POLITICAL THEORY : AN INTRODUCTION
Main Points :-
➢ What is politics?
➢ What we read in political theory?
➢ Putting political principles into practice.
➢ Why should we read political theory.
➢ Politics V/s. Political theory.
➢ Importance of political theory.
What is Politics
Scholars have different views to define politics in general:-
(i) Politics is the art of governing.
(ii) Politics teaches how to run the government's activities properly.
(iii) Politics presents a solution to administrative governance disputes.
(iv) Politics teaches participation, but the common man encounters conflicting images of politics.
Today, the relationship of politics is linked to personal selfishness
(v) It is related to public welfare.
What Do We Study in Political Theory
• In political theory we study various aspects of life like social life, government and constitution,
freedom, equality, justice, democracy, secular etc.
• Reads the principles of fixed values by which policies are directed.
Putting Political Principles into Practice
The nature of politics has changed with the passage of time, the task of putting political principles
such as freedom and equality into practice is very difficult. We should abandon our prejudices and
adopt them. By studying political theory, we can test our thoughts and feelings about political
systems, we can understand that only conscious citizens can develop the country. Political theory is
not an object, it is related to humans.
For example, equality means equal opportunities for all, yet separate arrangements have been made
for women, elders or differently abled, so we can say that complete equality is not possible.
Reasonable basis of discrimination is important.
Why We Should Study Political Theory
To be a citizen to take a proper decision at the time of future problems.
1. For basic and general knowledge.
2. To become an empowered and aware citizen.
3. To awaken political consciousness.
4. To cast the vote .
5. To eradicate prejudices from society and establish unity.
6. To give inspiration and right direction to the movement.
7. To learn the art of making the right decision after assessing the debate, argument, profit and
loss. It is necessary to study political theory.
8. For information about governance. To make policy.
9. To gain knowledge of the utility of democracy.
10. To understand the rights and duties .
11. To make future plans.
12. To promote international peace and cooperation.
13. For studying various governance systems.
14. Being a student .
Politics V/s. Political Theory
Political theory in politics are two different beliefs. Politics is made up of two words, Raj + policy,
ie policy-based governance. The use of any principle or practice at the individual level of the job
comes under politics. The decision-making process, the process of forming a government, the process
of obtaining power, etc.
While the main
subjects of political theory are the state and the government. It explains the meaning of concepts like
freedom, equality, justice and democracy. The aim of political theory is to train citizens to think
rationally about political questions and assess socio-political events properly. Unlike in mathematics,
where there is a definite definition of triangle or square, in political theory we come across several
definitions of equality, freedom or justice.
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This is because words like equality, justice are concerned with our relationship with other human
beings rather than anything. Political theory encourages us to test emotions through our thoughts and
behaviour about political things.
Secondly, political science and politics are also two different perceptions. Political science is born
before politics. It is based on morality, whereas politics is based on opportunity and convenience,
even then it can be considered as two sides of the coin.
Importance of Political Theory
• Development of systematic thinking about justice and equality.
• Communicate rationally and effectively.
• Assist in efficient and effective political decision making.
• To get information of international world.
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