Question Details
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Aspect |
Details |
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Programme Title |
BACHELOR OF ARTS POLITICAL SCIENCE HONOURS (BAPSH) |
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Course Code |
BPSC-105 |
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Course Title |
INTRODUCTION TO COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS |
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Assignment Code |
BPSC-105 |
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University |
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) |
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Type |
Free IGNOU Solved Assignment |
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Language |
English |
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Session |
July 2023 – January 2024 |
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Submission Date |
31st March for July session, 30th September for January session |
BPSC-105 Solved Assignment 2024
Assignment – I
Answer the following in about 500 words each. Each question carries
- Describe how the nature, field and scope of comparative politics have evolved in response to the changing socio-political concerns over different historical periods.
- Examine the meaning and evolution of the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy.
Assignment – II
Answer the following questions in about 250 words each. Each question carries 10 marks.
- What are the major challenges confronting the Chinese Communist Party in contemporary times? Explain.
- Explain the doctrine of rule of law. How does it act as a constraint on the powers of the government?
- What are the development strategies adopted by Brazil since its independence? Elaborate.
Assignment – III
Write a short note on the following in about 100 words each. Each short note carries 6 marks.
- Federalism in Nigeria
- Deutsch’s cybernetics theory
- Wallerstein’s World System analysis
- Dictatorship of the proletariat
- The concept of dependent development.
Expert Answer
Question:-1
Describe how the nature, field and scope of comparative politics have evolved in response to the changing socio-political concerns over different historical periods.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Comparative Politics
Comparative politics is a subfield of political science that involves the systematic study and comparison of political systems, institutions, processes, and behaviors across different countries. The field aims to identify patterns, test theories, and understand the dynamics of political power and governance in various contexts. Over time, comparative politics has evolved significantly, adapting to new socio-political concerns and methodological advancements. This evolution reflects changes in the global political landscape, as well as shifts in academic paradigms and research priorities.
2. Early Foundations of Comparative Politics
In its early stages, comparative politics was primarily concerned with the study of formal political institutions, such as constitutions, parliaments, and electoral systems. This period, often referred to as the "traditional" phase of comparative politics, focused on understanding the structures and functions of governments, often using a descriptive and normative approach. The primary goal was to categorize political systems and assess their performance based on criteria derived from Western political thought, such as democracy, stability, and efficiency. During this period, the study of comparative politics was heavily influenced by the experiences and political models of Europe and North America.
3. Behavioral Revolution and the Expansion of Scope
The mid-20th century marked a significant shift in the field of comparative politics with the advent of the behavioral revolution. This movement, which emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, emphasized the importance of studying political behavior rather than merely focusing on formal institutions. Researchers began to analyze the behavior of individuals and groups, including voters, political parties, interest groups, and social movements. This shift expanded the scope of comparative politics to include the study of political culture, public opinion, political participation, and the role of ideology. The behavioral revolution introduced new methodologies, such as survey research and statistical analysis, allowing for more empirical and systematic comparisons across different political systems.
4. The Impact of Decolonization and the Study of Developing Countries
The post-World War II era and the subsequent wave of decolonization had a profound impact on the field of comparative politics. As numerous countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America gained independence from colonial rule, there was a growing interest in studying the political systems and development trajectories of these newly independent states. Comparative politics began to focus more on issues related to state-building, nation-building, political instability, and economic development. Scholars started to examine the challenges faced by developing countries, such as poverty, corruption, authoritarianism, and ethnic conflict, leading to a more diverse and inclusive understanding of political phenomena beyond the Western context.
5. The Rise of Structuralism and Dependency Theory
In the 1970s and 1980s, the field of comparative politics saw the emergence of structuralist approaches and dependency theory. These theoretical frameworks challenged the modernization paradigm, which had previously dominated the study of political development. Structuralism emphasized the role of social, economic, and historical structures in shaping political outcomes, while dependency theory focused on the unequal power relations between developed and developing countries in the global economy. Scholars using these approaches analyzed how global capitalism, colonial legacies, and social class dynamics influenced the political systems and development paths of different countries. This period marked a shift towards more critical and interdisciplinary approaches in comparative politics, integrating insights from sociology, economics, and history.
6. The Third Wave of Democratization and the Study of Regime Transitions
The late 20th century witnessed a wave of democratization, often referred to as the "Third Wave," which began in the 1970s and continued into the 1990s. This period saw a significant increase in the number of democratic transitions around the world, particularly in Southern Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Eastern Europe. In response to this global trend, comparative politics scholars focused extensively on the study of regime transitions, democratization processes, and the consolidation of democracy. Researchers examined the factors that facilitated or hindered democratic change, such as the role of civil society, political elites, international influences, and economic conditions. This era also saw the development of various theories and models of democratization, highlighting the diversity of pathways and outcomes in political transitions.
7. Post-Cold War Era and the New Challenges
With the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the field of comparative politics entered a new phase. The post-Cold War era presented new challenges and opportunities for comparative analysis, as scholars began to explore the implications of globalization, regional integration, and the rise of new political and economic powers. The focus shifted towards understanding the complexities of hybrid regimes, democratic backsliding, and the resurgence of nationalism and populism in various parts of the world. Additionally, the study of comparative politics expanded to include issues related to human rights, environmental politics, gender, and migration, reflecting the growing importance of global and transnational dynamics in shaping domestic political outcomes.
8. Methodological Innovations and the Rise of Mixed Methods
In recent decades, the field of comparative politics has witnessed significant methodological innovations, with the rise of mixed-methods research combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. Researchers increasingly use case studies, process tracing, experiments, and formal modeling to gain a deeper understanding of political phenomena. The integration of big data, geographic information systems (GIS), and computational methods has also enhanced the ability to analyze complex political processes across different contexts. These methodological advancements have contributed to a more rigorous and nuanced understanding of comparative politics, allowing scholars to address new research questions and explore previously understudied areas.
Conclusion
The evolution of comparative politics reflects the changing socio-political concerns and methodological developments over different historical periods. From its early focus on formal institutions and Western-centric models, the field has expanded to encompass a wide range of topics, including political behavior, development, democratization, globalization, and transnational issues. This evolution has been driven by the need to adapt to the shifting realities of the global political landscape and to develop more comprehensive and inclusive frameworks for understanding political systems and processes. As the field continues to evolve, comparative politics remains a vital area of study for analyzing the diverse and dynamic nature of political life across the world.
Question:-2
Examine the meaning and evolution of the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Parliamentary Supremacy
Parliamentary supremacy, also known as parliamentary sovereignty, is a fundamental principle in the constitutional law of some countries, particularly in the United Kingdom. It denotes that Parliament is the supreme legal authority, capable of creating or ending any law. In a system where parliamentary supremacy is fully operational, no other body, including the judiciary or executive, can challenge the laws passed by Parliament. This doctrine has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in political power, societal values, and constitutional developments.
2. Historical Foundations of Parliamentary Supremacy
The origins of parliamentary supremacy can be traced back to the early development of the British constitutional system. Historically, the English Parliament evolved from a council of advisors to the monarch into a representative institution with legislative authority. The struggle for power between the monarchy and Parliament in the 17th century, particularly during the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution of 1688, played a crucial role in establishing Parliament’s supremacy. The Glorious Revolution resulted in the Bill of Rights 1689, which asserted the superiority of Parliament over the monarchy, laying the groundwork for the modern understanding of parliamentary supremacy.
3. The Classical Doctrine of Parliamentary Supremacy
The classical doctrine of parliamentary supremacy is best articulated by the 19th-century legal theorist A.V. Dicey in his seminal work, "Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution." Dicey defined parliamentary supremacy as having two main components: first, that Parliament has the right to make or unmake any law, and second, that no person or body has the right to override or set aside the legislation of Parliament. According to Dicey, this meant that Parliament could legislate on any subject matter and that its laws could not be challenged in court. This absolute nature of parliamentary supremacy was a cornerstone of the British legal system and was seen as essential for maintaining democratic governance.
