CBSE Class 11

Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 5 Rights. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 5 Important Extra Questions Rights

Rights Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type

Question 1.
What do you mean by Rights?
Answer:
Rights are the claims, demands, circumstances, facilities and demands of the people which they make on families, institutions, societies and state and to whom they consider very necessary for their around the development. A right is essentially an entitlement or a justified claim. Rights are those conditions which we consider as our dues. Every expectation cannot be called as the right. These are primarily those facilities which are regarded as necessary for leading a decent, respected and dignified life. Right, are facilities which are accepted by society and granted by the state.

Question 2.
What are the characteristics of the state?
Answer:
On the basis of definitions and understanding of the rights, followings are the main characteristics of the rights:

1. Rights are necessary conditions.
2. Rights are necessary for the development,
3. Right, are claims on society and state.
4. Rights are allowed by society.
5. Rights put limits on the sovereignty of the state.
6. Rights of the people and their duties are linked with each other.
7. Rights are variable from place to place and from time to time.

Question 3.
What do you mean by universal rights? Name them.
Answer:
That minimum socio, economic, cultural conditions which are demanded and expected by the people of all time and societies universally are called as the universal rights: In fact, universal rights are those rights which are considered basic for a decent and dignified life.

Followings are the three main universal rights:

1. Right of Livelihood.
2. Right of Expression.
3. Right of Education.

Question 4.
Why the rights are necessary?
Answer:
Rights are necessary conditions for our well-being. They help individuals to develop the talents and skills of the citizens. Without the availability of the rights, the fuller development of the citizens is not possible. Rights not only provide necessary conditions and facilities for the development but also promote confidence among the citizens. Many states make distinctions and discriminations in providing rights.

Question 5.
What do you mean by Fundamental Rights?
Answer:
Fundamental Rights are those conditions, facilities and rights which are considered very necessary for the development of its citizens and which are given a place in the Constitution and which are fundamental in governance. Fundamental Rights and democratic governments have become synonymous. All the liberal democratic states provide Fundamental Rights to its citizen. Fundamental rights are generally; justiciable which means if the Fundamental Rights are denied by the state, the citizens can move to the court. In this way, Fundamental Rights put check on the arbitrariness of the citizens.

Question 6.
What do you mean by Human Rights?
Answer:
Human Rights are those conditions, mode of behaviour which one expects and demands being a human being, The assumption behind human rights is that all persons are entitled to certain things, ‘ mode of behaviour, working and living conditions because they are human beings. A human being is emotional and intellectual, hence he needs behaviour accordingly. As a human being, each person is unique and valuable.

Question 7.
Name the Fundamental Rights which are given in the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
In the beginning, the Indian Constitution had seven Fundamental Rights but one Right i.e. Right of Property was deleted in 1979 by 99th constitutional amendment. Now there are six Fundamental Rights which are as under:

1. Right of Equality
2. Right of Liberty
3. Right against Exploitation
4. Right of Religious Liberty.
5. Right of Education and Culture
6. Right of Constitutional Remedies:

Question 8.
What do you mean by Political Rights?
Answer:
Political Rights are those rights which enable the people to express their views on a different issue, and allow them to participate in the democratic process like, right to vote, right to contest, right to form an association and political parties, right to oppose. Political Rights are also a necessary part of the democratic process. Political Rights also include the right of a fair trial, the right to equality before the law. Political rights are linked with civil liberties. Rights to protest and express dissent is also political right.

Question 9.
How do rights affect the state?
Answer:
Political and all other rights are demands and claims from the state. Therefore these rights in the form of demand limit and check the authority of the state. Rights mould the state to do or not to do things. The rights place an obligation upon the state to act to certain kind of ways. Rights suggest state, what it should refrain from doing and what it should do for the people. It is through the rights, that the demands are put on the state. Therefore rights are directly related to the working of state.

Question 10.
What are Economic Rights?
Answer:
Economic Rights are the most important rights for sustaining life. These are the demands and claims which are required for leading a decent and qualitative life. Important economic rights are:

1. Right of livelihood
2. Right of minimum adequate wages
3. Right of leisure
4. Right of having minimum basic needs of shelter, food, clothes and wages
5. Right of compensation GTC.

Without these economic conditions, life is miserable.

Question 11.
What do you mean by Cultural Rights?
Answer:
Man is the product of his cultural background therefore for his emotional and psychological development he needs cultural rights which are the condition of culture, dress, festivals, direct, language, dress pattern, foods and customs. Without the availability of rights in these areas, no fuller development of man is possible. Aman becomes complete only by his cultural development which inculcates manners and etiquettes in him and promotes his personality development.

Question 12.
Explain the importance of Right of Education.
Answer:
The awareness of the right of education is on increase in the whole international community. It has become an international commitment. All the states are making every effort to promote their literacy percentage. Educational rights help individuals to develop their talents and skills. Education brightens reasons and mental facilities of man and gives us useful skill. Considering the importance of education, the right to education is becoming a universal right.

Question 13.
How the rights limit the authority of the state?
Answer:
The state has sovereign authority over the people living in the given territory of the state. But rights are the demands and claims bn the state which put the state to do certain things or not to do certain things. Therefore rights put a check on the authority of the state. In fact, the authority of the state is influenced by the obligation put by the demands of the people in the form of rights. These rights place an obligation upon the state to act in certain kinds of ways. Each right indicates what the state must do as well as what it must not do. In this way, rights limit the authority of the state.

Question 14.
What is the natural theory of rights?
Answer:
Supporters of the natural theory of rights argue that rights are given to us by nature. It means we had rights when we are born. These rights of men were derived from the natural law and not the creation of state OF society. These rights are natural, which cannot be taken by anyone in any circumstance. Supporters of this theory consider three important basic rights:

1. Right to life
2. Right to liberty
3. Right to property.

They say that all other rights are derived from these rights.

Question 15.
What do you mean by Moral Rights?
Answer:
Certain expectations, demands and expectations are made on the basis of moral ground. These are known as moral rights. They do not carry compulsion or any kind of legality. These rights are based on the appeal to the moral self. For example, it is the moral right of the old age people and a disabled person or blind person to expect support from the abled person. Similarly, it is the right of parents, teachers and elders to expect respect from the younger generation.

Rights Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1.
Explain the meaning of the concept of rights.
Answer:
Everybody irrespective of his socio, economic and educational status, talks of his/her rights but only a few people know the real meaning of the concept of rights. People generally understand the rights in terms of their claims, expectations, necessities and demands but know little about obligations related to it.

Rights are certain circumstances, facilities which we can say as demands and claims which are necessary for the all-round development of man. Rights have been viewed differently in different ages and in different circumstances. Rights are the product of circumstances and the nature of society. Therefore the rights are essentially the entitlement or we can say justified claims. Laski has defined rights as the essential conditions which are necessary for human development and welfare.

Question 2.
Write the main essential features of rights.
Answer:
Rights are universally accepted as the socio, economic conditions, circumstances in the form of claims and demands, which are necessary .for human development and welfare. These are to be accepted by society and state. Followings are the main essential features of Rights:

1. Rights are available in collective or group life only.
2. Rights are the socio, economic or environmental conditions.
3. Rights are necessary for man’s development and welfare.
4. Rights cannot be absolute in collective life.
5. Rights are not stationary, they are changeable from time to time and place.
6. Rights and duties are two sides of the same coin.
7. Rights are obligations on the state.

Question 3.
Differentiate between Liberal and Marxist theories of Rights.
Answer:
In the seventeenth and eighteenth century, political theorists argued that rights are given by nature or God. The rights of men are derived from nature i.e. man got his rights with his birth which cannot be taken by anyone. Liberal thinkers consider the rights as the product of circumstances which are of varied nature. Naturalists consider right of life, right to liberty and right of property as the natural rights, while the liberal thinkers, appreciating the importance of these natural rights, keep the emphasis on political rights like rule of law, right of equality, right to vote, right of election and formation of the association and political parties.

They have priority for civic rights. On the other hand Marxist regard the rights of the economic environment and give importance to economic rights as more necessary for man’s development and welfare. For them, economic rights like the right to work, equal and adequate wages, compensation, leisure and property are more necessary than political rights.

Question 4.
Discuss the importance of Rights.
Answer:
As discussed earlier the rights are conditions of life demands and expectations, which a person has from the family, society and state. v Without these rights man’s development is not possible. We can understand the importance of rights in the following points:

1. Rights are necessary for man’s personality development.
2. Rights are necessary for the welfare of the people.
3. Rights keep the man’s moral high and strengthen him psychologically also.
4. Rights put check on the state.
5. Rights evoke duties on others.

Question 5.
What do you mean by Universal Rights? Explain them.
Answer:
Certain rights are those conditions which are universally expected, demanded and claimed by the people of all the societies as basic conditions for the personality development, moral and psychological development and welfare of the people. Following are considered as universal rights:

1. The right to Livelihood – It is considered very necessary because it gives man gainful employment and economic independence which is necessary for leading life and dignity.
2. The right of Expression – This right gives us the opportunity to express us freely and gives us the opportunity to be creative and original. It gives us the freedom to express us by speaking, writing, dancing or by any artistic method.
3. The right of Education – It is another important right which is considered as universal because it helps in the development of talents and skills of man. It brings refinement, enlightenment and empowerment in man. It helps in the development of capacities of reasons.

Question 6.
How the rights limit the state?
Answer:
Rights are claims and demands of the people against the state. Rights are necessary conditions and circumstances which a state is supposed to give to its citizens for their development and welfare. It is therefore these rights are obligations of the state which certainly limit the authority and working of the state. Rights in a way direct the state to do certain things in a way, the people expect and demand. Rights put the state to think and act as per the desired level of living of the people.

Question 7.
Explain the meaning and importance of Fundamental Rights.
Answer:
Fundamental Rights are those rights which have been considered very important and necessary by the state for the development and welfare of the citizens. Fundamental Rights are those rights which are placed in the Constitution by the states and are fundamental in governance. Fundamental Rights’ importance lies in the fact that these are basic socio, cultural and political and religious conditions of life which gives confidence among the citizens. These rights promote the personality of citizens and empower them.

