Political Science I (B.a.ll.B 111) - Unit I

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Class : B.A.LL.B I
Paper Code : B.A.LL.B 111
Subject : Political Science I
Faculty Name : Ms. Sakshi Vashisth
Unit – I
What is Politics: Theorizing the ‘Political’

Politics is a dynamic process that shapes societies through collective decision-making. It
involves a range of activities, including negotiation, conflict resolution, and the pursuit of power.
To better understand politics, we can consider various theoretical frameworks that help
illuminate its complexities.
Key Elements of Politics

1. Power: Central to political discourse is the concept of power, which can be defined as
the ability to influence or control the actions of others. Power can be exercised through
formal mechanisms, such as laws and policies, or through informal means, such as
persuasion and social influence.
2. Governance: Governance refers to the systems and processes through which authority is
exercised. It encompasses the roles of various institutions, including governments,
NGOs, and international organizations, in creating and enforcing rules and policies.
3. Conflict and Cooperation: Politics often involves conflicts of interest, where different
groups or individuals compete for resources, power, and influence. However, it also
involves cooperation, where parties work together to achieve common goals, negotiate
compromises, and resolve disputes.
4. Public Policy: Politics is intrinsically linked to the creation and implementation of public
policies, which are the courses of action adopted by governments or organizations to
address societal issues.
Approaches to Political Theory

Political theory encompasses several approaches, each providing distinct insights into the nature
of politics.
1. Normative Approach:
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Normative Approach in Political Theory

The normative approach in political theory focuses on what ought to be rather than what is. It
examines the ethical dimensions of politics and seeks to establish standards and ideals for
political behaviour, institutions, and policies. This approach is deeply concerned with questions
of morality, justice, and values in political contexts.
Key Characteristics of the Normative Approach

1. Value-Based Analysis:
o The normative approach is grounded in ethical considerations. It assesses political
actions, institutions, and policies based on values such as justice, equality,
freedom, and human rights.
o For example, a normative analysis might evaluate whether a specific law
promotes social justice or exacerbates inequality.
2. Prescriptive Nature:
o Unlike descriptive approaches that aim to explain political phenomena as they
are, the normative approach is prescriptive. It seeks to provide guidelines for how
politics should be conducted and what principles should govern political life.
o It asks questions like: What is a just society? How should power be distributed?
What rights should individuals have?
3. Emphasis on Ideals:
o Normative theorists often engage with philosophical concepts and ideals, drawing
on the works of prominent philosophers to articulate visions of the good society.
o Theories of justice, democracy, and rights are central to this approach, with
scholars often referencing thinkers like John Rawls, Robert Nozick, and
Immanuel Kant.
4. Critical Evaluation:
o The normative approach provides a framework for critically evaluating existing
political systems and practices. It encourages discussions about what is lacking in
current political arrangements and how they can be improved.
o For instance, normative theorists might critique a political system for failing to
ensure equal rights for marginalized groups.
Key Questions Addressed by the Normative Approach

1. Justice: What does justice mean in a political context? How can it be achieved?
o Example: John Rawls’ "Theory of Justice" posits that a fair society is one where
social and economic inequalities are arranged to benefit the least advantaged
members.
2. Rights: What rights should individuals possess, and how should they be protected?
o Example: The debate over universal human rights involves normative questions
about the universality and applicability of these rights across different cultures
and societies.

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3. Democracy: What constitutes a legitimate democracy? What are the essential features of
democratic governance?
o Example: Normative discussions about democracy might address the importance
of free and fair elections, political participation, and the rule of law.
4. Power: How should power be distributed in society? What mechanisms can ensure
accountability and prevent abuse of power?
o Example: Normative theorists may argue for specific institutional designs that
enhance checks and balances within government.
Illustrative Example
Consider the issue of healthcare access. A normative approach would not only describe the
current state of healthcare policy but would also engage with questions such as:
 What is a just healthcare system?
 Should healthcare be considered a universal right?
 How can we ensure equitable access for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic
status?
Through these inquiries, the normative approach provides a foundation for advocating changes
to existing policies and frameworks, aiming for a more just and equitable society.
2. Institutional Approach:
The institutional approach in political theory emphasizes the structures, organizations, and
processes of political institutions. It seeks to understand how these institutions shape political
behavior, decision-making, and policy outcomes. By focusing on the formal aspects of
governance, this approach provides insights into the functioning of political systems and their
impact on society.
Key Characteristics of the Institutional Approach

1. Focus on Institutions:
o The institutional approach centers on formal political institutions, such as
legislatures, executives, judiciaries, and administrative bodies. It examines how
these entities are structured, how they operate, and how they interact with each
other and with society.
o Institutions are seen as both constraints and facilitators of political behavior,
influencing the actions of political actors.
2. Analysis of Rules and Procedures:

o This approach pays close attention to the rules, norms, and procedures that govern
political interactions. It analyzes how these rules shape behavior, decision-
making processes, and the overall functioning of political systems.
o For example, the rules governing the electoral process can significantly impact
voter participation and representation.

