Q1- What is Political Theory? Define its nature and importance.

Answer - Introduction

Political science is an ancient and contemporary subject, whose roots extend to great thinkers like Plato and Aristotle. The subject has constantly incorporated new content and new perspectives, thereby increasing its relevance and importance over time. 'Political theory' is made up of two words: 'political' and 'theory'. The word 'political' is derived from the Greek word 'polis', meaning city-state. The word 'theory' is derived from the Greek word 'theoria', meaning a state of contemplation and reflection.

Meaning of political theory: 

Political theory is a systematic study of ideas and institutions related to the state, government and society. It analyzes political processes, understands their impact, and presents a vision of an ideal state and society. Its purpose is to establish a better political system based on the principles of justice, freedom, equality and stability. Political mtheory is related to both political philosophy and political science, and its importance is because it makes policy making and governance fair and balanced.

Views of various thinkers on political theory:

Andrew Hacker: “Political theory is a combination of an unbiased search for a good state and society on the one hand and an unbiased understanding of political and social realities on the other.” 

David Held: "Political theory is a set of concepts and general speculations concerning political life, including accounts of the nature and goals of government, state, and society, in political capacities of human beings."

Political theory three major elements: observation, interpretation, and evaluation.

1. Observation :

• Political thinkers were dissatisfied with the politics of their time, so they presented ideas to improve it. For example, Plato, Machiavelli, Hobbes, and Marx presented their theories after analyzing their situations.
• Hobbes supported absolute monarchy while Lord Bryce studied in detail the functioning of democracy. Observation is the process of studying deeply the social and political conditions of the time, which helps a thinker to develop his theories.

2. Explanation :

• After observation, the facts and events are analyzed. In this process, the essential facts are grouped into categories by removing unnecessary information so that the cause and effect relationship can be understood.
• This leads to generalization, i.e. the findings are presented in a general form. The
  scientific validity of a theory depends on how objectively the facts have been selected and interpreted.

3. Value Judgement : 

Both facts and values are important in theory building. The political writer plays the role of both a scientist and a philosopher. He has to collect facts and determine his goals and ideals, such as democracy, freedom, equality and justice.

When he evaluates these values, he is influenced by his own interests and viewpoints. However, a thinker adopting a scientific approach unbiasedly establishes principles that are based on facts and scientific findings.

The nature of political theory:

Political theory has been changing and developing according to the circumstances of time and era. Many thinkers and philosophers have contributed to this development, who have created theories keeping in mind various social, economic and political circumstances. Political theory has taken three major forms in the course of development:-

1. Traditional political theory : 

Traditional, also known as idealistic political theory. This theory is based on idealistic ideas and imaginations that provide inspiration for structuring an ideal state or system of government. For example, Plato envisioned "Philosopher Kings" and presented the framework of an ideal state based on them. 

Plato's concept of "philosopher kings" is the basis of the ideal state presented in his treatise "The Republic". These rulers are adept in knowledge, reason, justice, and morality. They establish truth, equality, and social justice without any selfish motives

• Descriptive and solution-oriented studies : Traditional political thought has been mainly descriptive, in which only description of political institutions and problems was given. But some scholars also paid attention to the solutions of problems. For example, Machiavelli suggested practical measures to expand power and Hobbes supported autocratic monarchy to end anarchy.
• Influence of philosophy, religion and morality: Religion, philosophy and moral values have had a profound influence on traditional political theories. This influence is less in the works of Plato and Aristotle, but medieval Christianity influenced political thought extensively. Thinkers like Thomas Aquinas and William Occam considered religion superior to the state and made it the basis of political intervention.
• Legal and formal institutional studies: Under this theory, mainly legal structures and formal institutions were studied. This study was limited only to the structural aspects of institutions. Scholars like Laski and Monroe also emphasized on law and formal institutions in their works.

2. Modern political theory : 

• Valuelessness: Modern political science is often called "valueless" because it does not include human values such as morality, freedom, and fraternity in its analysis. Its main objective is to develop politics as an exact and scientific subject. In this study, only those facts and events are given priority that can be observed or experienced.
• Scientism: Modern political science began to analyse facts and events by adopting a scientific approach. It uses the techniques and methods of natural and social sciences. Political scientists try to make the study of politics more accurate and factual through mathematical, statistical and other scientific tools.
• Study Freedom : Modern political theory broke the traditional boundaries and made the study comprehensive and realistic (based on reality). Now it is not limited to historical or institutional studies only, but also includes subjects like sociology, economics, and psychology. Even the study of childhood, youth and other individual and collective political tendencies has become a part of it.

3. Contemporary political theory:

• Contemporary political theory emphasizes a deep understanding and analysis of politics. It not only blends philosophy and science, but also evaluates political concepts, institutions and events from a historical and moral perspective. Its main
  purpose is to structure the present and the future on the basis of past experiences.
• 'Brian Berry' presented a study of the deep interrelationship between institutions and principles in his book Political Argument (1965). Whereas, 'John Rawls' in his work A Theory of Justice (1971) described the continuous search for truth as the main task of political theory, in which methods based on scientific experience and
  logic are used. In contemporary political theory, it was considered that analysis of data, logic and ideas related to morality can be included in political principles.

Importance and Relevance of Political Theory

1. Understanding political institutions and processes: Political theory helps in understanding political institutions and their functions. It provides a scientific approach to understanding the functioning of various political structures, such as democracy, dictatorship, and federal system.

2. Preservation of the values of society: Political theory provides direction for preserving values such as justice, freedom, equality and human rights in society. And helps us understand how these values can be implemented in the future.

3. Guidance in political decisions: Political theory helps in understanding policies and decisions. It suggests to political thinkers the rationale behind political decisions and their social impact, thereby helping in the direction of good governance.

4. Use of Scientific Methods: Contemporary political theories, such as those of 'Brian Berry' and 'John Rawls', use scientific and empirical methods to understand political events and theories. This makes theories more practical and effective.

5. Solution of social problems: Political theory provides guidance for solving various problems present in the society such as inequality, conflict, and injustice. This theory is helpful in presenting just and stable solutions for the society

Conclusion

The evolution of political theory is an ongoing process. Emerging ideas such as NeoMarxism, Communitarianism, and Existentialism are enhancing its relevance. Political theory provides direction to society, government, and the constitution, while interpreting key concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and democracy. It also aids in understanding contemporary and future political challenges, thereby contributing to policymaking. 

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