Introduction to Political Science - Lecture 01

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Questions and Answers

Which philosopher's work was greatly influenced by the writings of John Locke?

  • Ibn KhaldÅ«n
  • Karl Marx
  • Jean-Jacques Rousseau
  • Thomas Hobbes (correct)

Which pair of philosophers both advocated for individual rights and limited government?

  • Karl Marx and John William Burgess
  • John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau (correct)
  • Thomas Hobbes and John Locke
  • Niccolo Machiavelli and Ibn KhaldÅ«n

Which philosopher is known for developing a non-religious philosophy of history?

  • Thomas Hobbes
  • John Locke
  • Ibn KhaldÅ«n (correct)
  • Niccolo Machiavelli

Which philosopher's work directly contributed to the social and political upheaval of the French Revolution?

<p>Jean-Jacques Rousseau (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Whose book, "The Science of Material Gain", is considered a compilation of existing knowledge on economics and politics in ancient India?

<p>Kautilya (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is known for his argument that the economy is the driving force behind societal change?

<p>Karl Marx (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher's work, "The Prince", presents a cynical view of power and advocates for ruthless tactics for political success?

<p>Niccolo Machiavelli (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher's ideas were directly reflected in the American Declaration of Independence?

<p>John Locke (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key value emphasized by the Post-behavioral Approach in political science?

<p>Efficiency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Marxist approach to political analysis?

<p>The distribution of power and resources (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Post-behavioral Approach differ from traditional and behavioral approaches?

<p>It rejects the idea of political science as a value-free discipline (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, who is considered the most influential scholar of international relations?

<p>Robert O. Keohane (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Marxist approach, how does the State function?

<p>As an instrument of exploitation by one class over another (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a defining characteristic of the Behavioral Approach?

<p>Focus on understanding the role of ideology in politics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The traditional approach to politics that focuses on the study of legal institutions, constitutions and their role in state organization is known as the:

<p>Legal approach (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which approach emphasizes the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods?

<p>Post-behavioral (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scholars is associated with the philosophical approach to the study of politics?

<p>Plato (A), Aristotle (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the behavioral approach, which aspect of political study emphasizes the impact of social context on individual political behavior within a community?

<p>Sociological approach (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the word "science" mean in French?

<p>Knowledge (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the central premise of Max Weber's argument regarding the rise of capitalism?

<p>Religious beliefs, specifically Protestantism, played a significant role in its emergence (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Marxist approach differ from traditionalism and behaviorism?

<p>It emphasizes the role of economic factors in political change (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The statement that 'the state makes their regulation, they are very much involved in the process of politics' is associated with which approach?

<p>Economic approach (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which approach emphasizes the study of formal political structures, such as legislatures, executives, and judiciaries?

<p>Institutional approach (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a characteristic of the traditional approaches to the study of political science?

<p>Focus on the role of emotions and instincts in political behavior (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'polis' refer to?

<p>The basic system of political organization in ancient Greece (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does politics exist, according to the passage?

<p>Because people have different beliefs and values (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Aristotle's statement, "Politics is the ‘master science’", imply?

<p>Political knowledge is essential for understanding and improving society (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, why is a well-governed society essential for human life?

<p>To protect individuals from harm and provide a sense of security (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key definitional attribute of Political Science, as presented in the passage?

<p>Political systems are derived from natural law and divine principles (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main argument of the passage regarding the relationship between individuals and their political environment?

<p>The political environment shapes individuals' lives and actions in significant ways (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main contribution of Aristotle to the field of Political Science?

<p>Establishing a systematic method for studying the political world (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best reflects the author's perspective on the significance of Political Science?

<p>Political Science is a crucial discipline for understanding and influencing human society (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary method through which political scientists verify hypotheses?

<p>Empirical verification (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of Political Science as a discipline?

<p>Application of scientific methods (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In Political Science, when do generalizations become recognized as theories?

<p>Once they are established as firm patterns (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do political scientists typically arrive at research conclusions?

<p>Using survey methods and data visualization (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best reflects the nature of Political Science?

<p>It is a social science that studies political behavior and systems. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one major argument against the classification of Political Science as a science?

<p>Human behavior is often unpredictable and illogical. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of Political Science does NOT align with the principles of natural sciences?

<p>Ability to conduct experiments in controlled environments. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason political phenomena are considered difficult to predict?

<p>They are influenced by a variety of complex factors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is frequently cited as a limitation of Political Science compared to natural sciences?

<p>The inability to predict human behavior accurately. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Political Science contributes to its subjective nature?

<p>The interactions between humans and society. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common criticism regarding the precision of Political Science concepts?

<p>Many principles are vague and lead to disagreements. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is limited experimentation considered a challenge for Political Science?

<p>Political events are unique and cannot be replicated easily. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects the belief of critics who argue that Political Science is not a true science?

