Political Science - Unit Test Notes (Expanded Points)
Q1. Define Political Science. Write about its Importance.
- Definition: From Greek 'Polis' (city-state). Aristotle = Father of Political Science.
- Traditional Definitions: Garner, Leacock (State & Govt.).
- Modern Definitions: Weber, Laswell (Power & Authority).
- Importance:
1. Understanding state & government.
2. Knowledge of rights & duties.
3. Solve political & social problems.
4. Strengthens democracy & political participation.
5. Protects liberty, equality & justice.
6. Prepares responsible citizenship.
7. Builds political consciousness.
8. Helps statesmanship & administration.
9. Connects with other social sciences.
10. Guides towards better future governance.
Q2. Scope of Political Science
- State & Government – origin, nature, functions.
- Political Theory – sovereignty, liberty, equality, justice.
- Comparative Politics – constitutions & govt. systems.
- International Relations – diplomacy, war, peace, UNO, WTO.
- Public Administration – bureaucracy, execution of policies.
- Political Ideologies – democracy, socialism, communism.
- Modern Focus – Power, Authority, Legitimacy (Easton, Laswell).
Q3. Nature of Political Science
- As a Science:
* Systematic, organized, based on observation & data.
* Some general principles, limited predictions possible.
- Not Pure Science:
* No universal laws (like physics).
* Human behaviour unpredictable, no fixed cause-effect.
- As an Art:
* Application of knowledge in governance & administration.
* Provides guidelines for rulers and citizens.
- Conclusion: Political Science is both Science & Art → best seen as a Social Science.
Q4. Relationship between Law & Political Science
- Law = rules regulating society.
- Political Science = study of state & power.
- Relationship: