Political Philosophy and Obligation

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Questions and Answers

Which philosophers are referenced as examples of those who attempted to resolve the problem of political obligation in the seventeenth century?

Hobbes and Locke (correct)
Rousseau and Mill
Benn and Peters
Socrates and Plato

What is one of the main issues debated among contemporary political philosophers regarding political obligation?

The sufficiency of historical theories of political obligation
The existence of a satisfactory theory of political obligation (correct)
The role of social contracts in enforcing political obligation
The effectiveness of political authorities in society

What analogy is used to explain the concept of political obligation?

Playing cricket without obeying the umpire (correct)
Playing chess without a board
Engaging in a debate without moderators
Playing football without rules

What is a potential conclusion about the history of political thought regarding political obligation?

It consists of diverse and sophisticated attempts to address the issue (B) Signup and view all the answers

According to some contemporary philosophers, what remains unresolved in political philosophy?

The problem of political obligation (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the statement by Benn and Peters suggest about authority?

Accepting authority is crucial for societal function (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why might some philosophers doubt the significance of political obligation in political philosophy?

They think it is a minor issue compared to others (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the text imply about the progress made in resolving the problem of political obligation?

No progress has been made in modern theories (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is associated with the idea that the state embodies evolved morality?

Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the conservative view on political obligation?

Obedience to state authority is a matter of duty. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does Burke suggest regarding tradition and custom in politics?

Respect for tradition is crucial for political obligation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What did Burke support regarding the American Revolution?

He supported it because it upheld traditional rights. (A) Signup and view all the answers

According to Oakeshott, what is the basis of political actions?

Political actions are inherently traditional. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What did Burke oppose regarding the French Revolution?

Its focus on individual rights and abstract equality. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why do traditionalists believe in obedience to the state?

They view it as a well-established convention. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a duty of individuals according to the conservative theory?

To accept and obey the state authority. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is delegated legislation?

Legislation made by bodies that are not part of the legislature. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does time pressure impact the need for delegated legislation?

It necessitates the delegation of detailed work to the executive. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason for the growth of delegated legislation?

The rapid increase in the volume of legislation. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why might technicality necessitate delegated legislation?

Technical matters require input from specialized knowledge. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What philosophical change has contributed to the rise of delegated legislation?

The transition from a laissez-faire state to a welfare state. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is one example of delegated legislation mentioned in the content?

Rules, regulations, or bye-laws issued by the executive. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes the role of the legislature in delegated legislation?

To form general policies and delegate details to the executive. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does domestic liberty primarily advocate for regarding the role of a wife?

A wife should hold property and conduct business independently. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the nature of legislative work in modern democratic states?

The increasing complexity of state functions requires collaboration with non-legislators. (D) Signup and view all the answers

National liberty is synonymous with which of the following concepts?

National independence (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the ideal of international liberty?

Settlement of disputes through peaceful means (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which philosophical ideas form the basis of moral liberty?

Idealistic thoughts from historical figures (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does national liberty play in national movements or wars?

It is considered a struggle for national independence. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of marriage is emphasized under the principle of domestic liberty?

Marriage is a contractual agreement recognized by law. (B) Signup and view all the answers

International liberty renounces what type of actions?

Use of force and aggression (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of national liberty suggest about the relationship between nations?

Nations should remain independent and sovereign. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What has led to the substantial growth of delegated legislation during the World Wars?

Need for immediate remedial actions (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason for the evolution of empowering the executive to make subordinate legislation?

To fulfill practical necessities of governance (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is wider power given to the executive in modern administration?

To enable quicker response to complex issues (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of using traditional legislative processes in times of crisis?

Frustration of legislative goals may occur (B) Signup and view all the answers

What legislation was passed in 1869 regarding the Goro Hills region?

To remove it from Bengal's legal jurisdiction (C) Signup and view all the answers

Until 1949, which body served as the highest Court for appeal in constitutional matters in India?

Privy Council (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the aim of the Act passed in 1869 in relation to the officer appointed by the Legislative Governor of Bengal?

To delegate civil and criminal authority (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the expansion of the roles of the State necessitate in modern governance?

Creation of new forms of legislation (D) Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Political Obligation

Contemporary political philosophers are divided on the existence of a satisfactory theory of political obligation.
Debates continue regarding the essence and resolution of the "problem of political obligation."
Historical attempts to define political obligation span from Socrates to modern theorists, showcasing its complex evolution.
Traditionalists view the state as an evolving institution requiring obedience for societal peace and order.
Hegel argues that morality and political obligation are embodied within state customs and institutions, demanding obedience to the established order.
Burke supports political obligation grounded in respect for tradition, emphasizing the importance of national customs.
Oakeshott endorses the idea that political actions are inherently traditional, as political awareness arises only from experience.

Delegated Legislation

Defined as legislation created by bodies other than the legislature, delegated with powers to enact laws within predefined limits.

Reasons for Growth of Delegated Legislation

Increased state functions in welfare and regulation demand extensive legislation that often overwhelms the legislature's capacity to address in detail.
Complex and technical subject matter necessitates expertise, leading to delegating authority to specialists in specific fields.
Past crises, such as wars and natural disasters, have required swift legislative action that traditional processes cannot accommodate.
Modern administration's complexity necessitates flexible responses, prompting empowerment of authorities to create subordinate legislation.

History of Delegated Legislation in India

The Privy Council served as the highest constitutional authority in India until 1949, influencing legislative matters.
The case of R.vs.Birah explored the constitutionality regarding the delegation of powers to local officers outside direct legislative control.

Concepts of Liberty

Domestic Liberty: Refers to individual rights within the family unit, advocating for women's independence and parental responsibilities.
National Liberty: Represents self-determination and independence for nations, entwined with patriotism and resistance to subjugation.
International Liberty: Envisions a world free from armed conflict, promoting peaceful dispute resolution and international cooperation.
Moral Liberty: Rooted in philosophical ideals from historical thinkers, emphasizing ethical freedoms and personal autonomy.

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