In most of the democracies, Fundamental Rights are made justiciable which means that if the Fundamental Rights are violated at any level by the executive or legislatures, one can move to the courts for their enforcement. Fundamental Rights are thus protector of citizen’s liberties and also democracy. Fundamental Rights have become synonyms of democracy. The level of democracy is judged by the kind of Fundamental Rights available in that society.

Question 8.
Describe the Fundamental Rights available in Indian Constitution.
Answer:
Indian society has been the victim of exploitation and injustice in the hands of British colonial rule in which common man suffered a lot. Constitution-makers feel the need of Fundamental Rights for the people and incorporated these fundamental rights in the third part of the Constitution.

1. Right of equality
2. Right of liberty
3. Right against exploitation
4. Right of religious liberty
5. Right of education and culture
6. Right of property (Now it is only legal right)
7. Right of constitutional remedies.

Question 9.
Write the importance of Fundamental Right of Constitutional remedies as given in the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
Right of Constitutional Remedies which is the last right given in the Indian Constitution and is the most important right because it the right which makes the Fundamental Rights justiciable. It is this right of Constitutional Remedies which enables the citizens to move to the court if any of the Fundamental Right is violated by the executive, legislature or by the bureaucracy. In this way, this is the right which put check on the arbitrariness of the state. A citizen of India can move to the Supreme Court under Art. 32 and can move to the High Courts if Fundamental Rights are violated which give necessary directions to the respondent for giving remedy to the appellant.

Question 10.
What do you mean by Human Rights? What is its importance?
Answer:
Mode of behaviour, facilities, living conditions and working conditions which are expected, demand and claim for being a human being are called the Human Rights. The assumption behind human rights is that all persons are entitled to certain things simply because they are human beings. As a human being, each person is unique and equally valuable. Therefore human beings irrespective of their caste, colour and sex need humane treatment. All persons should be given equal opportunities and proper working conditions for the expression and exploitation of the potentials. Development and promotion of Human Rights have become an international concern and the UN is playing a very useful role in promoting awareness about Human Rights for leading a life of dignity and self-respect.

Question 11.
Discuss the role of UN in the promotion of Human, Rights.
Answer:
With the development of democracy and education, the concern for the realisation of Human Rights has become a global issue. Urge for a better life and better living is on increase. UN has become the instrument of strengthening the demand and urge for Human Rights. UN has passed an international Human Rights Declaration-1948 in which it has set up certain norms for the cause of Human Rights. All the signatories of the declaration are supposed to provide necessary conditions for the realisation of norms of Human Rights.

International Human Rights Commission has been set up to promote and monitor the level of Human Rights in different parts of the world. The important areas in which the human conditions are expected and demanded are N employment, working conditions, health, food, housing, drinking water and other environmental and ecological order. UN has become the forum of international discussion, debate and recommendations and follows up actions.

Question 12.
What do you mean by Moral Rights?
Answer:
Moral Rights are those expectations which we have on moral grounds. As we know that groups provide the necessary conditions for realising the idea of rights. Moral rights do not have legal binding, they have just moral binding which has little acceptance in the eye of law.

A poor man, a disabled man, an old man need the help of society on the moral ground because of their disabilities. Fathers, mothers and elders need a particular type of behaviour from the younger generation on moral grounds. A teacher expects obedience and regards from the students on moral grounds.

Question 13.
Explain important Political Rights.
Answer:
Political Rights have become more important and popular rather universal with the development of democracy in the world. Every democracy gives the citizens number of political rights which gives the right to equality before the law and the right to participate in the political process. Political rights are as under:

1. Right to vote
2. Right to elect a representative.
3. Right to contest elections.
4. Right to form political parties
5. Right to oppose and differ
6. Right of expression
7. Right of a free and fair trial
8. Right to protest
9. Right of civil liberties.

Political liberties and rights form the basis of the democratic system and human development.

Question 14.
Explain the importance of Economic Rights.
Answer:
Economic rights are those conditions and demands which are 4 needed for sustaining life. These are very important for the physical development of man. Marxists give priority to economic rights in comparison to political rights. Followings are the main economic rights:

1. Right of employment
2. Right of the fulfilment of basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, health and clean drinking water
3. Right of proper working conditions
4. Right of adequate wages
5. Right of leisure
6. Right of property
7. Right of compensation.

Question 15.
How Rights and Liberties are linked together?
Answer:
The idea and conception of rights are conceivable only in groups and society. The realisation of right is not possible in isolation.

The rights are those claims, expectations which are demanded by others. In this situation, the right of one person is the duty of others. If the other person does not performs his or her duty the first person cannot get the right. Similarly, if one person does not perform his/her duty the other person cannot get this duty. In his way, we can say that one’s right – is another’s right and another’s duty is the first person’s right. It is rightly said that rights and duties are the two sides of the same coin. This is applicable in every group life whether it is a group of friends, family, society, nation or the international community. The rights do not place obligations on the state only to act in a certain way, but they also place obligations upon the man to think not just for his\ her rights and interests \ but also for the rights and interests of others also.

Question 16.
Cultural rights are in increasing demand. Explain.
Answer:
Besides the political and economic rights, cultural rights have assumed more and more important in the era of the welfare state and global awareness. People have become more and more aware of their region, language, culture, dresses, dialects, language and festivals. Most of the democratic states have given more and more cultural rights to their citizens considering the importance of these rights for their psychological and moral development. The list of such rights has increased in democracies. These have become necessary for human development.

Rights Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1.
Explain the meaning and development of rights in modern welfare states.
Answer:
Since the beginning of human life man always expected, demanded and claimed certain basic things to lead a decent and dignified life. These are known as rights. These rights varied from time to time and place to place as per the availability of resources and level of awareness of the people. Welfare nature of the state development of education and global democratic culture has made the people more and more aware of their rights and level of rights has also changed manifold.

The states are increasingly adopting democratic systems and are giving more and more rights to the citizens. Some rights have been accepted as Fundamental in the governance considering very essential for human development and giving them a decent and dignified life. Economic rights, political rights and cultural rights have been listed out for achieving them. Since rights like the right of expression, the right of adequate wages and employment and right of education have been declared as universal rights.

In today’s world, not only basic conditions of life and fundamental rights have become important but human dignity and human personality have assumed importance, and a new concept of Human Right has emerged on the scene. Human rights are demanded on the basis of an assumption that human beings need certain basic needs, mode of behaviour and treatment because they are human beings. They have emotions, feelings and dreams. As a human being, they need respect for their personality and wishes. Human is unique and valuable. Thus there rights have become more and more important in the present-day world. UN is playing important role in achieving Fundamental Rights and Human Rights.

Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 4 Social Justice. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 4 Important Extra Questions Social Justice

Social Justice Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type

Question 1.
What do you mean by social justice?
Answer:
The literal meaning of the word justice means to give what is one’s due. It also means that a thing should go to whom it belongs or deserves. In an ancient society of India justice was associated with dharma and morality i.e. to do a thing or not to do a thing. It was also concerned with building and maintaining adjusted the order. Confucius the great Chinese philosopher said that as part of justice kings should maintain justice by punishing wrongdoers and rewarding the virtuous. Plato discussed justice in his famous book Republic as the interest of stronger and fulfillment of each class of the state, its duty in its area of jurisdiction and not to interfere in other’s matters. The idea that justice involves giving his due continues to be an important part of our present-day understanding of the idea of justice.

Question 2.
How you will explain justice as one’s due?
Answer:
The main understanding about justice has been in terms of one’s due in the system. However what is and what ought to be one’s due has been understood differently in different, periods and different societies. Today our understanding of what is due to each person as a human being. According to German philosopher Immanuel Kant, human beings have dignity. If all persons are granted dignity, then the due to each of them is that they have the opportunity to develop their talents and pursue their chosen goals. Justice requires that we give due and equal consideration to all the individual. That is the essence of the concept in terms of one’s due.

Question 3.
What are the essentials of justice in modern society?
Answer:
The idea of justice today has many essentials to constitute the sense of justness. Essential conditions are as under :

1. Equal treatment with all
2. Fulfillment of essential basic needs
3. Impartiality
4. Truth
5. Honesty.

Question 4.
What do you mean by distributive justice?
Answer:
Distributive justice is based on the modem structure of socio-economic relations of the members of the society. It is based on the hypothesis that there is a number of opportunities’ rewards and benefits in the system. They should be distributed on the basis of the worth and talents of the people. Positions are scattered in the society which should be distributed as per worth. That is the essence of the idea of justice. It also suggests that social goods and social duties are distributed among different members of the society.

Question 5.
How equality of treatment is essential for justice?
Answer:
Equality of treatment is an essential element of the concept of justice. Equality of treatment means that all persons should be treated equally and no discrimination should be made on the ground of caste, color, region, religion, and sex. Equality of treatment is essential because all human beings generally share equal hopes, aspirations and emotions, and feelings. Therefore they need equal respect and behavior for their justiciable development. As a part of the equality of treatment principle, efforts are being made to give equal civic, political, and economic rights in most democratic and liberal societies. Forgiving one’s due, equality of treatment is very much an essential requirement.

Question 6.
What do you mean by proportionate justice?
Answer:
The principle of equality of treatment to all is not absolute as it can be applied everywhere and every time. Only in similar conditions, equality of treatment is feasible and desirable also but in dissimilar conditions neither it is feasible nor it is desirable. For this purpose, there is the principle of proportionate justice which means that rewards and benefits should be on the principle of proportionately i.e. in proportionate.

Question 7.
How the principle of recognition for special needs is conducive to the concept of justice?
Answer:
Justice is generally considered and accepted as a situation giving each person his due. But certain people or class of people have been denied their due place and due claims due to certain physical and environmental factors. In the true earnest of justice, these handicaps are to be removed by fulfilling the special needs of such people or the class of the people. This will be considered a way of promoting justice. The idea behind it is that people with certain disabilities of different kinds deserve special help and consideration for the sake of justice.

