Understanding Political Theory: Freedom

• Political Science is the study of politics and power from domestic, international, and comparative perspectives.
• It entails understanding political ideas, ideologies, institutions, policies, processes, and behavior, as well as groups, classes, government, diplomacy, law, strategy, and war.

Understanding Political Theory

• Political Theory deals with the ideas and principles that shape political life.
• It touches upon freedom, equality, justice, democracy and more; abstracting them, understanding them, and applying them in the real world.
• Political theories can be descriptive, analytical, or normative.
• It encourages students to think independently about political events and assess their own political preferences.

Freedom

• Freedom refers to the absence of constraints.
• It also entails the ability to make choices and act autonomously.
• Positive liberty refers to the ability to develop one's potential.
• Negative liberty refers to the absence of external constraints.
• Individual liberty must be balanced with social good; restrictions are necessary.

Equality

• Equality means equal opportunity for all.
• It does not mean treating everyone identically.
• Distributive justice aims to allocate resources fairly.
• Equality can be political, social, or economic.

Justice

• Justice involves fairness in the distribution of rewards and burdens.
• Procedural justice ensures fair rules are followed.
• Social justice addresses historical inequalities.
• Justice also includes ensuring due process in legal matters.

Rights

• Rights are entitlements that individuals can claim from the state or other individuals.
• Natural rights are inherent to all humans.
• Legal rights are those recognized by law.
• Rights place obligations on the state to protect them.

Citizenship

• Citizenship implies membership in a political community.
• Citizens have rights and obligations.
• Citizenship can be acquired by birth or naturalization.
• Active participation is crucial for a healthy democracy.

Nationalism

• Nationalism is the belief that nations should have their own states.
• It can be a source of unity and identity.
• It can also lead to conflict and exclusion.
• Patriotism is love for one's country.

Secularism

• Secularism implies separation of religion from state.
• The state should treat all religions equally.
• It protects religious freedom.
• Secularism is necessary for a pluralistic society.

Peace

• Peace refers to the absence of war and violence.
• It also includes social justice and equality.
• Peace can be achieved through diplomacy, negotiation, and understanding.
• Sustainable peace requires addressing root causes of conflict.

Development

• Development refers to economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability.
• It aims to improve the quality of life for all.
• Development should be inclusive and equitable.
• It requires good governance and responsible citizenship.