judicial review play in the legal approach?
Judicial review investigates the judiciary's role in interpreting laws and ensuring the constitutionality of government actions.
50
What are legal frameworks in the context of the legal approach?
Legal frameworks focus on the exploration of constitutions, statutes, treaties, and regulations that govern political processes.
51
What are Human Rights Treaties?
Human Rights Treaties analyze how international legal norms influence domestic politics and uphold universal rights.
52
What does the legal approach in political theory emphasize?
The legal approach in political theory highlights the importance of legal frameworks in shaping political systems and protecting rights, providing insights into the interaction of legal norms and institutions with governance and political behavior.
53
What is the focus of the institutional approach in political theory?
The institutional approach focuses on the study of political systems, structures, and institutions as essential components of governance, examining how they function, interact, and influence political outcomes.
54
How do institutions contribute to political stability?
Institutions play a crucial role in ensuring political stability, social order, and the rule of law, thereby shaping the political landscape.
55
What is the significance of judicial review in the institutional approach?
Judicial review examines the judiciary's role in law interpretation, government action review, and constitutional compliance, highlighting the importance of judicial institutions in governance.
56
What are the key aspects of the institutional approach?
Key aspects include structures and mechanisms, power distribution, stability and order, policy formulation, and interactions and dynamics among institutions, civil society, and citizens.
57
What is the impact of e-governance on political institutions?
E-governance explores the effects of digital technologies on political institutions, including online voting and digital communication, influencing how governance is conducted.
58
How do presidential and parliamentary systems differ in the institutional approach?
Presidential vs. parliamentary systems compare how these systems distribute executive power and affect stability and accountability within governance.
59
What is the Behavioral Approach in Political Science?
The Behavioral Approach in Political Science emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to traditional approaches, emphasizing scientific and empirical methodologies to study political behavior through systematic data collection, statistical analysis, and experimental methods.
60
What are the key aspects of the Behavioral Approach?
The key aspects of the Behavioral Approach include empirical analysis, focus on individuals, quantitative methods, and predictive analysis, all aimed at understanding and predicting political behavior.
61
Who is David Easton and what is his contribution to behavioralism?
David Easton was a prominent political scientist known for his contributions to the behavioral approach, particularly through his concept of 'systems theory' and advocating for a scientific and empirical methodology in political science.
62
What does the principle of Regularities in behavioralism entail?
The principle of Regularities in behavioralism seeks to identify predictable patterns in political behavior, assuming that such behavior follows identifiable trends rather than being random.
63
What is the significance of Verification in the Behavioral Approach?
Verification in the Behavioral Approach underscores the importance of empirically testing hypotheses and theories through systematic research and data analysis to ensure that theories are supported by observable evidence.
64
What role does Technique play in the Behavioral Approach?
Technique in the Behavioral Approach involves the use of rigorous scientific methods for data collection and analysis, such as surveys and experiments, to systematically gather and interpret data on political behavior.
65
What is Quantification in the context of the Behavioral Approach?
Quantification in the Behavioral Approach involves measuring and analyzing data numerically to make objective comparisons and identify patterns in political behavior.
66
What is scientific inquiry in the context of behavioralism?
Scientific inquiry in behavioralism emphasizes the separation of values from facts, advocating for value-neutral analysis where personal values or biases do not influence the research on voter behavior.
67
What does systemization refer to in behavioralism?
Systemization in behavioralism promotes the systematic development of theories and their integration with empirical research to establish a scientific framework for understanding political behavior.
68
What is the significance of empirical foundation in behavioralism?
The empirical foundation in behavioralism, advocated by scholars like David Easton and Robert A. Dahl, prioritizes observable data over normative analysis, enhancing objectivity in political research.
69
How does behavioralism contribute to policy relevance?
Behavioral research informs policy-making by offering insights into electoral reform, governance, and public administration, thus making it relevant to practical political issues.
70
What are the criticisms leading to the decline of behavioralism?
Criticisms leading to the decline of behavioralism include its heavy emphasis on empirical data and quantification, which often overlooked qualitative aspects, and its perceived neglect of normative questions in political analysis.
