The concept of power is central to the study of politics and social relations, encompassing various dimensions and manifestations that influence interactions between individuals, groups, and institutions. Power can be understood as the ability to influence or control the behavior, actions, and outcomes of others, either through coercion, persuasion, or authority. It operates at multiple…
Describe briefly various theories of rights.
Various theories of rights have been proposed throughout history to provide a philosophical foundation for understanding and justifying the concept of rights. These theories offer different perspectives on the nature, origin, and justification of rights, ranging from natural rights and legal positivism to social contract theory and human rights. Here, we’ll explore some of the…
Distinguish between classical and modern political theory.
Classical and modern political theory represent two distinct periods in the development of political thought, each characterized by its own unique approaches, themes, and intellectual currents. While classical political theory refers to the works of ancient and medieval philosophers and theorists, modern political theory emerged during the Enlightenment and encompasses the ideas of thinkers from…
What is Gandhi’s contribution to the theory and practice of satyagraha ? Elucidate.
Mahatma Gandhi’s contribution to the theory and practice of satyagraha is profound and far-reaching, shaping not only the Indian independence movement but also inspiring countless movements for justice, civil rights, and nonviolent resistance around the world. Satyagraha, a term coined by Gandhi, combines the Sanskrit words “satya” (truth) and “agraha” (insistence or holding firmly), representing…
Describe briefly the causes of political violence.
Political violence encompasses a wide range of actions aimed at achieving political goals through the use of force, coercion, or intimidation. It includes acts such as terrorism, insurgency, civil war, state repression, and political assassinations. The causes of political violence are complex and multifaceted, often stemming from a combination of social, economic, political, and cultural…
Explain the concept of political obligation.
The concept of political obligation addresses the question of why individuals are morally obligated to obey the laws and authority of the state. It is a fundamental issue in political philosophy, exploring the nature and justification of the relationship between citizens and the state. Various theories have been proposed to explain political obligation, ranging from…
Write a note on the Gandhian Perspective on duties and rights.
The Gandhian perspective on duties and rights is deeply rooted in Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence, truth, and selfless service to humanity. Gandhi believed that true freedom and justice could only be achieved through the fulfillment of one’s duties and responsibilities towards others, rather than the assertion of individual rights and privileges. His teachings emphasize…
What is civil society?
Civil society refers to the realm of organized social life that exists outside the spheres of the state and the market, encompassing a wide range of voluntary associations, organizations, and networks formed by individuals and groups to pursue common interests, express their views, and advance social, cultural, and political goals. Civil society plays a crucial…
The Marxist views on Justice.
Marxist views on justice are deeply rooted in the critique of capitalism and the pursuit of social and economic equality. Karl Marx, the founder of Marxism, developed a comprehensive theory of justice that aimed to overcome the inequalities and injustices inherent in capitalist societies. Marx’s conception of justice is grounded in the principles of socialism,…
Positive liberty
Positive liberty, a concept proposed by political philosopher Isaiah Berlin, refers to the capacity or ability of individuals to control their own lives, achieve self-realization, and fulfill their potential. Unlike negative liberty, which emphasizes freedom from external constraints or interference, positive liberty focuses on the presence of enabling conditions or opportunities that empower individuals to…
Negative liberty
Negative liberty, as conceptualized by political philosopher Isaiah Berlin, refers to the absence of external constraints or interference on an individual’s actions. It emphasizes freedom from external coercion, restraint, or interference by other individuals, groups, or institutions. Negative liberty is often associated with the idea of “freedom from” rather than “freedom to,” focusing on the…
Write a note on inequality in the contemporary world.
Inequality in the Contemporary World: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions Inequality is a pervasive and complex issue that affects societies around the world, manifesting in various forms such as economic disparities, social exclusion, and unequal access to opportunities and resources. In the contemporary world, inequality has become increasingly pronounced, driven by a combination of economic, political,…