Question 8.
How does the reservation help in social justice?
Answer:
Reservation is an effort to do justice to the people, who had suffered injustice in history. It is an effort to fulfill the special needs of the people who had been victims of a negative and oppressive socio-economic environment. It is a sort of corrective measure. In a way, it is leveling process. This is done as positive discrimination because to some extent it violates the principle of equality of treatment to all. Its purpose is to establish justice at various levels.

Question 9.
What is the position of reservation in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
In Indian society large section of the society has been exploited a lot and had suffered injustice at social, economic, and political levels. Mainly scheduled caste people and scheduled tribe people had suffered in Indian society.

Indian Constitution-makers realizing the plight of the exploited class, provided the feature of reservation in employment and parliament and State Legislatures. Its purpose is to harmonize the different class relationships and to promote a just society.

Question 10.
Give some measures of the Indian Constitution whose purpose is to establish social justice.
Answer:
Constitution makers have introduced a number of measures for promoting social justice. Some of them are:

1. Fundamental Rights.
2. Provision of reservation in employment, educational institutions, and in legislative bodies like Parliament and State Legislature.
3. Removal of untouchability.
4. Directive Principles of State policy.

Question 11.
Explain the concept of the veil of ignorance of John Rawls.
Answer:
The imagined veil of ignorance is the first step in arriving at a system of fair laws and policies. It suggests that a rational person will not only see things from the perspective of worst off, they will also try to ensure that the policies they frame, should benefit the society as a whole. Therefore it would be in the interests of all that society as a whole should benefit from the rules and policies that are decided not just any particular section. Such fairness would be the outcome of rational action.

Question 12.
What is John Rawl’s ultimate view of social justice?
Answer:
John Rawl’s final analysis of social justice is based on his argument that rational thinking and not morality could lead us to be fair and judge impartially regarding how to distribute the benefits and burdens of society. He concludes that fairness and justice are complementary to each other. Fairness is divorced from morality and over-enthusiasm. It is the rational distribution of benefits and burdens which is the core of social justice.

Question 13.
How can we decide what are the basic minimum conditions of life needed by people?
Answer:
Although norms for the basic minimum conditions may vary from society to society and place to place. But even then some common minimum conditions can be given which are considered necessary for a human being irrespective of his place or society. Various methods of calculating the basic needs of the people have been devised by different national and international organizations at the government level as well as the private level. On the basis of observations of these organizations, it is agreed that the basic amount of nourishment needed to remain healthy, housing, a supply of clean drinking water, education, and a minimum wage would constitute an important part of basic conditions.

Question 14.
How does a free-market economy affect social justice?
Answer:
Supporters of a free-market economy say that as far as possible, an individual should be free in his or her economic pursuits for his/her development which is the essence of justice. They should be free to compete with each other in different areas of life to gain greater benefits and improve the quality of life.

In a free-market economy which is based on open competition, we may get better services and goods of higher quality but the negative aspect is that access to this system will be of a minimum section of the society and a larger section of the society will be deprived of. Hence it will not improve social justice for all.

Question 15.
What was the proposition of an ideal society according to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?
Answer:
According to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, just society is that society in which ascending sense of reverence and descending sense of contempt is dissolved into the creation of a compassionate society’.

Social Justice Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1.
Explain the concept of justice.
Answer:
Justice has ever been in demand in all ages but the viewpoints about the contents and essentials of justice, demanded and expected by the people have been different, depending on the prevailing socio¬economic environment. In ancient Indian society, justice was associated with ‘dharma’ and maintaining dharma i.e. social order. Justice literally has been understood with the Latin word ‘Jesus’ i.e. just i.e. what is one’s due. In China, the philosopher Confucius argued that kings should maintain justice by punishing wrongdoers and rewarding the virtuous.

Plato in his famous book ‘The Republic’ explains justice in terms of working of three classes of the society in their own areas and not interfering in other’s matters. He considered justice as a condition of harmonious relations among the three classes of the society which are formed corresponding to the three elements of the human soul. In the modem period, it is related to more availability of essential conditions of life on equality and just basis to build a just society.

Question 2.
Justice is one’s due. Explain.
Answer:
Justice has been understood as one’s due i.e. what belongs to him and what a person should get and what place he/she occupies in the society and what share he/she should get. But what should be one’s due and what are the essentials of one share as a matter of justice has been viewed differently in different points of time. To some philosophers, human dignity has been of prime importance. Dignity is related to one’s due. Justice requires that we give due and equal considerations to all individuals.

Question 3.
How the principle of equal treatment for equals serve the cause of social justice?
Answer:
In modern society, the principle of equal treatment for equal is considered to be the essential condition for the realization of social justice. However, it is not easy to calculate, how much a person should get or what exactly is one’s due. For this treating equals equally is considered a necessity. It is considered that all individuals share certain characteristics as human beings. Therefore they deserve equal rights and similar treatment and equal dignified behavior at least in similar conditions.

Besides equal rights, the principle of treating equals equally would require that people should not be discriminated against on grounds of caste, color, race, and gender. A person’s due place in society should be judged on the basis of one’s abilities, talent, words, and actions and not on the basis of class, caste, or group one belongs to. For example, if a male or female worker is performing the same work in a similar situation, both should be given equal wages and no discrimination should be made between male and female workers in terms of wages and behavior only then the cause of justice will be served.

Question 4.
What do you mean by the idea of proportionate justice?
Answer:
Apparently, the principle of equal treatment to all seems to be the ideal and necessary condition for justice but there are frequent situations and circumstances in which we find that treating everyone equally would be unjust. We cannot give equal awards to all those who have appeared in an examination in equal conditions. They will be and ought to be awarded on the basis of performances, which will be certainly unequal. Justice in such a case would mean rewarding people in proportion to the scale and quality of their efforts in similar conditions.

Question 5.
What is the concept of special needs? How does it serve the cause of justice?
Answer:
For the cause of justice in the society identifying and recognizing the special needs of the people is an important situation while distributing rewards and duties among the members of the society. Normally people are treated equally for the sake of justice but there are people in the society who need special care and special needs for justice. However, that may appear unequal treatment. Because some people of the society have some disabilities and could not stand with other people, that society cannot be called as a just society.

People with special needs or disabilities could be considered unequal in some particular respect and deserve special help Physical disabilities, age or lack of access to good education or healthcare are some of the factors which are considered grounds for special needs in different societies of the world.

Question 6.
Discuss just distribution as necessary for social justice.
Answer:
Besides other essential requirements for social justice like equal treatment, honest, fairness, and impartiality, just distribution of goods and services, between individuals, groups, and nations is also a very essential and important requirement to achieve social justice in society. If there are serious social, economic inequalities and disparities in the society it will seriously affect social justice. Therefore within a country, social justice would require not only that people be treated equally in terms of laws and policies of the society but also that they enjoy-some basic equality of living conditions and opportunities. Glaring disparities and inequalities have to be removed for the cause of justice.

Question 7.
Discuss the John Rawls theory of justice?
Answer:
John Rawls in his explanation of the theory of justice gave answers to the questions related to the theory of justice rather than the essentials of justice. John Rawls argues that the only way we can arrive at a fair and just rule is if we imagine ourselves in a situation in which we have to make decisions about the best composition of the society, about knowing our position in that society. Rawls says that if we do not know that situation, options would be available to us in the future society and we will be likely to support a decision about the rules and organization of that future society which would be fair for all the members of the society. Rawls describes fairness and rationality as the very-very essential condition of social justice in any society.

Question 8.
Describe the idea of ‘veil of ignorance’ as given by John Rawls in his theory of social justice.
Answer:
In his theory of social justice, John Rawls imagines a situation of uncertainty about the composition of society and different roles to be given to the different people or the class of the people. He is of the view that that future society would be fair to all. In fact, this uncertain and imaginative situation is referred to by John Rawls as ‘Veil of ignorance’.

He says that it will be the situation of complete ignorance about our possible position and status and role. Each person will behave in terms of their own interests as human beings generally do. Since it is a situation of uncertainty, each will accept the future society from the point of view of the worst off. In this situation, justice will be constituted to see that important resources like education, health, shelter are available to all irrespective of their status in the society. The merit of the veil of ignorance is that it expects people to be just, fair and rational.

Question 9.
Discuss social justice as the objective of the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
Indian society is full of inequalities, disparities, imbalances, and injustice because it has a feudal and colonial past with an exploitative society and economy. The Constitution is proposed to be the instrument of socio-economic change i.e. socio-economic transformation of the society. In this scheme, social justice is the most important cherished value and objective of the Indian Constitution which is mentioned in the preamble of the Indian Constitution. In three areas i.e. social, economic, and political, social justice is given the place of prominence.

To achieve social justice number of features have been added to the Indian Constitution. Indian economy is established on the socialistic pattern for equal distribution of all the resources and fulfillment of minimum common needs of the people and to a built egalitarian society. Special needs of weaker and disadvantaged classes are fulfilled. Reservation is made for the traditionally exploited class like SCs and STs. in employment and educational institution. Social evils like untouchability have been abolished.

Question 10.
What is an egalitarian perspective? How it can be achieved?
Answer:
Egalitarianism is an important and useful perspective to achieve social justice. Egalitarianism means that all the minimum common needs must be accessible to all to lead a decent life. All people should be given an environment in which people could lead a dignified life. There should not be unjustified disparities in different sections of society. Efforts are being made at different levels to determine what are the minima and what are the maxima for an egalitarian society and to achieve social justice.

Question 11.
How the socialism seeks social justice?
Answer:
Socialism was a reaction against capitalism which was an exploitative system based on inequalities and injustices. In capitalism, there was the concentration of the economic resources in few hands which generated disparities and class society. Socialism is a system that seeks to give the economic resources in the collective ownership of the society. Socialist thinkers seek to achieve justice with the principle “from each according to his ability and to each according to his need”. Socialism is based on cooperation and harmonious relations of the different classes of the society. It seeks to fulfill the basic needs of the people and providing a dignified life to all. It seeks to remove the inhuman competition. It wants to promote human values as an essential condition of social justice.