4. The Evolution of Parliamentary Supremacy in the 20th Century
The 20th century saw significant changes in the application and interpretation of parliamentary supremacy, largely influenced by social, political, and legal developments. The expansion of the welfare state and the rise of human rights awareness led to increased scrutiny of the laws passed by Parliament. Additionally, the process of decolonization after World War II and the emergence of new states with their own legal systems challenged the universality of the doctrine. The creation of the European Economic Community (later the European Union) in 1957 and the UK’s accession in 1973 also introduced a supranational legal order that could, in some cases, take precedence over national legislation, further complicating the concept of parliamentary supremacy.
5. Impact of the European Union on Parliamentary Supremacy
The UK’s membership in the European Union (EU) significantly impacted the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy. EU law, under the principle of supremacy, took precedence over national law in areas covered by EU competencies. This meant that the UK Parliament was no longer the highest legal authority in all matters. The landmark case of Factortame in 1990 exemplified this shift, where the House of Lords, the UK’s highest court at the time, disapplied an Act of Parliament that was found to be contrary to EU law. This demonstrated a clear limitation on parliamentary sovereignty, showing that UK laws could be overridden by European law, fundamentally altering the traditional understanding of parliamentary supremacy.
6. Devolution and Parliamentary Supremacy
Another development that has influenced the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy is the devolution of powers to regional assemblies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Devolution has created a more complex legal landscape within the UK, where different legislative bodies have the power to make laws in certain areas. Although the UK Parliament retains the power to legislate on all matters, including those devolved to regional assemblies, in practice, it rarely exercises this power without the consent of the devolved legislatures. This respect for devolved competencies represents a pragmatic limitation on parliamentary supremacy, acknowledging the political reality of devolution and the autonomy of regional governments.
7. The Human Rights Act 1998 and Parliamentary Supremacy
The introduction of the Human Rights Act 1998 marked another significant shift in the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy in the UK. The Act incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) into domestic law, requiring UK courts to interpret legislation in a manner compatible with the rights outlined in the Convention. While the Human Rights Act does not allow courts to strike down Acts of Parliament, it does enable them to issue a "declaration of incompatibility," indicating that a particular law is incompatible with the ECHR. Although such declarations do not invalidate the law, they exert significant political pressure on Parliament to amend the offending legislation, thereby indirectly challenging the absolute nature of parliamentary supremacy.
8. Brexit and the Reassertion of Parliamentary Supremacy
The UK’s decision to leave the European Union, commonly referred to as Brexit, has reignited discussions about parliamentary supremacy. Proponents of Brexit argued that leaving the EU would restore the UK Parliament’s sovereignty, free from the constraints of European law. The enactment of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, which repealed the European Communities Act 1972 and ended the supremacy of EU law in the UK, was seen as a reassertion of parliamentary sovereignty. However, the complex process of Brexit and the need to negotiate new international agreements have highlighted the challenges of maintaining absolute parliamentary supremacy in an interconnected world, where domestic laws often intersect with international obligations.
9. Contemporary Understanding of Parliamentary Supremacy
In the contemporary context, the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy is no longer viewed in the absolute terms described by Dicey. Instead, it is understood as a more nuanced and flexible principle that operates within a framework of legal and political constraints. These constraints include international law, human rights obligations, devolution, and the realities of a globalized world. While Parliament remains the supreme legal authority within the UK, its sovereignty is exercised within a complex web of relationships that require negotiation, compromise, and respect for other sources of authority. This modern interpretation of parliamentary supremacy reflects the evolving nature of constitutional governance and the need to balance national sovereignty with broader legal and political considerations.