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3. Emphasis on Context:
o The institutional approach recognizes that political institutions do not operate in a
vacuum; they are embedded in historical, cultural, and social contexts. This
context influences how institutions function and the outcomes they produce.
o For instance, the legacy of colonialism may affect the development of political
institutions in post-colonial states.
4. Comparative Analysis:
o Scholars using the institutional approach often engage in comparative analysis,
examining how different political systems work across various countries. This
comparison helps to identify patterns, similarities, and differences in institutional
design and performance.
o Such analysis can inform best practices and highlight the importance of context in
institutional effectiveness.
Key Questions Addressed by the Institutional Approach

1. How are institutions structured?
o Example: Analyzing the differences between presidential and parliamentary
systems and how these structures impact governance and accountability.
2. What roles do institutions play in shaping political behavior?

o Example: Investigating how electoral rules influence party competition and voter
turnout.
3. How do institutions evolve over time?

o Example: Studying the processes of institutional change, such as reforms in
electoral systems or changes in the judiciary.
4. What is the relationship between institutions and policy outcomes?

o Example: Exploring how the design of welfare institutions affects the delivery of
social services.
Consider the role of a legislature in a democratic system. The institutional approach would
analyze various aspects:
 Structure: It would examine whether the legislature is unicameral or bicameral and how
that structure influences representation and law-making.
 Rules: It would focus on legislative procedures, such as how bills are introduced,
debated, and passed, and how these rules impact the efficiency and transparency of the
legislative process.
 Context: The approach would take into account historical and cultural factors, such as
the impact of political parties and interest groups on legislative outcomes.
For instance, in a bicameral legislature, the presence of two chambers may lead to more
thorough debate and consideration of legislation, but it can also create bottlenecks in the law-
making process, affecting how swiftly policies are enacted

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3. Behavioural Approach:
The behavioural approach in political theory emphasizes the study of actual political behaviour
and actions of individuals and groups rather than focusing solely on formal institutions or
normative ideals. This approach seeks to understand how people engage with politics and the
factors that influence their political choices and behaviours.
Key Characteristics of the Behavioural Approach
Voter Behaviour: Studies how various factors, such as socioeconomic status, education, and
media influence voter choices.
Public Opinion: Analyzes how public sentiment shapes policy and
political outcomes.
1. Empirical Focus:
o The behavioural approach is grounded in empirical research. It relies on
observable data and aims to analyze political phenomena through systematic
observation and measurement.
o Researchers in this field often utilize surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis
to collect and interpret data about political behaviour.
2. Study of Individuals and Groups:

o This approach examines the actions, attitudes, motivations, and interactions of
political actors, including voters, political parties, interest groups, and politicians.
o It seeks to understand how these actors behave within various political contexts
and how their behaviour influences political outcomes.
3. Patterns and Trends:

o Behavioralists look for patterns and trends in political behaviour, attempting to
identify generalizable findings that can inform our understanding of politics.
o By analyzing data over time, scholars can reveal shifts in public opinion, voter
behaviour, and political participation.
4. Interdisciplinary Methods:
o The behavioural approach often incorporates methods from other disciplines,
such as psychology, sociology, and economics, to better understand the
complexities of political behaviour.
o For instance, psychological theories of motivation may be used to explain why
individuals participate in protests or vote in elections.
Key Questions Addressed by the Behavioural Approach

1. What influences voter behaviour?
o Example: Behavioralists might study how factors like age, income, education,
and social identity affect voting patterns in different elections.
2. How do political attitudes form and change?

o Example: Research may focus on how public opinion shifts in response to major
events, such as economic crises or social movements.

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3. What role do groups play in shaping political behaviour?

o Example: Analyzing how interest groups mobilize citizens around specific issues
and influence public policy.
4. How do political campaigns affect voter turnout?

o Example: Investigating the impact of campaign strategies, such as advertisements
and grassroots organizing, on voter engagement.
o Illustrative Example: The 2016 U.S. Presidential Election highlighted the role of
social media in shaping voter perceptions and behaviours. Studies showed that
misinformation spread on platforms like Facebook had a significant impact on
how voters made decisions, demonstrating the importance of understanding
behaviour in politics.
For instance, a study might reveal that younger voters are more likely to be influenced by social
media campaigns and that their turnout increases when friends or family members actively
encourage them to participate in elections.
What is Political Science?