Question 12.
Describe the features of a free-market economy.
Answer:
The market economy is based on the principle that individuals should be free to own property and to express their expertise in areas of their likings and preference without any kind of interference and intervention of any kind. They should be free to compete with each other to gain the greatest amount of benefit. Supporters of a free-market economy believe that if markets are left free of state interference, then the market transactions would ensure overall a just distribution of benefits and duties in society. The meritorious and hard-working people will be rewarded accordingly while the weak, lazy, and incompetent would get a lesser reward. In today’s liberal market economy, some kind of intervention of the state is accepted, for example, the state can decide the common minimum needs for social justice and the dignified life of the common man.

Question 13.
How the free market economy is helpful in promoting social justice?
Answer:
At one time, the market economy was considered as a mechanism of social justice with the development of people’s talent and enterprising spirit without any kind of interference and intervention. It ensures a basic minimum standard of living for all people so that they are able to compete on equal terms. Private agencies should be encouraged to provide such services while state policies should try to empower people to buy those services. Besides this, the state should try only to maintain a framework of laws and regulations to ensure that competition between individuals remains free of coercion and other hindrances. Supporters of this free market system maintain that the free market is the basis of a fair and just society. The idea of justice in a free market is that it is concerned with the development of talents and skills of an individual irrespective of his caste, religion, and gender.

Question 14.
Discuss the merits of a free-market economy.
Answer:
One of the most important merits of the free market is that it promotes the merit and skill of man irrespective of caste, color, and gender and it gives the people more choice although the free market system gives us more choices as consumers.

The second important merit of the free market is that the quality of services is superior in comparison to government institution’s services.

Another important argument in favor of the free-market is the quality of goods which is good in quality and quantity which removes the situations of deficiency and scarcity.

Question 15.
Give the arguments in favor of State intervention for the promotion of social justice.
Answer:
Although there is a number of arguments in favor of a free-market economy show certain negative tendencies also which are violative of the basics of social justice.

Free Market leads to competition and concentration of powers in few hands only which generates the classes-of haves and haves not which creates the situation of injustice.

To check this inhuman competition and concentration of resources in few hands only, the state intervention is considered useful and desirable to create balances for social justice. State intervention will ensure that basic facilities are made available to all the members of society. The state acts as an arbiter in the matter of management of the resources and their fair distribution for the promotion of social justice.

Question 16.
How a democratic framework is more favorable for social justice?
Answer:
The democratic framework of society’ and policy is considered more conducive for the availability of social justice because it tends to respect human dignity and seeks to improve the quality of life by ensuring fair and equitable distribution of minimum basic needs for the people.

In a democratic society, disagreements about issues of distribution and justice are inevitable and even healthy but with healthy discussion and debates, the rational and just decision emerges which ensures the just and rational relationship among the people which is an essential condition for social justice. In autocratic and dictatorial society, social justice becomes the first casualty.

Social Justice Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1.
What is social justice? How does the Indian Constitution seek to achieve social justice?
Answer:
Social justice has been considered as the most important and necessary condition for human life, justice has other aspects also like economic, political, and religion. The very essence of justice has been the just system and just relationship and just place of every man in the society. Just means that everyone should occupy one’s position.

Another important feature of justice has been the equality of treatment so that everyone could lead a dignified life.

The third important requirement of social justice is the availability of minimum needs to everyone and also the fair distribution of resources.

John Rawls wants to create a just and fair and rational society for the promotion of social justice where benefits and rewards could be distributed on a merit basis.

Indian Constitution is considered as the embodiment of social justice because the objective of the Constitution laid down in the preamble indicates that the entire Constitution seeks the total transformation of Indian society for the promotion of social justice. The dignity of man is placed on the top. The mechanism has been provided for the transformation of society and the economy. Polity has been made responsible, responsive, and participatory. The common man is given due place in the decision-making process at different levels. Social evils like untouchability have been abolished. Weaker sections and women have been given a place of preference in the matter of development and welfare. All these measures and features are meant for social justice.

Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 3 Equality. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Important Extra Questions Equality

Equality Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type

Question 1.
What is equality?
Answer:
Equality is a very wide concept which seeks a situation of equal treatment and equal reward. In feet, it is a levelling process. Equality seeks to build such an environment where all enjoy equal opportunities and equal access to basic essentials of life. It also seeks to remove the disparities at a different level on different grounds. It is based on the thesis that all are alike in capabilities and capacities, hence all must be treated alike in the matter of opportunities and rewards. Its emphasis is on just and equal socio. economic environment.

Question 2.
What do you mean by absolute equality?
Answer:
The supporter of absolute equality has a negative view of equality which means ‘absence of privileges’ i.e. no person or class or caste should hold a special position on any ground like caste, colour, region, religion or economic status. They demand a society where all are equal and there is no disparity of any kind in any degree. Absolute equality seems to be an impossibility in a collective society because there is natural inequality of colour and sex and also inequality of environment which produces men and women of unequal strength, capabilities and capacities.

Question 3.
What are the essentials of the positive aspect of equality?
Answer:
The positive aspect of equality means equality of an environment where all the people could get equal access and opportunities for their abound development. Essentials of the positive aspect of equality are as under:

1. Equal opportunities.
2. Access to minimum needs.
3. Equal treatment with all.
4. Fulfilment of basic needs.
5. Availability of resources.

Question 4.
What is equality of opportunities?
Answer:
Equality of opportunities implies that all the people are entitled. to get rights and opportunities to develop their talent, skill and potentialities and to achieve their desired goal in different areas of life. People may differ in their skill and talent, but they should get equal opportunities to develop them and should not be denied on the ground of caste, colour, sex and status. If there is inequality due to difference in talent or skill or capacities,- that should not be treated as inequality. Inequality lies, in the denial of access to such basic goods which are necessary for life, and that makes unequal and unjust society.

Question 5.
What do you mean by natural inequality?
Answer:
Natural inequality is the most important aspect of inequality. It is “that inequality which is natural i.e. inequality of colour, height and sex.

Natural inequalities are considered to be the result of the different ‘ characteristics and abilities with which people are born. In fact, natural inequalities have to be accepted as equality because there is no creation of a man-made environment and they cannot be altered or modified. If some people are black and others are white, it is natural inequality, similarly if one is male and other is female, it is natural inequality. These are transmitted from one generation to another and are based on natural conditions.

Question 6.
What do you mean by social inequality?
Answer:
Social inequalities are widely prevailing in society and these are the matter of concern. These social inequalities are the creation, of social taboos and social environment. Society has different perceptions of different situations. People look at the people of different caste, colour, profession and strata differently and so are they awarded which gives birth to the unequal situation. Social inequalities are man-made which are unjust and need reform.

Question 7.
What is political inequality?
Answer:
Political inequalities marred history. In all the societies ‘ the politics and administration have been the domain of few and rest have been denied on the different ground like caste, colour, status and sex.

Even in liberal democratic countries like Britain and the United States of America, the people were denied political equality on the basis of sex and colour. Before the adoption of adult franchise, people were given political rights on the basis of education, wealth and status. Therefore there has been a gross violation of political equality in different parts of the world. Even today political equality is a mirage for many people. Political equality seeks to achieve the right to vote, right of expression, movement and association. These rights are necessary for the development of the citizens and to participate in the affairs of the state.

Question 8.
What is social equality?
Answer:
Social equality means equal treatment, equal opportunities to all the persons in social functions and seeks to remove the inequalities ‘ on the basis of caste, colour, religion, region and sex. For example, women have been denied social equality and have been discriminated against in social functions at home and outside. Similarly, black people in Africa and people of scheduled castes have been discriminated on the basis of caste and colour. This has been the social inequality and social equality demands the ending of such practices.

Question 9.
What do you mean by economic equality?
Answer:
Economic equality does not mean that all should have equal wages and income because the difference in wages and income is related to talent and skill. Economic equality means equality in economic conditions without any discrimination on the basis of caste, colour and sex. Economic equality means that there should be equality of wages among men and women and in similar working conditions.

Question 10.
How social equality is ensured in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
There have been glaring social inequalities in Indian society since ages. After independence, Constitution makers ensured social equality by giving Fundamental Right of equality which prohibits discrimination on any social ground at a public place (Art. 15). Constitution makers gave equality before the law (under Art. 14) and discrimination is prohibited before the law on any social ground. The age-old practice of untouchability is also removed under Art. 17. In his way through this right social equality is ensured.

Question 11.
What do you mean by Feminism?
Answer:
Feminism is a movement either it is thinking or philosophy which indicates the change of understanding about the capabilities and capacities of women and about her place in the society. The feminist movement started in post Second World War in a different part of the world. Therefore it is worldwide awakening about the position of women. Feminist movement not only recognises the hidden power of women but also is an effort to utilize it and channelise it in different areas. It is a movement to make women and the society aware of the new role of women in national and international life. It is an effort to give the women due role in the decision-making process.

Question 12.
What is the reason for economic inequality according to Marx?
Answer:
According to Marx the main reason for economic inequality is the ownership of property which is unequal. Therefore there are economic inequalities in society. In his theory which he gave in his famous book ‘Das Capital’, he explained the surplus-value is the root cause of generating inequalities in the society. It is the surplus-value which makes the capitalist richer and poorer to the labourer and thus class formation takes place which later on becomes exploitative class and exploited class.

Question 13.
How formal equality can be achieved?
Answer:
To achieve formal equality in society, the formal inequalities have to be removed. The formal inequality is like a rigid system based on wrong notions and which has got legitimacy over the period ‘ of time. Therefore to attain formal equality such wrong notions about some people and privileged positions for some other people should be removed. The law and agencies of the Government should not protect the strong man and vent intents in which favour the old system is v. deliberately built-up. In Indian Constitution discrimination in socio¬economic ground is prohibited and untouchability is removed.

Question 15.
What is socialism?
Answer:
Socialism is a socio-economic system which wants or seeks to establish an equalitarian society by giving every person his or her due place in the society. It had become very popular after the Second World War in Eastern Europe and later in Asian and some African country. It seeks to achieve the value of equality in a socio-economic environment. Its cardinal principle is that “From each to his ability and to each according to his needs”. It means equal opportunities to all on the basis ‘of his or her capabilities and talent.