Conclusion
The doctrine of parliamentary supremacy has undergone significant evolution since its inception, adapting to changing socio-political contexts and legal developments. While it remains a fundamental principle of the UK constitution, its application and interpretation have been shaped by historical events, international obligations, and domestic reforms. The modern understanding of parliamentary supremacy recognizes the limitations imposed by devolution, human rights law, and international agreements, highlighting the dynamic and adaptable nature of constitutional principles in response to the complexities of contemporary governance. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the doctrine of parliamentary supremacy will likely continue to adapt, reflecting the ongoing negotiation between national sovereignty and global interdependence.
Question:-3
What are the major challenges confronting the Chinese Communist Party in contemporary times? Explain.
Answer:
Major Challenges Confronting the Chinese Communist Party in Contemporary Times
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) faces several significant challenges in contemporary times as it navigates the complexities of governing a rapidly changing society and economy. One of the foremost challenges is economic transition and stability. China’s economic model, which has been heavily reliant on manufacturing and exports, is showing signs of strain. The CCP is under pressure to transition to a more sustainable, consumption-driven economy while maintaining high growth rates. This transition is further complicated by the ongoing trade tensions with major economies like the United States and the broader global economic slowdown.
Another major challenge is political legitimacy and governance. As China grows more prosperous and its citizens become better educated and more connected globally, there is increasing demand for political participation, transparency, and accountability. The CCP maintains its authority through strict control over political expression, media, and civil society, but this approach has been criticized for stifling innovation and causing social unrest. The party’s legitimacy is also threatened by internal corruption, which has led to widespread public discontent despite President Xi Jinping’s extensive anti-corruption campaign.
Social issues also present a significant challenge for the CCP. The rapid pace of economic growth has led to increased inequality, both between urban and rural areas and among different regions. There are also demographic pressures due to an aging population, a shrinking workforce, and the lingering effects of the one-child policy. These issues threaten social stability, which is a core concern for the CCP, especially in maintaining its grip on power.
Lastly, the CCP faces geopolitical challenges. As China asserts itself on the global stage, it encounters resistance from other major powers concerned about its growing influence. Issues like the South China Sea disputes, the Taiwan question, and relations with the U.S. and neighboring countries require careful handling to avoid international conflicts while projecting strength.
In summary, the CCP’s major challenges are deeply intertwined with economic transformation, political control, social stability, and international relations. Addressing these issues requires a delicate balance between reform and maintaining the party’s authority.
Question:-4
Explain the doctrine of rule of law. How does it act as a constraint on the powers of the government?
Answer:
The Doctrine of Rule of Law and Its Constraints on Government Powers
The doctrine of the rule of law is a foundational principle in democratic societies that asserts that all individuals, institutions, and entities, including the government, are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated. It emphasizes that no one is above the law and that laws should be applied consistently without arbitrary power.
At its core, the rule of law is designed to prevent the abuse of power and ensure fairness in the administration of justice. This doctrine is based on several key principles: legal equality, which means everyone is subject to the same laws; transparency, which requires laws to be clear, publicized, and stable; and accountability, which mandates that laws are applied by impartial and independent institutions.
The rule of law acts as a constraint on government powers by establishing legal boundaries within which all government actions must occur. This means that government authorities cannot act arbitrarily or exceed their legal authority; instead, they must operate according to pre-established laws and procedures. For example, if a government official takes action that violates constitutional rights or legal statutes, that action can be challenged in court, and the rule of law ensures that the judiciary has the authority to review and, if necessary, nullify the action.
Furthermore, the rule of law protects citizens’ rights by providing legal avenues to challenge governmental abuse and ensuring due process. It requires that laws are not only enforced but also fair and just, providing protection against discrimination, corruption, and arbitrary governance.
In summary, the rule of law serves as a vital check on government power, ensuring that it operates within a framework of legal constraints that protect individual freedoms and maintain justice. It upholds the balance of power, prevents the concentration of authority, and promotes trust in the legal and political systems by ensuring that all actions by the government are conducted within the confines of established legal principles.
Question:-5
What are the development strategies adopted by Brazil since its independence? Elaborate.
