Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the definition of objectivity as presented?
What is the definition of objectivity as presented?
- The belief that all perceptions are equally valid.
- Experience that is modified by individual thoughts.
- A characteristic of perception influenced by personal experience.
- Reality that is assessed independently of individual thought. (correct)
Which fallacy is based on assuming 'truth' is always between two competing positions?
Which fallacy is based on assuming 'truth' is always between two competing positions?
- Argument to Moderation Fallacy (correct)
- Slippery Slope Fallacy
- Straw Man Fallacy
- Hasty Generalization Fallacy
How does political science mainly study power?
How does political science mainly study power?
- By analyzing subjective interpretations of governance.
- Through the isolation of statehood from other social factors.
- Through empirical observations of direct conflicts. (correct)
- By focusing solely on the physical strength of individuals.
According to Max Weber, what characterizes a state?
According to Max Weber, what characterizes a state?
What does the two-dimensional view of power encompass?
What does the two-dimensional view of power encompass?
Which of the following is true about subjective experience?
Which of the following is true about subjective experience?
What is a key difference between power and strength in political science?
What is a key difference between power and strength in political science?
What does objectivity not equate to?
What does objectivity not equate to?
Flashcards
Subjectivity
Subjectivity
Interpreting reality based on personal beliefs, experiences, and biases.
Objectivity
Objectivity
Observing reality in a neutral and unbiased way, focusing on measurable facts.
Argument to Moderation Fallacy
Argument to Moderation Fallacy
A logical fallacy based on the incorrect assumption that the 'truth' is somewhere in between two competing positions.
Power (in Political Science)
Power (in Political Science)
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State
State
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One-Dimensional Power
One-Dimensional Power
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Two-Dimensional Power
Two-Dimensional Power
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Three-Dimensional Power
Three-Dimensional Power
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Study Notes
Subjectivity
- Subjectivity is a characteristic of reality as perceived, rather than as independent of the mind.
- It's experience or knowledge conditioned by personal/mental characteristics, modified by personal views, experiences or background.
Objectivity
- Objectivity describes objects, phenomena, and conditions in the realm of sensible experience, independent of individual thought.
- Observers can perceive it.
- It's measurable and empirical.
- Observing reality in measurable and empirical ways is key to objectivity.
- Identifying facts independent of individual perspectives is essential.
- Providing evidence supporting claims is part of establishing objectivity.
- Connecting arguments to accounts and accepting evidence independent of bias is crucial.
Objectivity vs. Neutrality
- Objectivity is not neutrality
- The argument of moderation fallacy is a logical error involving the incorrect assumption that 'truth' lies in the middle of two conflicting positions.
Power, Governance, and the State
- Political scientists study various aspects of society, using concepts of power, governance, and the state to construct their explanations.
Defining the State
- The state is a human community laying claim to the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory (Max Weber).
Disambiguating Power: Three Dimensions
- One-Dimensional Power: The ability to compel someone to do something they wouldn't otherwise do (direct observable conflicts).
- Two-Dimensional Power: Includes the ability to control the political agenda, shaping what issues are discussed and debated (indirect influence, agenda-setting).
- Three-Dimensional Power: Operates beyond visible decisions, shapes preferences, social arrangements and norms, often without awareness (e.g. power embedded in social systems).
Governance
- Distinct from government, governance involves institutions, practices, and discourses to transform and direct subjects.
- It involves subject formation, identity, and legitimation.
- It can be seen in general aspects of life.
- Political scientists have specific interests or specific forms of life, like capitalism or modernity.
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