71
What are the methodological limitations of behavioralism in political science?
The reliance on specific methodologies, such as surveys and statistical analysis, limits the scope of research and understanding of political phenomena, failing to capture the full depth of political beliefs, motivations, and actions.
72
What is post-behavioralism and its significance in political science?
Post-behavioralism emerged as a critique of behavioralism, advocating for a more integrated and holistic analysis of political phenomena, emphasizing contextual analysis, normative inclusion, interdisciplinary approaches, and understanding power dynamics and structures.
73
How does post-behavioralism incorporate contextual analysis in political research?
Post-behavioralism delves into the historical, cultural, and structural contexts influencing political behavior, offering a richer understanding of political dynamics by examining the backdrop of political movements and social inequalities.
74
What is the role of normative inclusion in post-behavioralism?
Normative inclusion in post-behavioralism incorporates ethical and value-based considerations into political analysis, recognizing their influence on political decisions and evaluating both empirical outcomes and ethical implications of policy changes.
75
What is the interdisciplinary approach in post-behavioralism?
The interdisciplinary approach in post-behavioralism integrates insights from sociology, philosophy, anthropology, and history, enriching political analysis with diverse perspectives to understand how social identities impact political choices.
76
How does post-behavioralism address power and structures in political outcomes?
Post-behavioralism highlights how power imbalances and institutional arrangements shape political outcomes, focusing on the influence of societal structures and power dynamics on policy implementation and political behavior.
77
What criticisms did scholars like Charles W. Mills and Chantal Mouffe have regarding value neutrality in research?
Mills and Mouffe argued that all research is inherently value-laden, and the pretense of objectivity could obscure underlying biases and power dynamics, leading to a reevaluation of the researcher's values in political science.
78
What is the Behavioral Approach in political theory?
The Behavioral Approach focuses primarily on empirical data and observable behavior, emphasizing quantitative methods, statistical analysis, and surveys.
79
What characterizes the Post-Behavioral Approach?
The Post-Behavioral Approach integrates empirical research with broader contextual and normative analysis, combining quantitative with qualitative methods and adopting an interdisciplinary approach.
80
What are the limitations of the Behavioral Approach regarding normative questions?
The Behavioral Approach tends to sideline normative questions and ethical considerations, aiming for value-neutral, objective analysis.
81
How does the Post-Behavioral Approach address power dynamics?
The Post-Behavioral Approach focuses on power dynamics, institutions, and societal structures affecting politics, recognizing their impact on political behavior.
82
What does the term 'Decline of Political Theory' refer to?
The Decline of Political Theory refers to the complex and debated notion that political theory is experiencing a decline due to fragmentation, specialization, and a focus on empirical research, though some argue it is evolving.
83
What argument does Sheldon Wolin make regarding political theory?
Sheldon Wolin argues that political theory has become increasingly fragmented and specialized, leading to a lack of cohesive discourse and understanding of broader foundational ideas.
84
What is the impact of neoliberal reason on political theory according to Wendy Brown?
Wendy Brown states that neoliberal reason, expressed through economic rationality, has subordinated democratic aspirations to market forces, reducing politics to mere economic management.
85
What is the argument presented by John Gunnell regarding the decline of political theory?
John Gunnell argues that political theory has declined in influence due to the dominance of positivist methodologies.
86
How has the shift towards practical policy analysis affected political theory?
The shift towards practical policy analysis has diminished the space for abstract theoretical debate, reflecting a broader orientation towards addressing real-world issues.
87
What role do technological changes play in the engagement with political ideas according to David Runciman?
Technological changes and the rise of digital media have transformed engagement with political ideas, favoring quick, accessible content over deep theoretical exploration.
88
How does David Held view the evolution of political theory?
David Held emphasizes that political theory is continuously evolving to address modern challenges, demonstrating the field's adaptability to complex phenomena.
89
What is Martha Nussbaum's perspective on interdisciplinary approaches in political theory?
Martha Nussbaum advocates for interdisciplinary approaches, highlighting the importance of drawing insights from various fields to provide a comprehensive understanding of political phenomena.