Definition: Political Science is a social science that systematically studies the theory and
practice of politics, government systems, and political behaviour. It uses a variety of
methodologies to analyze political phenomena and to develop theories that explain how political
processes work.
Aims of Political Science

Political Science pursues several objectives that guide its research and scholarship:
 Understanding Political Principles: It seeks to unpack the principles underlying
political systems, such as authority, legitimacy, and governance. This understanding can
help identify the strengths and weaknesses of different political arrangements.
 Analyzing Political Behaviour: Researchers study the actions and interactions of

political actors, including voters, interest groups, and politicians. This analysis reveals
insights into how policies are created and implemented.
 Evaluating Policies: Political scientists assess the effectiveness of public policies by

examining their impacts on society. They analyze policy outcomes to inform better
governance.
 Developing Political Theories: The discipline contributes to the creation of political

theories that help explain phenomena and guide future action, fostering a deeper
understanding of political issues.
Scope of Political Science

Political Science encompasses a wide range of subfields, each focusing on different dimensions
of political life:

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1. Comparative Politics:
o This subfield compares different political systems and governments, analyzing
how various structures function in different contexts. For instance, it might
compare the welfare systems of Scandinavian countries with those of the United
States, exploring how cultural and historical factors influence policy choices.
2. International Relations:
o International Relations studies the interactions between states and global actors. It
addresses issues such as conflict, diplomacy, trade, and international
organizations. For example, the study of the United Nations focuses on how
international cooperation can prevent wars and promote peace.
3. Political Theory:
o This area delves into the philosophical underpinnings of politics. It examines
historical and contemporary political thought, questioning the nature of power,
justice, and the role of the state. For example, debates about the social contract—
how individuals consent to form societies—have shaped political philosophy for
centuries.
4. Public Administration:
o Public Administration analyzes how government agencies operate and how
policies are implemented. It studies bureaucratic processes and the challenges of
governance. For instance, effective disaster response relies on coordinated public
administration, highlighting the importance of efficiency in times of crisis.
5. Political Methodology:
o This subfield emphasizes the application of quantitative and qualitative research
methods to study political phenomena. It involves statistical analysis, surveys,
and case studies to draw conclusions about political behaviour and institutions.
For example, election forecasting uses statistical models to predict electoral
outcomes based on past data.
Relationship between Political Science and Law

The relationship between Political Science and Law is complex and interdependent, with each
field informing and influencing the other.
1. Theoretical Foundations:
o Political theories often provide the basis for legal frameworks. For example, the
principles of justice explored by theorists like Rawls have influenced the
development of laws promoting social equity. Theories regarding the nature of
rights directly inform human rights legislation.
2. Legal Institutions:
o Political Science examines the roles of legal institutions, such as courts and
legislative bodies. Understanding how these institutions function is crucial for
analyzing their impact on policy-making and governance. For instance, the U.S.
Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution can fundamentally alter the
landscape of American law and civil rights.

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School of Law
3. Policy Analysis:
o Political scientists analyze the consequences of laws and policies on society. They
evaluate whether laws achieve their intended outcomes and consider the social
implications of legal decisions. For example, studies on the effects of drug
decriminalization laws provide insights into public health outcomes and criminal
justice reform.
4. Rights and Governance:

o Legal studies emphasize the protection of rights, which is a central concern in
Political Science. The interplay between citizens and the state, mediated through
law, shapes the discourse on justice, equity, and accountability. Legal frameworks
establish the boundaries of state power and protect individual liberties.
5. Methodological Overlap:
o Both fields employ a variety of methodologies. Political scientists might conduct
legal analyses to understand how laws affect political dynamics, while legal
scholars may analyze political contexts to better understand legal principles. For
example, a political scientist might study voting rights legislation and its impact
on voter turnout
Conclusion
The interplay between politics, political theory, political science, and law creates a rich tapestry
that helps us understand the complexities of governance and societal organization. Each
approach and discipline contributes unique insights into how power, authority, and justice are
constructed and experienced in society. By examining these relationships, we gain a deeper
appreciation for the challenges of political life and the importance of informed and equitable
governance.
Sd/-
Ms. Sakshi Vashisth


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Chanderprabhu Jain College of Higher Studies

Paper Code : B.A.LL.B 111

Subject : Political Science I

Faculty Name : Ms. Sakshi Vashisth

What is Politics: Theorizing the ‘Political’

Key Elements of Politics

Approaches to Political Theory

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

Normative Approach in Political Theory

Key Characteristics of the Normative Approach

Key Questions Addressed by the Normative Approach

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

Key Characteristics of the Institutional Approach

2. Analysis of Rules and Procedures:

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

Key Questions Addressed by the Institutional Approach

2. What roles do institutions play in shaping political behavior?

3. How do institutions evolve over time?

4. What is the relationship between institutions and policy outcomes?

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

2. Study of Individuals and Groups:

3. Patterns and Trends:

Key Questions Addressed by the Behavioural Approach

2. How do political attitudes form and change?

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

3. What role do groups play in shaping political behaviour?

4. How do political campaigns affect voter turnout?

What is Political Science?

Aims of Political Science

 Analyzing Political Behaviour: Researchers study the actions and interactions of

 Evaluating Policies: Political scientists assess the effectiveness of public policies by

 Developing Political Theories: The discipline contributes to the creation of political

Scope of Political Science

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

Relationship between Political Science and Law

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

4. Rights and Governance:

Campus: Plot No. OCF, Sector A-8, Narela, Delhi-110040

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