Karl Marx, a German philosopher, economist, and revolutionary socialist, made significant contributions to political theory that have had a profound impact on modern political thought and practice. Marx’s writings, particularly his critique of capitalism and advocacy for socialism, continue to influence debates on class struggle, inequality, exploitation, and social change. Marx’s insights into the dynamics…
Discuss Gandhi’s views on non-violence.
Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s independence movement, is renowned for his philosophy of non-violence, or ahimsa, which he considered the highest form of moral and political action. Gandhi’s views on non-violence were deeply rooted in his spiritual beliefs, ethical principles, and political strategies, and they continue to inspire movements for social justice, peace, and…
Define sovereignty and differentiate between real and titular sovereignty.
Sovereignty is a fundamental concept in political theory and international relations, referring to the supreme authority or power of a state to govern itself and determine its own affairs without interference from external sources. It encompasses the legal, political, and territorial dimensions of statehood, as well as the capacity to exercise control over a defined…
Explain the evolution and growth of democracy in the 20th century.
The 20th century witnessed significant developments in the evolution and growth of democracy around the world, marked by waves of democratization, political reforms, and struggles for self-determination. From the aftermath of World War I to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the spread of globalization, the 20th century saw the expansion of democratic principles…
“Modern political theory attempted to build a Science of Politics.” In the light of this statement, discuss the features of modern political theory.
The statement that “Modern political theory attempted to build a Science of Politics” encapsulates the aspirations of political theorists in the modern era to develop systematic and rigorous approaches to understanding and analyzing political phenomena. Emerging in the wake of the Enlightenment and the rise of modern science, modern political theory sought to apply scientific…
“Gandhian message of Truth and Non-violence seems to be the only hope and light to deal with the issues facing the contemporary world.” Discuss.
Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth and nonviolence continues to resonate as a powerful and relevant moral and political philosophy in the face of the complex challenges facing the contemporary world. Gandhi’s principles of satyagraha (truth-force) and ahimsa (nonviolence) offer a compelling vision of social change, moral integrity, and human dignity that transcends cultural, religious, and…
Define communitarianism and examine the communitarian position on state neutrality.
Communitarianism is a political and social philosophy that emphasizes the importance of community, shared values, and social cohesion in shaping individuals’ identities, behaviors, and well-being. Rooted in the communitarian critique of liberalism’s emphasis on individual rights and autonomy, communitarianism argues for a more balanced approach to political and social life that acknowledges the significance of…
Identify the major contours of political theory in the era of globalization.
The era of globalization has profoundly influenced the contours of political theory, shaping debates, perspectives, and approaches to understanding and addressing contemporary political challenges. Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of societies and economies around the world, driven by advances in technology, communication, trade, and mobility. In this context, political theory has responded…
Discuss the concept and characteristics of liberalism.
Liberalism is a political and moral philosophy that emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries as a response to the social, economic, and political upheavals of the Enlightenment era. Rooted in principles of individual liberty, equality, and limited government, liberalism seeks to protect and promote the rights and freedoms of individuals while also providing a…
Write an essay on the liberal democratic welfare state.
The liberal democratic welfare state represents a distinctive model of governance that seeks to balance individual liberty, democratic governance, and social welfare through a combination of market mechanisms, democratic institutions, and social policies. Rooted in liberal democratic principles and social contract theory, the welfare state emerged in the aftermath of World War II as a…
Examine the Gandhian concept of Civil disobedience and Satyagraha.
Mahatma Gandhi’s concepts of civil disobedience and satyagraha are central to his philosophy of nonviolent resistance and political activism. Developed during his leadership of the Indian independence movement, these principles guided Gandhi and his followers in their struggle against British colonial rule, as well as in various social and political campaigns aimed at achieving justice,…
Define political violence and discuss its various forms.
Political violence encompasses a broad range of actions and tactics aimed at achieving political objectives through the use of force, coercion, or intimidation. It includes both overt acts of physical violence, such as terrorism, insurgency, and armed conflict, as well as more covert forms of violence, such as state repression, political assassinations, and human rights…