Question 16.
What is affirmative action?
Answer:
Affirmative actions are those decisions, policies and programmes of the government through which effort is being made to make the weaker sections people stronger so that they could complete ‘ with the people of higher castes. What is especially being done for those who have been exploited in the history and other weaker sections of the society? For example reservation for the people of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in a matter of employment and various welfare measures for the poor people are the example of affirmative actions; whose purpose is to build equalitarian society.

Equality Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1.
Explain the concept of equality?
Answer:
Equality has been the issue of concern and discussion and debate at the academic level as well as political level through the ages since long back. In the hands of classical thinkers, the concept of inequality was glorified. Plato called it a preferential value, Bulk said that equality is impossible. Aristotle justified inequality and called it as natural; He justified inequality and so the slavery on the basis of expediency. He said people have different capacities and capabilities, skills and talents therefore they are to get the awards and place in the society accordingly. He said that slavery has its own utility for the master as well as the slave.

In the middle ages also equality did not get the rational and human base of discussion and debate. However twentieth-century thinkers tried to give practical meaning to the idea of equality. In the words of Laski, the concept of equality got detailed treatment. He dealt with the subject of equality in his famous book ‘Grammer of Politics’. He added essential socio-economic ingredients of equality ‘ keeping in view the egalitarian perspective.

Question 2.
Why Equality is necessary for the condition of life?
Answer:
For a long time, in history inequality has been accepted and also been glorified on a number of undesirable bases like caste, colour and sex. With the advancement of age and scientific and educational /.development the urge and need for substantive equality have been, accepted and now has emerged as a powerful political ideal that is guiding the human society. The concept of equality emphasis the idea that all human beings have an equal worth regardless of their colour, gender, race and nationality. It says that all human beings are equal, hence deserve equal treatment and respect for human development.

Question 3.
How the concept of equality has influenced the political movements in the world?
Answer:
Whenever there has been a violation of equality and people have been exploited on the justification of unequal status and opportunities, there have been organised movements in different parts of the world. With the advent of democratic systems of the government, the equality of human beings has been used as a rallying slogan in the struggles against the oppressive states and social, economic and religious institutions which supports and glorify inequalities of rank, status and sex and wealth. In the eighteenth century, the French Revolution was a historic event in which equality was the main gospel.

Equality, fraternity and liberty was the main slogan of the movement. It was a movement against the landed feudal aristocracy and monarchy. During the twentieth century, equality became the popular demand is the anti-colonial movements in Asia, Africa and Latin American countries of the world. In the same urge abolition of racialism was demanded mid untouchability with Indian Dalits was abolished. In spite of these movements for, equality, inequality is most visible around us throughout the world. But it can be said that its demand has become more and more popular.

Question 4.
Give some factual position about global inequalities.
Answer:
Here are some sterling facts showing global inequalities:

1. 50 richest individuals of the world have combined income greater than that of poorest 40 crore people of the world.
2. 40% poorest of the world’s population received only 5% of global ‘ income.
3. North America and Western Europe constitute 25% of the world population but owns 86% of the world’s industry and consumes 80% of the \ world’s energy.
4. On a per-capita basis, a resident of the advanced countries consumes at least three times as much water, ten times as much energy.

Question 5.
On the basis of data show rural-urban inequalities in India.
Answer:
After independence, India got a semi-feudal agrarian-based economy whose 80% of people are dependent on agriculture. After the arrival of green resolution agriculture production increased and market economy developed which fastened the process of urbanisation. With the use of science and technology the number of towns and cities increased which resulted in the gap of quality of life in rural and urban areas which is evident from the following facts:

Above facts show the rural inequality.

Question 6.
Do you think that equality means always treating all in an identical way?
Answer:
In present-day society, the meaning of equality is not taken as it used to be in the hands of classical thinkers who used to justify inequality on a number of grounds. Today negative aspect of equality is also neither desired nor achievable. Therefore equality does not mean perfect equality with always identical treatment with everybody. No society can treat all its members in exactly the same way under all conditions. The smooth functioning of the society requires from each according to his ability and to each according to his needs. It means people should be placed in the compartment of the society where they deserve as per their abilities, If that make difference then it is not undesirable inequality. This inequality can be accepted.

Question 7.
What is the difference between natural inequalities and social inequalities?
Answer:
The main difference between the natural and social inequalities is that natural inequalities are due to natural reasons like that of colour, sex, capabilities and capacities while social inequalities are those which are generated by the man and society itself. The natural inequalities can not be altered while the social inequalities are the product of the socio-economic environment. Hence the social inequalities vary as per the socio-economic environment Social inequalities are the direct result of unequal treatment of the people on the basis of race, colour, gender and caste and they are given place and worth in the society.

The understanding of the difference between natural inequalities and social inequalities help us to distinguish between acceptable and unfair inequalities in society. In the history of humankind, many unequal conditions have been treated as equal conditions making them like natural conditions. For example, for a long time, it is believed that women are inferior to men.

Question 8.
Discuss social inequality as prevailing in India.
Answer:
Indian society has been in the grip of severe social inequalities. People were discriminated against the caste, colour, region and religion. People of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes enjoyed the lowest status in the society like apartheid in South Africa, untouchability plagued Indian society. Harijans were considered as out-castes, therefore were declared as untouchable.

Women were denied basic rights in the society, they were considered inferior to man hence were placed below the man. Social inequality in Indian society is the result of many social customs which prevailed in different parts of the country. Women and people of scheduled castes were prohibited from taking parts in important functions. They were denied educational rights also.

Question 9.
Explain Economic Equality?
Answer:
Economic equality is much sought after value in the environment of widespread economic inequalities which is the consequence of social and political inequalities of the society. Economic inequalities prevail in the society because of significant differences in wealth, property or income between individuals and classes. Higher is the difference between the richest and poorest, greater will be the degree of inequalities. The existence of a large number of people below the marked by want of basic amenities and needs of life on the one hand and the existence of plenty of commodities of consumption op the other hand.

Most of the democracies with equalitarian perspective try to provide equal opportunities and access to the people on the resources of consumption and equal opportunities for utilisation of talent and determination and to improve their conditions. It is also a fact that absolute equality of wealth and income never existed. It has to be accepted in just proportions. With the rational distribution of resources and equal opportunities, there are the possibilities of improving everyone’s position in the system.

Question 10.
Show the relationship between education inequality and socio-economic status in urban India.
Answer:
The following table shows the above situation:

Source: NSSO 55th Round Survey, 1999-2000.

Question 11.
Discuss the meaning and need for Feminism.
Answer:
Feminism is a very important and popular political doctrine of the 20th century which seeks to spread the message of women empowerment. It teaches that men and women are equal in capacities and capabilities of skill and talent. Therefore women should be treated alike and should be given her due role in the society and decision-making process at different levels. Feminists believe that many of the inequalities which we see are men and women are neither natural nor necessary. These can be removed, if we treat both men and women equal and free lives. Feminism is a powerful philosophy, which advocates opportunities for women in all walks of life for that they need to be given basic education and more women employment opportunities.

It seeks to end the dominance of patriarchal authority in the families and society. The feminists try to question this idea of classical theory. They argue that the biological difference between men and women determines the different roles to men and women in society. The feminist movement has played a very positive role in giving the women their due place in the society and enabled them to prove their worth in different areas of national life.

Question 12.
What is a Marxist view of Equality?
Answer:
Marx has been the most important thinker of nineteenth-century who diagnosed the development of inequality and the environment in which inequality takes birth. He was champion of the equalitarian society and he was very much concerned about the exploitation of labour class in the hands of the capitalist class in the capitalist system. In his famous book ‘ Das Capital’, Marx explained that theory of surplus value (share of the labourer which is being kept by the capitalist with him) is the main reason of gap of status between the labour and capitalist. This gap generates inequality in all the fields i.e. social, cultural and political. Economic inequality leads to inequality in all other fields.

Question 13.
What is a Marxist view of establishing equality?
Answer:
Marx was of the firm view that the root cause of man mode inequality in the concentration of private property into few hands which generate not only economic inequality but it breeds inequality in all fields like education, social status, political influence and political authority. It creates inequality of ranks and privilege in different sections of the society. Marx regarded the state as the agent of the capitalist class and supports the capitalist class perpetuate the inequality.

Therefore to remove the – inequality and to establish equalitarian society he suggests to remove the two-class structure of the society and wants to build a classless, stateless and casteless society. This is the state of communism. In his way Marx for removing the inequality and to establish the equality he suggests to go beyond the idea of equal opportunities to all but he thinks necessary the collective ownership of all the class. He says that for this there should be debate and discussion.

Question 14.
Explain the Socialist view of Equality.
Answer:
Socialism is a philosophy of socio-economic relations which became very popular in the early twentieth century. It also opposes the inequalities prevailed in the capitalistic society which was marked by two class exploitative system. Socialism became popular not only in developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin American countries but also in European countries. In fact, socialistic philosophy for the equalitarian society came into existence as a derivative of communist philosophy. Socialist thinkers of India like Ram Manohar Lohiya and Jai Prakash Narayan identified five kinds of inequalities that need to be corrected immediately,

These are –

1. Gender inequality
2. Colour inequality;
3. Caste-based inequality, and colonialism based inequalities.

Socialist need from each according to his ability and to each according to his need.

Equality Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1.
Explain Affirmative Action with reference to achieving an equalitarian society in the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
History is the record of the fact that most of the societies have been in the grip of inequalities. With the advent of democracy and increasing awareness due to various theories and change in the environment, there is a continuous demand and effort to remove the inequalities in society.

Indian society also has been caste and class-ridden society in which scheduled caste, scheduled tribe people and also the women had to face untold miseries due to unequal set up of the society. When India got independence, is committed to removing these age-old inequalities faced by some sections of the society. This commitment is reflected and mentioned in the Indian Constitution.

To infuse the confidence in these sections of the society, Fundamental Rights were added in the Constitution to achieve the value of equality for all Fundamental Right of equality is described from Article 14 to Art. 18 which gives –

1. Right of equality before the law (Art. 14)
2. Right of equality at a public place (Art. 15)
3. Right of equality in the matter of employment (Art. 16)
4. Abolition of untouchability (Art. 17)
5.  Abolition of special classes (Art. 18)

To remove the exploitation of women and children right against exploitation is given.

