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Political Science I
BA Part I (Old Registration)
Solved Past Paper 2024
Special Thanks To Miss Maham Rehman & Aلi Sheiخ
SOLUTION
Answer No.1:The statement "Political Science begins and ends with the state" is a traditional view that emphasizes the central role of the state in the study of political science. This perspective asserts that the state is the primary unit of analysis and the focal point of political science inquiry.
Nature of the statement:
- The statement reflects a state-centric approach, which prioritizes the study of the state and its institutions, processes, and policies.
- It implies that the state is the primary actor in political life, and other entities, such as civil society, international organizations, and markets, are secondary or peripheral.
Scope of the statement:
- The statement's scope is limited to a traditional understanding of political science, which focuses on the study of government, politics, and public policy within the context of the state.
- It neglects other important aspects of political science, such as:
* Political behavior and psychology
* Comparative politics and international relations
* Political economy and globalization
* Political culture and identity.
Critique:
- The statement is too narrow, as it overlooks the significance of non-state actors, global governance, and transnational phenomena in shaping political outcomes.
- It fails to account for the changing nature of the state and its relationships with other entities in the modern political landscape.
- The statement prioritizes the study of the state over other important areas of political science, such as political theory, public administration, and policy analysis.
In conclusion, the statement "Political Science begins and ends with the state" reflects a traditional, state-centric approach to political science. While the state remains an essential component of political science, the field has evolved to encompass a broader range of topics, actors, and perspectives, making the statement's scope and nature too limited and narrow.
Answer No. 2:
Here are the main features of Ibn Khaldun's theory of the Khilafat (Caliphate):
- The State as an End in Itself:
Ibn Khaldun views the state as an end in itself, with a life of its own, governed by the law of causality, a natural and necessary human institution. - Necessity of the State:
The state is the political and social unit that alone makes human civilization possible. - Civilization and Politics:
Ibn Khaldun's political theory is part of his description of ʿumrān, in the specific sense of “civilization”, which is synonymous with madanīya and ḥadāra, settled urban life. - Empiricism and Traditionalism:
Ibn Khaldun's empiricism, manifest in his “new science”, is matched by his traditionalism, as he draws on Islamic civilization and its aspects. - The Caliphate as a Political Institution:
Ibn Khaldun views the Caliphate as a political institution, which is part of his broader theory of the power-state and the study of civilization. - The Role of the Caliph: The Caliph should be a just and fair ruler, chosen for his wisdom and moral character, and responsible for upholding Islamic law and maintaining social justice.
- The Caliphate and Islamic Law:
The Caliphate is responsible for upholding Islamic law and maintaining social justice, reflecting Ibn Khaldun's emphasis on the importance of Islamic law in the functioning of the state. - The Caliphate and Social Order:
The Caliphate is seen as essential for maintaining social order and stability, reflecting Ibn Khaldun's concern with the preservation of social order and the prevention of chaos.
Answer No.3:
A political system refers to the set of institutions, structures, and processes that shape the political life of a society. It encompasses the formal and informal rules, norms, and procedures that govern political behavior, decision-making, and power distribution within a society.
System analysis is a method of studying political systems by examining their components, relationships, and interactions. This approach views the political system as a whole, rather than focusing on individual parts in isolation. System analysis involves:
- Identifying the components of the political system, such as:
* Government institutions (executive, legislative, judicial)
* Political parties and interest groups
* Bureaucracy and public administration
* Civil society and media - Analyzing the relationships between these components, including:
* Power dynamics and decision-making processes
* Communication and feedback loops
* Conflict and cooperation patterns - Examining the inputs and outputs of the political system, including:
* Public opinion and political culture
* Policy decisions and implementation
* Economic and social outcomes - Evaluating the performance of the political system, considering factors such as:
* Effectiveness and efficiency
* Legitimacy and accountability
* Stability and adaptability
References:
- David Easton, "A Systems Analysis of Political Life" (1965)
- Gabriel Almond, "A Functional Approach to Comparative Politics" (1966)
- Karl Deutsch, "The Nerves of Government" (1963)
Answer No.5:
The judiciary plays a vital role in a modern democratic state, serving as a cornerstone of the rule of law, democracy, and human rights. Its importance and roles include:
1. Interpreter of the Constitution and Laws:
The judiciary interprets the constitution, legislation, and regulations, ensuring that they are applied fairly and in accordance with the rule of law.
2. Guardian of Individual Rights:
The judiciary protects individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and religion, and ensures that the government does not overstep its authority.
3. Check on Executive and Legislative Power:
The judiciary acts as a check on the executive and legislative branches, preventing abuses of power and ensuring that they do not violate the constitution or laws.
4. Dispute Resolution:
The judiciary resolves disputes between citizens, organizations, and government entities, providing a fair and impartial forum for conflict resolution.
5. Ensuring Accountability:
The judiciary holds public officials and institutions accountable for their actions, preventing corruption and promoting transparency.
6. Upholding the Rule of Law:
The judiciary ensures that the rule of law prevails, maintaining social order and stability by enforcing laws and regulations.
7. Protector of Minority Rights:
The judiciary safeguards the rights of minority groups, ensuring that they are not marginalized or oppressed by the majority.
8. Promoting Justice and Fairness:
The judiciary strives to deliver justice and fairness in all cases, upholding the principles of equality and justice.
9. Ensuring Separation of Powers:
The judiciary maintains the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, preventing any one branch from dominating the others.
10. Enhancing Democracy:
The judiciary strengthens democracy by ensuring that the government and citizens alike are subject to the law, promoting democratic values and principles.
In summary, the judiciary plays a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law, protecting individual rights, and promoting democracy and accountability in a modern democratic state.
Answer No.8:
The legislature is a vital component of a modern state, responsible for making laws, overseeing the executive branch, and representing the people. Its primary functions include:
1. Lawmaking:
The legislature creates, amends, and repeals laws, shaping the legal framework of the state.
2. Oversight:
It exercises control over the executive branch, scrutinizing policies, budgets, and actions.
3. Representation:
Legislators represent the interests of their constituents, voicing their concerns and opinions.
4. Budgeting:
The legislature approves government spending and taxation, allocating resources for public policies.
5. Advice and Consent:
In some systems, the legislature provides advice and consent on executive appointments and treaties.
The structure of a legislature varies, but common features include:
1. Bicameralism:
A two-chamber system, comprising an upper house (e.g., Senate) and a lower house (e.g., House of Representatives).
2. Unicameralism:
A single-chamber system, where all members sit in one house.
3. Parliamentary System:
The legislature is divided into political parties, with the majority party forming the government.
4. Congressional System:
A separate executive branch exists, with the legislature focusing on lawmaking and oversight.
5. Committee System:
Legislators are organized into committees, specializing in specific policy areas.
6. Leadership:
A speaker or president leads the legislature, managing debates and proceedings.
7. Members:
Legislators are elected or appointed to represent constituencies, serving fixed terms.
The legislature's structure and functions may vary depending on the country's political system, constitution, and historical context. Effective legislatures play a crucial role in ensuring accountability, representation, and good governance in modern states.
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