<p>It often relies on uncontrollable variables in analysis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Political Science as a Science

Political Science is a systematized body of knowledge, organized through observation and comparison.

Political experiments

Political experiments are practical applications of theories, like the government's actions understood as experiments.

Generalization in Political Science

Political scientists generalize based on patterns observed in political behavior and events.

Theories in Political Science

When generalizations become well-supported, they are termed theories, and some can solidify into laws.

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Empirical verification

Political theories must be tested with evidence through methods like surveys and statistical analysis.

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Post-behavioral Approach

An approach emphasizing values like justice and equality in political science.

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Major Approaches

Three key methodologies in political science: Traditional, Behavioral, Post-behavioral.

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Marxist Approach

A political analysis method emphasizing class struggle and economic factors.

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Traditional Approach

Focuses on interrelating facts and values in political science.

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Behavioral Approach

Separates facts from values, focusing on systematic observations and data.

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Qualitative Research

Research that focuses on qualitative aspects such as narratives and experiences.

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Quantitative Research

Research that uses numerical data and statistical techniques.

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Science Definition

A systematic body of knowledge collected through observation and experimentation.

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Political Science

The study of politics, government, and political behavior.

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Aristotle

Regarded as the 'Father of Political Science' in the West.

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Polis

A Greek word meaning 'city-state,' the basis of political organization.

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Politics as a Natural State

Humans are inherently social and political beings.

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State

An organized society governed by laws and governance.

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Political Animal

The idea that humans are naturally inclined to participate in politics.

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Safety and Security

Well-governed societies ensure human safety and security.

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Master Science

Aristotle referred to politics as the 'master science' due to its foundational role in society.

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Confucius

China’s most renowned teacher and philosopher, influencing East Asian civilizations.

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Kautilya

Hindu philosopher who authored Arthashastra, a comprehensive guide on political strategy and economics.

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Ibn Khaldūn

Great Arab historian known for developing an early nonreligious philosophy of history in Muqaddimah.

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Niccolo Machiavelli

Politician and author of The Prince, advocating for ruthless political strategies for power.

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Thomas Hobbes

Philosopher supporting absolute monarchy, using geometry to develop a science of politics.

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John Locke

Philosopher who argued for democracy and individual rights, heavily influencing the Declaration of Independence.

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Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Philosopher whose work The Social Contract influenced revolutionary thought about freedom and society.

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Karl Marx

Philosopher and social scientist who criticized capitalism and outlined class struggle in his works.

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John William Burgess

Founder of the first political science department in the U.S. at Columbia, promoting public service education.

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Natural Sciences

Disciplines that rely on precise measurement and mathematical calculation.

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Quantification in Politics

Political scientists quantify and statistically manipulate data to test hypotheses.

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Complexity of Decisions

Many political decisions are made secretly and cannot be easily quantified.

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Unpredictable Human Behavior

Human decisions in politics are often irrational and cannot be easily predicted.

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Limited Experimentation

Unlike natural sciences, political experiments in real environments are difficult to conduct.

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Lack of Objectivity

Political Science is subjective, influenced by personal beliefs and societal factors.

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Difficulty in Prediction

Political phenomena do not adhere to strict sequences, making predictions challenging.

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Max Weber

An economist and sociologist who proposed that religion drives social change, especially in the formation of capitalism.

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Neoliberal Theory

An international relations theory developed by Robert O. Keohane focusing on the importance of international cooperation and institutions.

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Philosophical Approach

The oldest method of studying politics, focusing on ethics and advising rulers through speculative thought.

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Historical Approach

This approach examines past events to explain the development of political institutions.

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Legal Approach

Links political study with legal processes and institutions created by the state to maintain order.

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Sociological Approach

Emphasizes the social context in understanding political behavior and contributions like political culture.

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Psychological Approach

Studies emotions and personality traits as they affect political behavior and decision-making.

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Economic Approach

Analyzes politics through the lens of production and distribution, noting the state's regulatory role.

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Study Notes

Introduction to Political Science (POL 101) - Lecture 01

  • Political science is everywhere
  • Politics is as old as humanity
  • Politics exists due to disagreements among people
  • All aspects of human existence are dominated by politics
  • Everyone is subject to a political system, whether they like it or not
  • Politics defines the relationship between individuals and their social/political environment
  • Politics is the "master science" (Aristotle)

Origin of the term "Political Science"

  • "Political Science" is closely related to "Politics"
  • "Politics" comes from the Greek word "polis", meaning "city-state"
  • "City-state" was the fundamental political organizational structure in Ancient Greece
  • Aristotle, a Greek philosopher, is often considered the originator of political science
  • He advocated for living a virtuous life

Father of Political Science

  • Aristotle is widely recognized as the Father of Political Science in the West

Definition of "Political Science"