Similarly, a chapter of the Directive Principle is added from Art. 36 to Art. 51 for improving the living standard of weaker sections of the society so that equalitarian society is set up.

Affirmative action is a more serious effort to achieve the value of equality. It is based on the idea that it is not sufficient to establish formal equality by simple law alone. Therefore some welfare measures and policy decision are necessary to improve a lot of poor people. Thus purpose is to correct the unequal order.

Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 2 Freedom. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 2 Important Extra Questions Freedom

Freedom Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type

Question 1.
What do you mean by the concept of ‘Freedom’?
Answer:
’Freedom’ seeks to free man from external control or coercion and to enable man to take independent decisions and to act is his or her own way. Freedom in a political sense is free from subjugation. In an economic sense, freedom means to express and work in the desired area to earn a livelihood, in ethical sense freedom means to make one free from the control of others. It is also the ability of people to freely express themselves and to develop their potential.

Question 2.
What is the need for Freedom?
Answer:
Freedom of every type i.e. social, economic, ethical and political and religious is very much necessary for the all-round development of the people. It is through freedom, man expresses his or her creativity and potentiality. For moral and psychological development also, the situation of freedom in very much essential. Freedom empowers man and provides him with the ability to freely express himself and develop his potential. Without freedom no real development and welfare of the man are possible.

Question 3.
What is absolute freedom? Is it possible?
Answer:
Absolute freedom means right to do anything which a person likes to do without any kind of hindrance from any side. Unbridled behaviour is said to be the absolute freedom which is certainly not possible in a civil society where people live collective life with actual adjustment and understandings. Absolute freedom was possible only in a natural state.

Question 4.
Why the constraints are necessary for freedom?
Answer:
Constraints mean certain binding directions to (Jo this and not to do that. Some people think that such directions-and constraints destroy freedom but fact is different. In fact, the constraints and restrictions in the form of directions and regulations promote, safeguard and strengthen the conditions which make freedom. But the constraints should be reasonable i.e. based on good intentions, welfare, support and belief. That means the directions should be from a legitimate authority.

Question 5.
What is the negative aspect of liberty?
Answer:
A negative aspect of liberty contemplates such a situation where man is free to do what he or she likes to do without any hindrance. In-fact negative aspect of liberty means ‘absence of restraints’ which seeks that there should not be any control on the actions and behaviour of man from any side. Negative liberty seekers want uncontrolled behaviour and actions only in such a situation they find human development.

Question 6.
What is a positive aspect of liberty?
Answer:
The positive aspect of liberty seeks to build an environment (socio, economic and political) in which around development of man could be possible without any kind of hindrance from any side. Positive liberty allows reasonable restriction to strengthen and promote freedom and liberty. Positive liberty seeks to ensure the availability of the minimum needs of people and good behaviour for the moral and psychological development of human beings.

Question 7.
What do you mean by ‘reasonable restrictions’?
Answer:
In a civil society when the reasonable restrictions are imposed on the behaviour of the citizens the purpose remains positive i.e. the protection and promotion of the conditions of freedom of the citizens. Reasonable restrictions mean that restrictions should be just and for the benefits of the citizens. The reasonable restriction should be based a belief and not arbitrary. If restrictions are imposed, they should be reasonable and necessary and not arbitrary. For example, in India, the right of expression is subjected to reasonable restrictions.

Question 8.
What is political liberty?
Answer:
Political liberty means people should have the right to expression. They should have the right to having views. They should have the right to vote and right to be elected. They should have the right of forming associations. Political liberty also means that all people should have equal say in the matter of taking decision irrespective of their social and economic status.

Question 9.
What is freedom of expression?
Answer:
Freedom of expression is a fundamental value which people and society should listen and accommodate with the views of each person and should protect it from people who want to check it. Freedom of expression means that one should have the right to express himself the way he likes.

Question 10.
How can freedom of expression be justified?
Answer:
Freedom of expression is very necessary for human development. J.S. Mill gave passionate support to the right of expression including the right to have thought and freedom of discussions. J.S. Mill says that no idea is false. Every idea has some element of truth, therefore everyone should have ideas and right to express them. Freedom of expression not only promotes the development of man but also of the entire society.

Question 11.
What are the safeguards of liberty?
Answer:
Followings are some of the important situations which are considered as safeguards of liberty:

1. Written Constitution.
2. Democratic Government.
3. Decentralisation of powers.
4. Political awakening.
5. Independent and powerful judiciary.
6. Independent press.
7. Literacy.
8. Economic equality.
9. Strong opposition.

Question 12.
What is ‘Swaraj’?
Answer:
‘Swaraj’ is an identical concept of freedom. Swaraj is also an essential condition for human development. Swaraj stands for self-rule and self-discipline. Swaraj has more political touch as it was a popular slogan in the wake of a national movement for independence. It was political demand but it has social and ethical value also.

Question 13.
What is Liberalism?
Answer:
Liberalism stands for openness, rational and scientific thinking and discussion. Liberalism also means freedom of expression and split of tolerance for collective life. Liberalism opposes conservatism and dogmatism. Modern liberalism stands for all-round development of the individual. In an economic sense, liberalism stands for the free market and minimum role of the state in the affairs of man.

Question 14.
What is the Harm Principle?
Answer:
Explaining two types of actions that are self regarding actions and other-regarding actions J.S. Mill says that state or such other agency has no right to interfere in the affairs of man as long as man’s actions are concerned with him only and do not harm or affect others but when man’s actions and decisions affect others or harm others then the actions and behaviour of man has to be controlled by an external agency. Therefore J.S. Mill considered harm factor as the sole criteria for the interference, in the affairs of man. This is called in political theory as the Harm Principle.

Question 15.
Name the three personalities, countries which fought for their national freedom.
Answer:

1. Nelson Mandela of South Africa who fought against racialism of South African White Government.
2. Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar who fought for freedom against – Military Government of her country.
3. Taslima Nasreen of Bangladesh who fought for freedom against Muslim Fundamentalism.

Freedom Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1.
Give the detailed meaning of the concept of Freedom.
Answer:
Freedom is a condition of life for man or society or a nation which is passionately sought by the people and are willing to sacrifice and die. History is the record of the struggle for freedom by man and the society or the nation. There has been exploitation of weak man by powerful man, of a weak nation by powerful nation. Freedom represents ‘ the desire of man to live his life in his own way and to have the opportunity to express themselves freely through their choices and activities. Not only man but societies and nations aspire to be independent and wish to x protect their culture and future. Nelson Mandela of South Africa fought against racialism practised by the White South African Government. Gandhiji called British rule as Satani rule and he fought against it for Swarajya with the weapons of Satyagrah and Non-violence.

Question 2.
What is the importance of Freedom for individuals and societies?
Answer:
Freedom is one of the most essential conditions for human development without freedom man is without existence. Freedom to express his views’ and freedom to have a choice of views and actions make Man strong and confident. Freedom is a dynamic concept which helps in the development of all the facilities of the human mind which improves the quality of life. Freedom makes man responsible and Parhapative in the affairs of the state and society.

Question 3.
Explain the negative and positive aspect of Freedom.
Answer:
Negative freedom is said to exist where there is no external control and constraints on individual life. In this view, a person is considered to be enjoying freedom only if he or she is not subject to any external controls or coercion and is in position to make independent decisions and act in an autonomous way i.e. independently. Therefore negative freedom means an absence of constraints.

Freedom has a positive aspect also which is possible in the presence of some constraints and restrictions but these constraints and restrictions should be reasonable and just. The positive aspect of freedom seeks to achieve a socio-economic and political environment in which around development is possible without any unreasonable hindrances.

Question 4.
What do you mean self-regarding and other-regarding actions?
Answer:
J.S. Mill has divided the actions of man into two groups which are as under:

1. Self-regarding actions.
2. Other regarding actions.

1. Self-regarding actions: Self-regard ing actions are those actions of man which are concerned with that man only and do not interfere in other matters.

2. Other regarding actions: Other regarding actions of man are those actions which interfere in other matters.

Question 5.
What do you mean by ‘ Apartheid’? Who fought against it?
Answer:
‘Apartheid’ means racial discrimination. It is referred in the case of South Africa where it was practised by discriminating against black local Africans. They were segregated like untouchables and were denied basic amenities and social, economic and political rights. Not only this, the black people of South Africa were subjected to brutal humiliations, hardships and police atrocities.

Nelson Mandela and his colleagues waged a war against apartheid based policies of the Government. They also suffered a lot. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years of his youth period in jail in which he wrote his famous book ‘Long Walk to Freedom’. Ultimately he got success in dislodging the white oppressive government.

Question 6.
What do you mean by national freedom?
Answer:
National freedom is as important and necessary as individual freedom. As individual development is possible with the availability of freedom, similarly no national development is possible without national freedom. It is proved in history. In fact, individual development and national development go together and are complementary to each other.

National freedom is taken in an emotional and spiritual sense. People sacrifice their lives for the sake of national freedom. History is a record of such struggles which the Nationalists fought for the sake of national. freedom and national honour.

Question 7.
Define Gandhinian Concept of Swaraj.
Answer:
Swaraj is also a concept which is one “way or the other is related to the concept of freedom. Swaraj means self-rule or you can say right to self-rule as was conceived by Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

Gandhiji understood the concept of Swaraj in a broader sense. He explained swaraj as rule or control over self. Therefore it was related with the self-discipline by Gandhiji. In his famous book ‘HincTSwaraj’ he says that ‘It is Swaraj when we learn to rule ourselves. Swaraj is not just freedom but liberation in redeeming one’s self-respect, self-responsibility and capacities for self-realisation from institutions of dehumanisation.’ Therefore he linked Swaraj with self-discipline, responsibility and self-realisation. The essence of Swaraj is the understanding of ‘ Self’ and its relation to communities and society.