90
What does Jean Cohen observe about academic interest in political theory?
Jean Cohen observes that universities and academic institutions continue to offer courses and programs dedicated to political theory, suggesting an enduring interest in foundational political ideas.
91
How does political theory provide normative guidance in complex ethical dilemmas?
Political theory offers normative guidance by drawing upon its concepts to provide principled guidelines for policy-making in debates on ethical implications, such as those surrounding artificial intelligence and privacy rights.
92
What is the significance of public engagement in political theory according to Charles Taylor?
Charles Taylor highlights that political theory discussions influence societal values and shape public debates, with digital platforms providing avenues for wider dissemination of political theory ideas.
93
How do globalization and cultural diversity impact political theory concepts?
Globalization and cultural diversity stimulate reevaluation and expansion of political theory concepts, such as cosmopolitanism, which challenges traditional notions of sovereignty.
94
Why is theoretical depth necessary in understanding global issues?
The increasing complexity of global issues necessitates theoretical depth to understand underlying structures and dynamics, as seen in the study of global governance and international institutions.
95
What is the Resurgence of Political Theory?
The resurgence of political theory marks a renewed interest and revitalization of the field after periods of perceived decline, characterized by factors such as complex global challenges, ethical and normative concerns, interdisciplinary engagement, cultural and identity dynamics, globalization and cosmopolitanism, technology and political discourse, and reevaluation of historical theories.
96
How do complex global challenges contribute to the resurgence of political theory?
Complex global challenges, such as climate change, inequality, and technological advancements, have prompted renewed interest in political theory as scholars seek insights to navigate these issues, exemplified by eco-centric political theories explored by scholars like Robyn Eckersley.
97
What role do ethical and normative concerns play in the resurgence of political theory?
Ethical and normative concerns have led to the resurgence of political theory as a critical tool for addressing issues like distributive justice, with scholars like Martha Nussbaum advocating for the capabilities approach that emphasizes individuals' essential entitlements.
98
How is interdisciplinary engagement influencing the resurgence of political theory?
Interdisciplinary engagement is influencing the resurgence of political theory by integrating insights from economics and political analysis, as seen in the work of scholars like Amartya Sen, who bridge the gap between these fields for a holistic understanding.
99
What impact does globalization have on the resurgence of political theory?
Globalization has led to a renewed focus on cosmopolitan ideas that transcend national boundaries, prompting scholars like Kwame Anthony Appiah to explore how these ideas can reshape politics and influence governance.
100
How does technology contribute to the resurgence of political theory?
Technology contributes to the resurgence of political theory through online platforms and podcasts that engage the public in philosophical and political debates, making political theory more accessible and relevant to contemporary discussions.
101
What is the significance of reevaluating historical political theories in the context of the resurgence?
Reevaluating historical political theories in light of contemporary challenges allows for a deeper understanding of concepts like power, authority, and citizenship, as demonstrated by the revisiting of thinkers like Hannah Arendt.
102
What is Eurocentrism in post-colonial political theory?
Eurocentrism in post-colonial political theory serves as both a critique and a motivating factor for reevaluating global knowledge structures, questioning the Western-centric worldview that portrays European norms and values as universal standards.
103
Who critiqued Western stereotypes in the book 'Orientalism'?
Edward Said critiqued Western stereotypes in his book 'Orientalism,' discussing how the West depicts Eastern societies as exotic and backward.
104
What notable question did Gayatri Spivak pose regarding colonial narratives?
Gayatri Spivak posed the notable question 'Can the Subaltern Speak?' exploring whether suppressed non-Western voices can truly express themselves within Western frameworks.
105
What practical impact has post-colonial political theory had in academia?
In academia, there has been a shift towards integrating non-Western perspectives into curricula as a practical impact of post-colonial political theory.
106
How have anti-colonial movements responded to Eurocentric views?
Anti-colonial movements worldwide have resisted Eurocentric views to redefine independence and development, reflecting the practical impact of post-colonial political theory.

PSIR - Paper I - Part A (12 decks)

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