Answer:
Development Strategies Adopted by Brazil Since Its Independence
Since gaining independence from Portugal in 1822, Brazil has employed various development strategies to promote economic growth and social progress. These strategies have evolved over time, reflecting the country’s changing political landscapes, economic needs, and global influences.
Early Post-Independence Period: In the early years following independence, Brazil’s economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, particularly the export of commodities like sugar, coffee, and rubber. The government’s strategy was focused on maintaining this export-led growth model, relying on foreign investment and slave labor, which lasted until the late 19th century.
Industrialization and Import Substitution: In the mid-20th century, Brazil shifted its development strategy towards industrialization, largely through a policy known as Import Substitution Industrialization (ISI). This approach aimed to reduce dependence on foreign goods by promoting domestic production. The government implemented protective tariffs, offered subsidies, and invested in state-owned enterprises to build a robust industrial base. This period saw significant growth in sectors like steel, automotive, and petrochemicals.
Economic Liberalization and Market Reforms: By the late 1980s and early 1990s, Brazil’s economy faced challenges, including hyperinflation and a debt crisis. In response, the government adopted a new development strategy focused on economic liberalization and market reforms. This era, marked by the Plano Real of 1994, involved stabilizing the currency, reducing inflation, and implementing structural reforms such as privatization of state-owned enterprises and opening up the economy to foreign trade and investment.
Social Inclusion and Sustainable Development: In the 2000s, Brazil’s development strategy included a stronger emphasis on social inclusion and sustainable development. Programs like Bolsa Família aimed to reduce poverty and inequality by providing conditional cash transfers to low-income families. Additionally, the government promoted sustainable practices, particularly in managing the Amazon rainforest and other natural resources, to balance economic development with environmental protection.
Challenges and Current Strategies: Recently, Brazil has faced economic and political challenges, including recession and corruption scandals. The government’s current development strategies focus on economic recovery, fiscal responsibility, and addressing social inequalities. Efforts include reforms to improve the business environment, invest in infrastructure, and enhance social programs to promote inclusive growth.
In summary, Brazil’s development strategies have evolved from an export-led model to industrialization, market liberalization, and more recently, a focus on social inclusion and sustainability. These strategies reflect Brazil’s ongoing efforts to navigate complex economic, social, and environmental challenges.
Question:-6
Write a short note on Federalism in Nigeria.
Answer:
Federalism in Nigeria
Federalism in Nigeria refers to the system of governance in which power is constitutionally divided between a central government and various regional governments, known as states. Nigeria adopted a federal structure upon gaining independence from Britain in 1960 to accommodate its diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious groups.
Nigeria’s federal system is characterized by a strong central government and 36 states, each with its own executive, legislature, and judiciary. This structure aims to balance the need for national unity with regional autonomy, allowing states to manage local affairs while the federal government handles national issues such as defense, foreign policy, and economic planning.
However, Nigerian federalism faces several challenges. These include conflicts over resource allocation, especially concerning oil revenues, which are primarily generated in the Niger Delta region. There are also issues related to ethnic and religious tensions, which sometimes lead to demands for greater regional autonomy or restructuring of the federation.
Despite these challenges, federalism remains a fundamental aspect of Nigeria’s political landscape. It seeks to manage the country’s diversity while fostering unity and development through shared governance. Continuous dialogue and reforms are necessary to address the complexities and ensure the effective functioning of federalism in Nigeria.
Question:-7
Write a short note on Deutsch’s cybernetics theory.
Answer:
Deutsch’s Cybernetics Theory
Karl Deutsch’s cybernetics theory, introduced in the mid-20th century, applies the principles of cybernetics—originally a field of study focused on control and communication in animals and machines—to the realm of political science and social systems. Deutsch’s theory emphasizes the importance of information flow, feedback loops, and control mechanisms within political systems, viewing these systems as analogous to self-regulating machines.
