Politics Flashcards
(64 cards)
What is the definition of Political Science?
Political Science is the study of the polis, a specialized study of the state, its government, and politics.
Polis is a Greek word meaning city, which is akin to today’s state.
Who is considered the Father of Political Science?
Aristotle
Aristotle’s work ‘Politics’ systematically studied and compared different political systems.
What are the years of Aristotle’s life?
384-322 BC
What significant contribution did Aristotle make to Political Science?
He introduced empirical methods in political study, revolutionizing the field.
Who coined the term ‘political science’?
Jean Bodin
He contributed significantly to the theory of sovereignty.
What are the years of Jean Bodin’s life?
1530-1596 AD
Who is credited with having created the first constitution?
Solon
Solon laid the foundations of Athenian democracy.
What are the years of Solon’s life?
630-560 BC
Who authored ‘The Republic’?
Plato
‘The Republic’ explores justice and the concept of a philosopher-king.
What are the years of Plato’s life?
428-348 BC
What is the most important quote attributed to Aristotle?
“Man is by nature a political animal.”
What is the most important quote attributed to Jean Bodin?
“Sovereignty is the absolute and perpetual power of a commonwealth.”
What is the most important quote attributed to Solon?
“Laws are like spiders’ webs which, if anything small falls into them they ensnare it, but large things break through and escape.”
What is the most important quote attributed to Plato?
“Justice means minding one’s own business and not meddling with other men’s concerns.”
What is the primary thrust of politics?
Order
Order seeks to understand how human life in the aggregate is ordered.
How is power defined in the context of politics?
Getting others to comply by creating the prospect of severe sanctions for noncompliance
This definition emphasizes the coercive aspect of political authority.
Who is often seen as the father of modern political theory?
Niccolò Machiavelli
His work ‘The Prince’ offers advice on political leadership and power.
What is the definition of justice in politics?
Application of power towards the interest of the people and not just for the few who rule
This concept emphasizes fairness and equity in governance.
What does the phrase ‘The end justifies the means’ suggest?
Moral justification of actions based on outcomes
This is often associated with Machiavellian philosophy.
What is police power?
Authority of the government to regulate behavior and enforce order for public welfare, safety, and health
In the Philippines, this forms the basis for health and safety regulations.
What is the power of eminent domain?
Power of the government to acquire private property for public use with just compensation
An example is the government constructing a highway and needing to obtain land.
What does the power of taxation refer to?
Capability of the government to impose charges or levies on individuals and entities to fund public services
This includes taxes like income tax, value-added tax, and property tax.
Which power of the state is used when a government imposes high taxes on harmful commodities?
Police Power
This is aimed at regulating behavior that affects public health.
Which power of the state is related to funding public services through levies?
Power of Taxation
This is essential for the operation of government and public projects.