Unit 1

Question 1

What is Comparative Politics?

Answer 1

The study and comparison of political systems, institutions, processes, and behavior across different countries

Comparative politics seeks to understand how political systems operate and the factors that influence their development.

Question 2

What is the Comparative Method?

Answer 2

A research approach used to compare political systems and phenomena to identify patterns and causal relationships

This method can involve case studies, cross-national comparisons, and the use of both qualitative and quantitative data.

Question 3

Define Causation.

Answer 3

The relationship between cause and effect, where one event leads to the occurrence of another

Understanding causation is crucial for analyzing political events and outcomes.

Question 4

Define Correlation.

Answer 4

A statistical relationship between two variables, indicating how they change together, but not necessarily implying causation

Correlation can be positive, negative, or zero, but it does not confirm that one variable causes the other.

Question 5

What is an Empirical Statement?

Answer 5

A statement based on observable and measurable evidence

Empirical statements can be tested and verified through research and data collection.

Question 6

What is a Normative Statement?

Answer 6

A statement that expresses a value judgment or opinion about what ought to be

Normative statements often reflect beliefs and ideologies rather than objective facts.

Question 7

Define Quantitative Data.

Answer 7

Data that can be measured and expressed numerically

Quantitative data is often used in statistical analyses and can be aggregated to identify trends.

Question 8

Define Qualitative Data.

Answer 8

Data that describes qualities or characteristics, often collected through interviews, observations, or open-ended surveys

Qualitative data provides depth and context to quantitative findings.

Question 9

What is Source Analysis?

Answer 9

The evaluation of the origin, credibility, and relevance of information sources

Source analysis is critical in research to ensure the reliability of data and conclusions drawn.

Question 10

What does the Human Development Index (HDI) measure?

Answer 10

A composite index measuring average achievement in three basic aspects of human development: health, education, and standard of living

HDI is used to assess the development levels of countries and compare them.

Question 11

What is Gross Domestic Product (GDP)?

Answer 11

The total value of all goods and services produced within a country in a specific period, usually annually

GDP is a key indicator of economic performance and growth.

Question 12

What does GDP Per Capita represent?

Answer 12

The total GDP of a country divided by its population, indicating the average economic output per person

GDP per capita is often used to compare economic performance and living standards between countries.

Question 13

What does GDP stand for?

Answer 13

Gross Domestic Product

GDP measures the economic performance of a country.

Question 14

What is the Growth Rate Gird Index used for?

Answer 14

It measures the economic growth rates of countries over time.

Question 15

What organization is associated with the Corruption Perceptions Index?

Answer 15

Transparency International

This index ranks countries by their perceived levels of corruption.

Question 16

Define ‘Democratic Consolidation’.

Answer 16

The process through which a new democracy matures.

Question 17

What is a ‘Strong State’?

Answer 17

A state capable of enforcing laws and maintaining order effectively.

Question 18

What characterizes a ‘Failed State’?

Answer 18

A state that cannot provide basic government functions or services.

Question 19

What does the Fragile States Index assess?

Answer 19

The vulnerability of states to collapse or conflict.

Question 20

What is ‘Sovereignty’?

Answer 20

The authority of a state to govern itself.

Question 21

What does ‘International Recognition’ refer to?

Answer 21

Acknowledgment by other states of a nation’s sovereignty.

Question 22

What is a ‘Regime’?

Answer 22

A form of government or a set of rules governing a state.

Question 23

What is ‘Regime Change’?

Answer 23

The replacement of one government regime with another.

Question 24

Define ‘Coup’.

Answer 24

A sudden, illegal seizure of government power.

Question 25

What is a 'Revolution'?

Answer 25

A significant change in political power or organizational structures.

Question 26

What does 'Nationalism' mean?

Answer 26

A political ideology centered on promoting a nation's interests.

Question 27

What is 'Liberal Democracy'?

Answer 27

A political system characterized by fair elections and individual rights.

Question 28

Define 'Authoritarian State'.

Answer 28

A government that concentrates power in a leader or a small elite.

Question 29

What is a 'Totalitarian State'?