Question 8.
Is the total absence of constraints or restrictions possible for Freedom?
Answer:
The negative aspect of freedom and liberty demands total absence of restrictions and constraints for the realisation of the true meaning of freedom. But it is not possible in a collective society where people are living in interdependence. The total absence of restrictions is possible only in the natural state where people used to live in isolation. In collective society to ensure each other’s freedom, some reasonable restrictions in the form of adjustments and regulation are a must. These restrictions ensure and protect freedom.

Question 9.
What do you mean by constraints? What are their sources?
Answer:
Constraints are the restrictions, rules, regulations, dictates and modes of behaviour which are given to the people of the society or the nation to control their behaviour so that they do not interfere in other’s freedom. Restrictions on the freedom of individuals may come from different sources. Such restrictions are imposed by force by the legitimate authorities like governmental organisations, social organisations or any such legitimate authority. There have been different sources of constraints at different point of time. Form of constraint represented by different kinds of authorities. In the colonial period, colonial powers and rulers issued constraints over the subjects. In a democratic environment, the kinds of constraints are different. Democratic government is considered to be an important means of protecting the freedom of people.

Question 10.
What is the need for constraints?
Answer:
We can live in a world where there is absolute freedom i.e. freedom without constraints. In a collective society, some constraints or restrictions become a must to ensure the enjoyment of freedom to all individuals. Unbridled freedom will lead to freedom for none because it would lead to chaos. In a group life, there may be differences of opinion or they may have different ambitions. They may compete to control scare resources. In such a society, to control the behaviour of the individuals the issuance of constraints and reasonable restrictions are necessary.

Question 11.
Explain the main elements or essentials of reasonable restrictions.
Answer:
When we say that absolute freedom is not possible in a collective society where people live in interdependence. It means that in such situations some constraints and restrictions are necessary to control the behaviour of the people which is based on different attitudes, conflicting interests and competitive urge to acquire the limited resources. But at the same time, it is to be seen these restrictions and constraints are not irrational and arbitrary. They must be backed by legitimate authorities. The negative and illegitimate restrictions will destroy the freedom itself. The legitimate restrictions are those whose intention is positive and issued by right source and people have faith and accept those restrictions.

Question 12.
Define liberalism.
Answer:
Liberalism is an idea or approach. It is a way of looking at things. As a political ideology, liberalism has been identified with tolerance as a value. Its emphasis is on individual development. It gives priority and preference to the individual in comparison to society. It allows the individual to express his opinion freely. In an economic sense, it favoured a free market and limited role to the state in the affairs of man. It seeks to establish a police state with only police functions. However, the modem liberal accepts the role of the state for the welfare of man.

Question 13.
Explain reasonable restriction with reference to Indian Constitution.
Answer:
It is accepted the fact that for the realisation of true freedom in a society, issuance of restrictions and constraints is a must. These restrictions should be reasonable i.e. they should have three merits:-

1. They should be issued by legitimate authorities.
2. They should have good and positive intentions.
3. The individual should show their faith in such authorities.

Indian Constitution has provided Fundamental Right in ‘Freedom of Expression as an important right but it is not absolute and is subjected to reasonable restrictions which are given in the Constitution. A person will get the freedom of expression subjected to morality, law and order, communal harmony and indecency. Therefore, individual should keep these restrictions in mind while enjoying freedom.

Question 14.
Explain the significance of the positive aspect of liberty.
Answer:
The negative aspect of liberty also intends the absence of restraints which means that there should not be any kind of binding, restrictions on the individual. Positive aspect allows some reasonable coercions and restrictions if there is proper socio, economic and political environment for the advancement of the personality development of the individuals. Significance of the positive aspect of liberty lies in the fact that it imposes reasonable restrictions and coercion on the behaviour and actions of the people and at the same time it ensures the abound development of the people.

Question 15.
Explain the meaning and significance of freedom of expression.
Answer:
Right of expression means freedom to express one’s views and ideas the way he or she likes. It may be through writing, photography, painting, speaking or through any artistic creation. Most of the democratic thinkers have supported the freedom of expression without any unreasonable and unjustified restrictions because they considered it very essential for the all-round development of the man. It is freedom. of expression which enables a man to have views and to convey to the society for its application. Many people have suffered to have their views and for their method of expression like Taslima Nasreen of Bangladesh, Aug Suki of Myanmar and Deepa Mehta of India who was denied their freedom of expression.

Question 16.
Explain the basis of J. S. Mill on which he has justified the freedom of expression.
Answer:
J.s. Mill a great British political thinker of the 19th century was an ardent supporter of freedom of expression as an essence of democracy. He justified the freedom of expression on the following grounds:

1. He said that no idea is completely false, therefore every idea should find its expression.
2. Truth does not emerge by itself, it emerges through a conflict of opposing view.
3. The conflict of ideas is valuable.
4. What we consider as true, is not necessarily be true.

Freedom Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1.
Trace the development of the meaning of the concept of Freedom. How it has affected society?
Answer:
The history of mankind is full of domination of one man by another man of one society by another society and of one nation by another nation. However, history also records the struggle of man against such domination and for the attainment of freedom. The notion of freedom has been different at different point of historical times. Different socio-economic considerations have shaped the meaning of freedom. Sometimes it has been considered in its negative aspect and at other times a positive aspect of freedom developed in the hands of liberal political thinkers who kept the emphasis on the making of a conducive environment for the proper advancement and development of human personality. In today global, democratic environment positive aspect of freedom prevails which allows some reasonable restrictions and coercion also.

There is no place for the negative aspect of freedom in today’s world of collective life and interdependence. The prevailing concept of freedom i.e. positive aspect of freedom has made the development of individual possible and also the development of society. The broad meaning of freedom has made people responsible accountable and disciplined which has strengthened the society internally and externally. It has also developed nationalism. Thus the broad meaning of freedom has strengthened society.

Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 1 Political Theory: An Introduction. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 1 Important Extra Questions Political Theory: An Introduction

Political Theory: An Introduction Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type

Question 1.
What is a theory?
Answer:
The theory is a judgement which explains the whole thing. It consists of observation, analysis and judgement. The word theory is derived from the word (Thoria) which is a Greek word and means to beholden which means to know or to understand a thing. In other words, we can say that theory is a tested hypothesis.

Political theory is used for political science and political philosophy. The theory is a generalised statement based on study, experimentation and analysis.

Question 2.
Explain the meaning of Political Theory.
Answer:
Political theory is a generalised statement, it is a generalisation, it is a judgement about political leadership, political process, political event and political system, which is based on the study, reason and analysis, and which has utility for the society and which has got support and acceptance from the society.

According to David Held, political theories are complex networks of concepts and generalisations about political life involving idea, assumptions and statements about the nature, purposes and key features of government, state and society and about political capabilities of a human being. It is also defined as an attempt to explain the attitudes and actions arising from ordinary political life.

Question 3.
What is politics?
Answer:
Politics is rooted in human nature. It appears to be natural. It is the art of management and control of human behaviour. Politics is the other form of diplomacy. Politics is a method of enforcing one’s authority over others and to command obedience from others. Politics is also the mechanism of getting power.

Question 4.
Mention two important functions of Political Theory.
Answer:
The theory is sort of tested direction on which a society or a nation has to march. The theory is needed for every subject which is evolved and framed by the students and researchers of that subject. It performs a leading role in the advancement and development of that subject. Since everything or aspect of society comes in the arena of politics, political theory performs a decisive role for the subject and also for the. society. We can understand it in the following areas:-

1. Political theory formulates concepts and generalisation.
2. Political theory gives a definite direction to society by removing the prevailing confusion and uncertainties.
3. The political theory works as inspiration for the society.

Question 5.
What are the main stages for building a theory in any subject?
Answer:
Making or building a theory is a very comprehensive process. Generally, followings are its stages:-

• Observation
• Explanation
• Value judgement
• Acceptance on the basis of its utility and relevance.

Question 6.
What should be the characteristics of a good theory?
Answer:
A good theory should have the following characteristics.

1. It should be free from subjectivity.
2. It should be based on discussion, debate, rational thinking and facts.
3. Preferably it should be based on empiricism.
4. Theory must be clear and relevant.
5. It should have social, economic, moral significance.
6. It should be legitimate.

Question 7.
What is the role of a Political Theorist?
Answer:
Political theorists clarify the meaning of political concepts which are made and built to represent certain situations, by looking at how they are understood and used in ordinary language. They also debate and examine the diverse meanings and opinions in a systematic manner. A theorist gives the new meaning to different concepts by studying and analysing the prevailing circumstances of the society. In this way, the theorist plays a very positive and responsible role for society.

Question 8.
Discuss Gandhi as a Theorist.
Answer:
Gandhi played a decisive role in the liberation movement of India, but we cannot put him in the category of politicians because he never played politics for power and authority. In the liberation movement also, he experimented his concept of truth, non-violence and satyagraha. In his analysis of contemporary problems, he discussed the nature and role of the state. He explained the relevance of peace and non-violence in solving the problems of mankind at large.

Question 9.
What are the issues and subjects of a political theory?
Answer:
Political theory deals with the ideas and principles that shape the constitution government and social life in a systematic manner. It clarifies the meaning of concepts such as equality, liberty, freedom, dignity, justice and secularism. A theorist and his theory are generally related to establishing the truth by a reason-based study.

Question 10.
What is the importance of politics?
Answer:
Politics has assumed great importance in today’s life. It has become the synonym of power. In fact, politics is art or capacity and capability to get power and authority. It is one’s ability to command obedience by influencing the people and by shaping the behaviour of the people according to their design. Politics is an important and integral part of any society. Mahatma Gandhi once observed that politics envelops us like the coils of a snake and there is no other way out but to wrestle with it.

Question 11.
What is the function of Government?
Answer:
Political theory is largely associated with the study of the number of political institutions in which the government is the main institution. Like other social organisations and institutions like family, tribes, government play an important role in the lives of the people. The government is concerned about the security and development and welfare of the man. It frames and determines our foreign policy, educational policy and economic policy. Day by day the role of the government is increasing in the welfare and development of man.