  • The state is a natural creation; humans are naturally political beings
  • Those who do not participate in politics are either superior or inferior to humanity
  • Aristotle considered them to be 'tribeless', lawless, and homeless.
  • Aristotle likened them to a bird flying alone

Key Definitional Attributes of "Political Science"

  • Human beings are social and political animals
  • The nature of a rational human being is to live in a society; by nature or by compulsion
  • Safety and security of human life are ensured in a well-governed society
  • An organized society is a state
  • Human beings need a well-governed state for progress

Definition of "Political Science" - Second Perspective

  • Politics is an ongoing competition among people (usually in groups) to shape policies favorable to them
  • They can influence members' beliefs & values through indirect methods
  • Political science is a method for studying politics

Politicians vs. Political Scientists

  • Politicians prioritize power and popularity, taking practical approaches, holding firm views, focusing on single causes, and aiming for short-term gains. They plan for elections and respond to groups. Name recognition is also a goal.
  • Political Scientists prioritize accuracy and abstract thought, seeking tentative conclusions, multiple causes, long-term consequences, planning for publications, and the good of the whole. Professional prestige is a goal.

The Scope of the Discipline

  • Political science overlaps with other social sciences (economics, psychology, sociology) due to the multifaceted nature of power.
  • A 1948 UNESCO conference defined political science as the study of political theories, institutions, parties/pressure groups, international relations, the relationship between government & civil society, power, authority, influences, political activities/processes, and the political system/environment.

Chronological Development of Political Science

  • Plato: A foundational thinker; wrote dialogues about politics, including The Republic
  • Aristotle: Applied empirical methods to the study of politics building on Plato's works
  • St. Augustine: Argued for the importance of salvation in lives' political context
  • St. Thomas Aquinas: Bridged Aristotelian and Christian thought
  • Confucius: A Chinese philosopher who significantly influenced East Asian civilizations
  • Kautilya: A Hindu statesman/philosopher; wrote 'Arthashastra' (a classic treatise on politics & material gain)
  • Ibn Khaldun: A foundational Arab historian developing early non-religious philosophies of history.
  • Machiavelli: Wrote The Prince, a perspective on obtaining & maintaining power (strategy/ruthlessness)
  • Hobbes: Used geometrical methods to explain politics, advocating for absolute monarchy
  • Locke: Argued for a democratic government respecting individual & property rights (influencing Jefferson)
  • Rousseau: A revolutionary thinker whose ideas influenced the French/American Revolutions
  • Karl Marx: Economist/philosopher; viewed economics as fundamental to social changes and political revolutions; advocated for Marxism which has led to political approaches
  • Burgess: Founded a political science department at Columbia University; was focused on institutionalizing political science
  • Max Weber: Argued that religion, not economics, was the force in social change
  • Robert O. Keohane: Influential scholar in international relations; developed the neoliberal theory.

Major Approaches to the Study of Political Science - Traditional Approaches

  • Philosophical: Aims to advise rulers; is centered in ethics and not objective. (Plato, Aristotle, Rousseau, Kant, Hegel)
  • Historical: Focuses on the history and development of political institutions and events to understand their origins and growth
  • Legal: Examines legal/juridical processes/institutions of the state for political organization
  • Institutional: Emphasizes the formal structures of political organizations (legislature, executive, judiciary).

Major Approaches to the Study of Political Science - Behavioral Approaches

  • Sociological: Explains how the social context impacts political behavior.
  • Psychological: Analyzes emotions, habits, instincts, and personality to understand political behavior.
  • Economic: Studies the economic character of politics, focusing on production/distribution of goods.

Major Approaches to the Study of Political Science - Post-behavioral Approaches

  • Aims to consider values to understand political activity. Aims towards being less purely academic.
  • Encourages involvement in public/political issues

Major Approaches to the Study of Political Science - Marxist Approach

  • Focuses on the production/distribution of goods in assessing social changes and political revolutions
  • Treats the state as an instrument for exploitation among classes

Is Political Science a "Science"? - Arguments for

  • Politics is a systematized body of organized knowledge
  • Scientific methods are used to collect and organize knowledge
  • Political experiments are possible, using the government as a test case
  • Empirical evidence can be used for conclusions (e.g., impartial judiciary, free press).
  • Hypothesis testing and surveys are used to strengthen theories

Is Political Science a "Science"? - Arguments Against

  • Disagreement among political thinkers regarding definition & scope.
  • Lack of precise principles due to many debates/controversies
  • Human behavior is unpredictable unlike matter in science.
  • Experimentation is not applicable in an environment like real world politics.
  • There are subjective elements inherent, and objectivity is hard to quantify.
  • Predicting future events in politics is difficult.

Is Political Science a Science? - Debate Outcomes (Concise Summary)

  • Political science's study is not as easily quantifiable as other pure sciences.
  • Theories and laws can be developed through observation of patterns though.
  • Political science is a social science, not a pure science (due to uncertainty and complex human element)

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