Answer 29

An extreme form of authoritarianism where the state seeks to control all aspects of life.

Question 30

What does 'illiberal/Flawed/Hybrid Democracy' refer to?

Answer 30

A political system that combines elements of democracy with authoritarian practices.

Question 31

What is 'Rule of Law'?

Answer 31

The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable under the law.

Question 32

What is 'Rule by Law'?

Answer 32

The use of law by those in power to maintain their authority.

Question 33

Define 'Transparency'.

Answer 33

The openness of government actions and decision-making processes.

Question 34

What does 'Democratization' mean?

Answer 34

The transition from an authoritarian regime to a democratic one.

Question 35

What is 'Democratic Backsliding'?

Answer 35

The gradual decline in the quality of democracy.

Question 36

What is the difference between 'Power' and 'Authority'?

Answer 36

'Power' is the ability to influence or control others, while 'Authority' is the recognized right to do so.

Question 37

What is Theocracy?

Answer 37

A system of government in which priests rule in the name of God or a deity ## Footnote Theocracy combines religious authority with political governance.

Question 38

Define Coercion in a political context.

Answer 38

The practice of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats ## Footnote Coercion can undermine legitimacy and political efficacy.

Question 39

What is Political Efficacy?

Answer 39

The belief that one's actions can influence political processes ## Footnote It is a key factor in voter participation and civic engagement.

Question 40

List the three types of legitimacy.

Answer 40

* Traditional Legitimacy * Charismatic Legitimacy * Rational-Legal Legitimacy ## Footnote Each type of legitimacy derives authority from different sources.

Question 41

What is Traditional Legitimacy?

Answer 41

Legitimacy derived from longstanding practices and customs ## Footnote Often associated with monarchies and hereditary rule.

Question 42

Define Charismatic Legitimacy.

Answer 42

Legitimacy based on the personal charm and appeal of a leader ## Footnote Charismatic leaders often inspire loyalty and devotion.

Question 43

What is Rational-Legal Legitimacy?

Answer 43

Legitimacy grounded in established laws and procedures ## Footnote Common in modern democracies and bureaucratic systems.

Question 44

What is a Unitary System?

Answer 44

A system of governance where power is centralized in a single national government ## Footnote Local governments may exist but have limited power.

Question 45

Define Federal System.

Answer 45

A system of governance where power is divided between a central government and regional governments ## Footnote This allows for multiple levels of government with specific powers.

Question 46

What does Devolution refer to?

Answer 46

The transfer of power from a central government to regional or local governments ## Footnote Devolution can enhance local governance and responsiveness.

Question 47

What is Patron-Clientelism?

Answer 47

A political system where goods and services are exchanged for political support ## Footnote This system can create dependency and undermine democratic accountability.

Question 48

Define Civil-Service System.

Answer 48

A system that ensures government positions are filled based on merit rather than political connections ## Footnote This promotes professionalism and efficiency in government operations.

Question 49

What is a Welfare State?

Answer 49

A government that provides for the social and economic well-being of its citizens ## Footnote Welfare states typically offer health care, education, and social security.

Question 50

What does Parliamentary Sovereignty mean?

Answer 50

The principle that Parliament has the supreme legal authority in the state ## Footnote This means that Parliament can create or end any law without restrictions.

Question 51

Define Asymmetrical Federalism.

Answer 51

A federal system where different regions have varying degrees of power and autonomy ## Footnote This can lead to inequalities in governance and representation.

Question 52

What is Sharia Law?

Answer 52

Islamic legal system derived from the Quran and Hadith ## Footnote Sharia governs various aspects of life, including moral conduct and legal matters.

Question 53

What is Dual Rule?

Answer 53

A governance system where two distinct authorities coexist and share power ## Footnote This can lead to conflicts and complexities in governance.

Question 54

What does the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) represent?

Answer 54

The ruling political party in China, founded in 1921 ## Footnote The CCP leads the state and society under a single-party system.

Question 55

Define Communism.

Answer 55

A political and economic ideology advocating for a classless society and collective ownership of the means of production ## Footnote Communism seeks to eliminate private property to achieve equality.