Question 12.
What is the political role of a political theory?
Answer:
Political theory is related to the study of every idea and institution which has political relevance. Politics arises from the fact that we have different visions of what is just and desirable for us and our society. It involves what the government should do or should not do. It conceptualises the political issues and systems of governance which are designed to promote social development.

Question 13.
Name some thinkers and the issues with which they, had been related.

Question 14.
Why different theories have been given on the same issues at a different point of time?
Answer:
It is a fact that the same issue has been defined, theorised and understood differently at different point of time. In fact, no theory can ever be relevant. As time changes,’ its relevance may also get eroded. For example, the concept of equality has been understood differently from Plato to Marx. In the same way, justice has been defined differently by Plato and Aristotle who were otherwise Teacher and Pupil. A theorist is also the product of the age in which he or she lives. It is, therefore, they add the essentials of a concept or an institution as per the requirement of the need of the people and which may be accepted by the people of that age.

Question 15.
How a theory is built up?
Answer:
Generally there three stages of the building of theory i.e. observation, analysis and judgement. Political theorists clarify the meaning of political concepts by looking at how they are understood and used in ordinary language. The debate and examine the diverse meanings and opinions in a systematic manner to reach a value judgement which is called as theory.

Political Theory: An Introduction Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1.
Define the meaning and need of the theory.
Answer:
Theory can be defined as a tested hypothesis. It is a value judgement based on study, reason, facts, observation and analysis a particular situation or an issue. It is a generalisation on a particular aspect of social life, economic life or political life. The theory is a body of rules, regulations based on certain ideology and methodology to take society in a particular direction.

The theory is needed for every discipline, area of study and also for every society. Without the existence of a theory, the study remains directionless and hypothetical. Theory removes the confusions prevailing in society. In every age, there have been theorists who have given their theories for the use of that society. Their methodology may be different. Ancient Greek thinkers like Plato and Aristotle gave their theory about the state society, justice, education and forms of Government. Marx and Gandhi gave their own theories on the prevailing problems of society. We can say that the theory is needed for every society of every time.

Question 2.
What is Political Theory?
Answer:
The political theory refers to the value of judicial decisions and a generalisation about the political issues like state, government, political leadership, based on the study and analysis and which is useful for the society and which is accepted by the society. According to Zemino, Political Theory is the critical study of the principles of right order in human social existence.

The political theory attempts to explain the attitudes and actions arising from ordinary political life. The political theory is a generalised statement about political issues and political realities.

Question 3.
Explain the area of political theory.
Answer:
Every political issue and action comes in the purview of the study of political theory. The political theory examines questions of political relevance systematically. These issues are like freedom, equality and justice and the institutions like state, government and the administrations. It explains the meaning and significance of these and other related concepts. It clarifies the existing definitions of these concepts by focussing on some major political thinkers of the past and present. Every political thinker has dealt with the problem of his time and gave his judgement to be followed by the society. The political theory also reexamines the meaning and definitions of the concepts and seeks to modify to the extent, it is desired. The very objective of a political theory is to train citizens to think rationally about political questions and assess the political events of the contemporary world.

Question 4.
What are the essential characteristics of a good theory?
Answer:
In fact, the ideal theory is one which offers the maximum and best solutions of the contemporary problems of the social, economic and political life of the society. A good political theory should qualify the ‘ following characteristics:-

1. The theory should not be hypothetical.
2. It should be based on study, facts, reason and analysis.
3. It should be specific.
4. It should be objective.
5. It should be relevant.
6. It should be supported by society.
7. The theory should be reflective of contemporary issues.
8. The theory should be based on scientific methods.

Question 5.
Discuss the subject matter of Political Theory.
Answer:
Political theory has a wide scope. In fact, the subject matter of the study of political theory is dependent on the approach which we adopt for the study of political issues.

Followings are the subject matter of political theory:-

1. State.
2. Government.
3. Political concepts like equality, freedom, liberty and justice.
4. Political institutions.
5. Authority.
6. Legitimacy
7. Political parties.
8. Pressure groups.
9. Political process
10. Power.
11. Policies.
12. Contemporary problems.

Question 6.
Discuss the utility of a political theory.
Answer:
We can understand the significance and utility of a political theory in the following areas:-

1. It offers solutions to contemporary political problems.
2. It helps in removing the prevailing confusion of society.
3. It gives direction to the society.
4. It acts as an inspiration for the society.
5. It brings a change in society.
6. It breaks the conservative character of the society.
7. It brings reformation in society.
8. It brings a revolution in society.
9. It frames the policies for the future.
10. It offers planning for the future.
11. It helps in studying and understanding the political realities.
12. It helps in research and conceptualisation.

Question 7.
What is politics?
Answer:
Different people have a different understanding of politics. Politics is in fact power. It is one’s capability and capacity to obtain one’s command. It is an art. It is a methodology to get the position of authority. Some of the people regard it as a kind of public service. Many people associates politics with manipulation and intrigue undertook to pursue ambitions and satisfy wants. Politics is an art to get and retain one’s power and authority over others. Politics is generally understood in a negative sense. Politics has many aspects like:

1. Politics as a power struggle.
2. Politics as a service to mankind.
3. Politics as an art of domination.
4. Politics as an art of commanding obedience.
5. Politics as a method of controlling the political process.
6. In Marxism sense, politics is to control economic relations.

Question 8.
Discuss how politics operates.
Answer:
Politics lies in the nature of man that is why we regard politics as natural. The interests of the people are different and they are bound to differ. All the people have different visions of what is just or what is unjust. What is desirable for us or what is undesirable for us and our- society. It involves the multiple negotiations that go on in a society through which the collective decisions are made. It is therefore regarded that politics is a mechanism of decision making for society. It is a method of evaluating the relations between the people and the government. It is also a method of influencing the decision-making process at different levels. Through politics, people try to promote social development and help to resolve common problems.

Question 9.
What is the difference between traditional political theory and modern political theory?
Answer:
Political Theory is the outcome of the approach which we adopt for the political issues and political problems. There have been mainly two approaches i.e. Traditional approach and Modem approach. Following are the features of the traditional and modern approach with their difference:-
1. Traditional approach

1. It is subjective.
2. It is descriptive.
3. It is hypothetical.
4. It is value-based.
5. It is institutional.
6. It is philosophical, legal and reformative.

2. Modern approach

1. It is objective.
2. It is empirical.
3. It is scientific.
4. It is inter-disciplinary.
5. It is based on facts.
6. It is analytical.

Question 10.
Write the names of some prominent theorists with their subject matter.
Answer:
Following are names of some prominent theorists with their subject matter:-

Question 11.
Can you identify the political principle/value which is in the application in each of the following statements/situation?
(a) I should be able to decide which subjects I want to study in. school.
(b) The practice of untouchability has been abolished.
(c) AH Indians are equal before the law.
(d) Minorities can have their own school and colleges.
(e) Foreigners who are visiting India cannot vote in Indian elections.
(f) There should be no censorship in India or films.
(g) Students should be consulted while planning the annual day functions.
(h) Everyone must join the Republic Day celebrations.
Answer:
(a) Right to freedom.
(b) Principle of equality.
(c) Equality before law.
(d) Freedom of religions.
(e) Rightofvote(Political right)
(f) Right of expression.
(g) Right of participation.
(h) Principle of nationalism.

Question 12.
What is the difference between Politicians and Political Thinkers?
Answer:
A politician is associated with the power game. He is involved in party-politics. That means a politician is one who practices politics. A politician has a narrow approach. On the other hand, a political theorist offers a solution to the problems of society by studying and analysing them. Political thinkers have a broad view and given direction to the society. There is a clear cut difference between politicians and political theorists. Pt. Jawahar Lai Nehru and Stalin were politicians while Marx and M.K. Gandhi were political thinkers and theorists.

Question 13.
Discuss the Marxist Theory.
Answer:
Marx in his famous book ‘Das Capital’ propounded his theory in which he analysed and diagnosed the origin and development of the system of capitalism and the role of the state in such a system. His theory has the following elements:-

1. Two class theory – In which he was that there have ever been two classes. One exploitative class and Exploited class.
2. Theory of class struggle – There is a constant struggle between these two classes, which will ever continue.
3. An economic interpretation of history – Marx regarded history
   as the record of the struggle between the exploitative class and exploited class and not the record of war among kings.
4. Theory of surplus value – He proves that the gap between the capitalist and labourer is due to the surplus-value which is in fact the share of the labourer.
5. Establishment of communism – It means the establishment of a casteless; classless and stateless society.

Question 14.
Discuss the features and characteristics of the Gandhian Theory of politics.
Answer:
Gandhi is regarded as a great thinker and political theorist of his age. He has relevance even today not only in India but for the whole world. It can be said that his theory has more relevance today than ever before. Gandhi explained the hollowness of social evils like casteism. communalism and untouchability. In his approach, he was nearer to Marx. He also advocated for the removal of state because he regarded the state as a mechanical institution. He also was against the existence of the state. Gandhi’s philosophy is based on the principle of

1. Truth
2. Non-violence and Satyagrah. He won the Indian independence by these weapons.

Political Theory: An Introduction Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1.
Discuss the meaning, scope and utility of the political theory.
Answer:
Without a definite theory, no life, no society, no nation and no discipline can move ahead properly. The theory is a body of tested hypothesis in the form of conceptualized decisions, value judgement and useful generalisations for the society. It is based on rational discussion, debate and study and analysis. One learned political theorist has to define political theory as an attempt to explain the attitudes and actions arising from ordinary political life.

David Held says “Political Theories are complex networks of concepts and generalisations about political life involving idea, assumptions and statements about the nature, purposes and key features of government, state and society and about the political capabilities of human beings.”

Political Theory has wide scope in its meaning and application. The political theory includes in its study the concepts like equality, freedom, liberty, justice, dignity are also the process and institutions like decision-making process, state, society and form of governments. It also includes in its study, the new concepts like power, authority, legitimacy, political socialization, political modernization, political communication, and elite, etc.

Political theory plays a very significant role in understanding, studying and analysing the political ideas, political situations and political realities. It gives the relevance to the political decisions taken on the basis of reason, debate and scientific. It gives proper direction to society and brings positive transformation by removing misunderstanding and confusion.