According to Deutsch, effective political systems are those that can process information efficiently, adapt to changes, and maintain stability through feedback. He argued that just like a machine relies on feedback to correct errors and maintain its desired state, political systems depend on feedback from their citizens and institutions to correct policies, address public needs, and ensure governance aligns with societal goals.
Deutsch’s work highlights the importance of communication and information processing in maintaining political order and stability. It suggests that a well-functioning democracy, for instance, requires a continuous and open exchange of information between the government and its citizens, enabling it to respond to changing conditions and demands effectively.
Overall, Deutsch’s cybernetics theory has contributed to our understanding of political systems as dynamic entities that rely on information and feedback for stability and adaptability.
Question:-8
Write a short note on Wallerstein’s World System analysis.
Answer:
Wallerstein’s World System Analysis
Immanuel Wallerstein’s World System Analysis is a theoretical framework that examines global economic and social systems as interconnected entities rather than as isolated nation-states. Developed in the 1970s, Wallerstein’s theory divides the world into three primary categories: the core, the periphery, and the semi-periphery.
The core consists of developed countries with advanced economies that dominate global trade and have strong state institutions. These nations often exploit the periphery—less developed countries with weaker economies and governance structures—by extracting raw materials and labor at low costs. The semi-periphery includes countries that fall between the core and the periphery, possessing characteristics of both and often acting as a buffer zone between the two.
Wallerstein’s analysis challenges traditional views of economic development, arguing that the global capitalist system inherently creates and maintains inequalities between these zones. The theory highlights the systemic exploitation and dependency that hinder the economic progress of peripheral countries while perpetuating the wealth and dominance of core countries.
World System Analysis has been influential in understanding global inequalities and the dynamics of power in the international economic system, emphasizing the importance of historical and structural factors in shaping economic and social outcomes worldwide.
Question:-9
Write a short note on the dictatorship of the proletariat.
Answer:
Dictatorship of the Proletariat
The dictatorship of the proletariat is a Marxist concept that refers to a transitional state between the overthrow of capitalism and the establishment of a classless, communist society. In this context, "dictatorship" does not imply authoritarian rule by a single leader but rather the dominance of the working class (proletariat) over the former ruling classes (bourgeoisie).
According to Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, after a proletarian revolution dismantles the capitalist state, the dictatorship of the proletariat would serve as a necessary phase to suppress counter-revolutionary elements and reorganize society along socialist lines. This period would involve the redistribution of resources, the abolition of private property, and the dismantling of capitalist institutions to eliminate class distinctions.
The goal of this dictatorship is to prevent a return to capitalist exploitation and to create the conditions for the eventual "withering away of the state." Once class antagonisms have been abolished, and a truly communist society has been achieved, the state, as an instrument of class oppression, would become obsolete.
The concept has been interpreted and implemented in various ways throughout history, notably during the Russian Revolution of 1917, but it remains a subject of debate and contention within Marxist and socialist thought.
Question:-10
Write a short note on the concept of dependent development.
Answer:
The Concept of Dependent Development
Dependent development is a concept within dependency theory that describes how economic growth in developing countries is shaped and constrained by their relationships with more developed nations. Unlike the traditional view that developing countries can follow the same path to prosperity as developed nations, dependent development emphasizes the structural inequalities in the global economy that limit the autonomy and potential growth of less developed countries.
Developed by scholars like Fernando Henrique Cardoso and Enzo Faletto, dependent development suggests that while economic development is possible in peripheral or semi-peripheral countries, it occurs in a manner that reinforces their dependence on core nations. This dependence often manifests through unequal trade relationships, foreign investments, and multinational corporations that control key sectors of the economy in developing countries.
While dependent development can lead to industrialization and growth, it typically benefits a small local elite and foreign investors rather than fostering broad-based development. Additionally, it often results in economic vulnerabilities, such as reliance on volatile global markets or external debt.
In essence, the concept of dependent development highlights the limitations and constraints imposed by the global capitalist system on developing countries, emphasizing the need for alternative development strategies that reduce dependency and promote more equitable growth.
