Political Theory: An Introduction
NCERT Solutions • Class 11 Political Theory • Chapter 1Objective Type Questions
1. Which of the following statements are true/false about Political Theory?
- (a) It discusses ideas that form the basis of political institutions. — True (e.g., Democracy, Rights).
- (b) It explains the relationship between different religions. — False (This falls under Sociology or Comparative Religion, though Political Theory may study secularism).
- (c) It explains the meanings of concepts like equality and freedom. — True (Core function of political theory).
- (d) It predicts the performance of political parties. — False (This is Psephology or Election Analysis, not Theory).
Critical Thinking
2. “Politics is more than what politicians do.” Do you agree with this statement? Give examples.
Yes, I agree completely.
Politics is often narrowly associated with politicians, elections, and corruption (“dirty politics”). However, in a broader sense, politics is the activity of making collective decisions that shape our social life.
Examples:
Politics is often narrowly associated with politicians, elections, and corruption (“dirty politics”). However, in a broader sense, politics is the activity of making collective decisions that shape our social life.
Examples:
- Negotiation: When students negotiate with the principal for a sports day, they are engaging in politics (collective decision-making).
- Activism: When citizens protest against pollution or demand better roads, they are engaging in political action to influence policy.
- Family Dynamics: Even within a family, deciding how to spend a budget involves negotiation and power dynamics, which is political in nature.
3. Vigilant citizens are a must for the successful working of a democracy. Comment.
Comment: Democracy is not a spectator sport; it requires active participation.
Vigilance is necessary because:
Comment: Democracy is not a spectator sport; it requires active participation.
Vigilance is necessary because:
- Accountability: If citizens are indifferent, leaders may become corrupt or authoritarian. Vigilance forces them to be answerable.
- Policy Feedback: Citizens must react to policies (e.g., protesting bad laws or supporting good ones) to ensure the government acts in public interest.
- Protecting Rights: Vigilant citizens stand up when rights are violated (e.g., filing RTIs or PILs), ensuring the constitution is upheld.
Relevance of Political Theory
4. In what ways is the study of political theory useful for us? Identify four ways.
Political theory is useful in the following ways:
- Understanding Concepts: It clarifies the meaning of key concepts like Freedom, Equality, and Justice, helping us understand the foundations of our constitution.
- Developing Critical Thinking: It teaches us to examine arguments systematically rather than accepting opinions blindly. We learn to debate issues like reservations or secularism logically.
- Responsible Citizenship: It makes us aware of our rights and duties, empowering us to participate effectively in democratic processes (voting, debates).
- Interpreting the Future: It helps us adapt old values to new situations (e.g., how the concept of “Right to Privacy” applies to the Internet age).
5. Do you think that a good/convincing argument can compel others to listen to you?
Yes.
In a democracy, force or shouting cannot win lasting support. Reason and logic are the most powerful tools.
When we debate issues (like equality), we often encounter others with different views. If we present a rational argument—showing how a policy benefits the common good rather than just self-interest—it forces opponents to reconsider their stance. Even if they don’t agree immediately, a good argument commands respect and opens the door for dialogue and compromise.
In a democracy, force or shouting cannot win lasting support. Reason and logic are the most powerful tools.
When we debate issues (like equality), we often encounter others with different views. If we present a rational argument—showing how a policy benefits the common good rather than just self-interest—it forces opponents to reconsider their stance. Even if they don’t agree immediately, a good argument commands respect and opens the door for dialogue and compromise.
Nature of the Subject
6. Do you think studying political theory is like studying mathematics? Give reasons.
No, studying political theory is NOT like studying mathematics.
Reasons:
Reasons:
- Exactness vs. Interpretation: In mathematics, there is usually one precise, correct answer (e.g., $2+2=4$ or the area of a triangle). In political theory, concepts like “Freedom” or “Equality” have multiple interpretations depending on the context.
- Human Element: Mathematics deals with abstract numbers and fixed laws. Political theory deals with human beings, societies, and emotions, which are dynamic and changeable.
- Debate: In math, you don’t debate the value of Pi. In political theory, we constantly debate what constitutes “Justice”—definitions evolve over time and across cultures.