Political Science MCQs
Topic Notes: Political Science
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
21
Which form of government is most historically associated with the Theory of the Divine Origin of the State?
Answer:
Absolute monarchy
The Theory of Divine Origin posits that the state is a divine institution created by God, and the ruler is God's representative on Earth. This theory was frequently used to justify absolute monarchy, as it asserted that the king was accountable only to God and not to the people. By claiming divine authority, monarchs sought to legitimize their absolute power and suppress dissent, arguing that disobedience to the king was disobedience to God.
22
Which political ideology posits that the state is inherently detrimental to human freedom and advocates for its abolition?
Answer:
Anarchists
Anarchism is a political philosophy that fundamentally rejects the legitimacy of the state. Anarchists argue that state power is inherently coercive and oppressive, hindering individual autonomy and social cooperation. They advocate for a society organized through voluntary associations and mutual aid, believing that human beings can effectively self-organize without the need for a centralized governing authority or hierarchical control.
23
How is the state characterized within the framework of classical liberal political theory?
Answer:
It is necessary evil
Classical liberalism views the state as a 'necessary evil.' It is considered necessary to protect individual rights, property, and maintain order, but an 'evil' because it inherently possesses coercive power that can infringe upon individual liberty if not strictly limited by constitutional constraints.
24
By what alternative name is the Idealist theory of the state commonly known?
Answer:
Metaphysical Theory
The Idealist theory, often associated with thinkers like Hegel and Green, is frequently referred to as the Metaphysical theory of the state. This is because it views the state as a moral entity that transcends the individual, often relying on abstract, philosophical, or metaphysical justifications for the state's existence and authority rather than purely empirical or contractual ones.
25
Which of the following is incorrectly identified as a criticism of the Divine Origin Theory of the state?
Answer:
It is not supported by history
The Divine Origin Theory posits that the state was created by God and the ruler is His representative. Critics argue that historical evidence does not support this, as states have evolved through human social processes. The option provided as the answer suggests it is not supported by history, which is actually a common and valid criticism, indicating a potential conflict with the provided answer key.
26
Which theory posits that the state is a direct creation or manifestation of divine will?
Answer:
Theory of Divine origin (E)
The Theory of Divine Origin suggests that the state is not a human invention but a divine institution created by God. It posits that rulers derive their authority directly from the divine, making them accountable only to God. This perspective was historically used to justify absolute monarchy and the sacred nature of political power, framing the state as a necessary instrument for maintaining order according to a higher, supernatural plan.
27
Which political theorist is primarily credited with articulating the foundational philosophy of 'the desire to conserve'?
Answer:
Edmund Burke
Edmund Burke is widely regarded as the father of modern conservatism. His seminal work, particularly 'Reflections on the Revolution in France', articulates the necessity of preserving established social institutions, traditions, and organic societal structures. While figures like Russell Kirk and Michael Oakeshott contributed significantly to conservative thought, Burke's emphasis on the 'desire to conserve' as a response to radical change remains the definitive historical reference point for this political concept.
28
Which theory regarding the origin of the state is currently considered the most widely accepted by political scientists?
Answer:
Evolutionary theory
The evolutionary theory (or historical theory) is widely accepted because it views the state as the result of a gradual, long-term process of development involving kinship, religion, war, and economic factors. Unlike the social contract or divine origin theories, which focus on specific moments of creation, the evolutionary theory accounts for the complex, organic growth of political institutions over time.
29
Which theory regarding the origin of the state most closely aligns with Darwinian principles of the survival of the fittest?
Answer:
Evolutionary theory
The evolutionary theory, also known as the historical theory, posits that the state is the result of a long, gradual process of development involving social, economic, and political factors. It suggests that institutions that were better adapted to the environment and social needs survived and evolved, mirroring the biological concept of natural selection and the survival of the fittest in a societal context.
30
Which scholar is primarily associated with the patriarchal theory regarding the origin of the state?
Answer:
Sir Henry Maine
Sir Henry Maine, in his work 'Ancient Law,' argued that the state evolved from the patriarchal family unit. According to this theory, the family was the original social unit, with the eldest male holding absolute authority. Over time, these families expanded into clans and tribes, eventually forming the state structure through the extension of this patriarchal authority.