# Political Science Archive

> Political Science and International Relations


## Posts

- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 11 — Power and Authority (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-11-power-and-authority/): Introduction Power is the most fundamental concept in the whole of political science. H.D. Lasswell and A. Kaplan: “The concept of power is perhaps the most fundamental in the whole of political science: the political process is the shaping, dissolution and exercise of power.” Key statements on power’s centrality: Andrew Heywood (Political Theory: An Introduction, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 10 — State and Civil Society (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-10-state-and-civil-society/): Introduction The concept of state occupies a central place in Political Science. The state touches every aspect of human life and has captured the attention of political philosophers since Plato. Understanding the state merely as an administrative machinery is to know only one aspect of it. Its full meaning emerges when understood in relation to […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 9 — Sovereignty (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-9-sovereignty-complete-notes/): Introduction State authority — the power to make laws, demand obedience, and punish violations — is what we encounter as sovereignty in everyday life. Despite appearing simple, sovereignty is one of the most complicated notions in Political Science. A rudimentary understanding is insufficient because state power is not merely theoretical — it directly affects citizens […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 8 — Citizenship (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-8-citizenship-complete-notes/): Introduction Citizenship denotes membership of a political community — a distinctive relation shared among relative equals in public life, conferring rights and privileges and generating duties and obligations. Societies such as ancient Greece, Rome, and medieval European city-states gave definitive legal and political expression to this relation. With the rise of modern liberal states, citizenship […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 7 — Idea of Duty (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-7-idea-of-duty-complete-notes/): Introduction Rights discourse has been among the most prominent features of contemporary political philosophy — it argues that persons, mainly as individuals, are bearers of claims, liberties, and powers which the rest of society must acknowledge. This exaltation of rights has created deep unease regarding duties and obligations necessary for maintaining a just social order. […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 6 — Justice (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-6-justice-complete-notes/): Introduction Justice is of central importance in political practice and theory — invoked in defending or opposing laws, public policies, administrative decisions, civil disobedience, and satyagraha campaigns. The civil rights, civil liberties, dalit, feminist, and environmental movements are all essentially movements for justice. Justice is widely regarded as the first virtue of social institutions — […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 5 — Equality (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-5-equality-complete-notes/): Introduction Equality is among the most confusing and baffling concepts of social, economic, moral, and political philosophy because it figures in all other concepts — justice, liberty, rights, property, etc. Over two thousand years, Greeks, Stoics, and Christian fathers each stressed different aspects. Under the impact of liberalism and Marxism, equality acquired new connotations. Contemporary […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 4 — Liberty (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-4-liberty-complete-notes/): Introduction Gerald MacCallum (1967) defined liberty as a triadic concept — the freedom of an individual X, from an obstacle A, to do B. In other words, X is not restrained by A from doing B. MacCallum argued it was misleading to divide theorists into advocates of negative or positive liberty since all three terms […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 3 — Rights (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-3-rights-complete-notes/): Introduction Rights are social claims that help individuals attain their best selves and develop their personalities. A democratic government can best serve the people by maintaining a system of rights. States never give rights, they only recognise them; governments never grant rights, they only protect them. Rights emanate from society and from peculiar social conditions […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 2 — Democracy (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-2-democracy-complete-notes/): Introduction: The Origins of the Democratic Ideal Etymology: Greek demokratia = demos (people) + kratos (rule) → government in which the people rule, either directly (through personal participation) or indirectly (through elected representatives). Ancient vs. Modern democracy: The key difference lies in how “the people” were defined. In the ancient Greek polity, demos was restrictively […]
- [Why Study Political Theory? Tasks, Significance, and Uses](https://polsciarchive.in/why-study-political-theory-task-significance-uses/): Political theory is not an easy or simple enterprise — it is, as John Plamenatz insists, “an elaborate, rigorous, difficult and useful understanding, as much needed as any of science.” The case for studying it rests on a foundational recognition: neither philosophy nor science holds a privileged cognitive status within political theory. All political philosophy […]
- [Evolution of Political Theory: Classical, Modern, and Contemporary](https://polsciarchive.in/evolution-of-political-theory-classical-modern/): Political theory has not evolved in a straight line — it has moved through genuine ruptures, reversals, and syntheses. Three broad streams define its trajectory: classical political theory, dominated by philosophy and ethical vision; modern political theory, driven by science and empirical method; and contemporary political theory, which attempts to integrate the insights of both […]
- [Nature of Political Theory: History, Philosophy, and Science](https://polsciarchive.in/nature-of-political-theory-history-science-phil/): Political theory is neither purely historical nor purely scientific nor purely philosophical — it is all three, in carefully calibrated measure. Its nature is best understood not by fixing it within a single disciplinary boundary but by tracing the three dimensions that give it depth: history supplies its base, philosophy its direction, and science its […]
- [What is Political Theory? Meaning, Nature, Evolution, and Key Thinkers](https://polsciarchive.in/what-is-political-theory-meaning-nature-evolution/): Political theory refers to the disciplined, systematic investigation of what is “political” — encompassing the nature of the state, government, power, justice, and human political behaviour. It is simultaneously a science, a philosophy, and a framework for evaluation. As Andrew Hacker observes, political theory “in ideal terms, is dispassionate and disinterested” — as science it […]
- [An Introduction to Political Theory Through Indian Lens](https://polsciarchive.in/what-is-political-theory-through-an-indian-lens/): When the Supreme Court declared privacy a fundamental right in the 2017 Puttaswamy judgment, the judges were not merely interpreting Article 21. They were asking something far older and more fundamental: What does individual dignity mean? How do we balance state surveillance with personal freedom? What kind of political community do we want to be? […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 UNIT 19 — Political Regimes (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-19-political-regimes-complete-simplified-notes/): 19.1 INTRODUCTION 19.2 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF POLITICAL REGIMES For comparative politics, a general framework is needed to classify regimes and identify similarities/differences. According to Macridis (systems theorist perspective), a regime must: All regimes perform these functions in varying degrees and are assessed accordingly. 19.3 FUNCTIONING OF A POLITICAL REGIME Four major interacting processes characterise regime […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 18 — Ethnic Movements (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-18-ethnic-movements-complete-simplified-notes/): 18.1 Introduction 18.2 Ethnonationalism Three types of ethnic minority groups in states: 18.3 Factors Responsible for Ethnic Movements 18.3.1 Modernisation and Ethnicity 18.3.2 Political Economy 18.3.3 Relative Deprivation 18.3.4 Ethnicity and Resource Competition 18.3.5 Elite Competition 18.3.6 Internal Colonialism 18.3.7 Cultural Deprivation 18.3.8 External Factors 18.4 Ethnic Movements Two simultaneous post-WWII processes in multi-ethnic societies: […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 17 — Politics of Community Identities (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-17-politics-of-community-identities-complete-simplified-notes/): 17.1 Introduction 17.2 Definition and Structure of Community Identities 17.2.1 What are Community Identities? 17.2.2 Structure of Community Identities 17.2.3 Features of Community Identity 17.3 Causes of Identity Consciousness and Conflicts Twelve major causes: i) Colonialism: ii) Role of Religious Movements: iii) Irrational and Hard Inter-State Borders: iv) Emergence of Modern Big State and Loss […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 16 — Ethnicity, Politics and State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-16-ethnicity-politics-and-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 16.1 Introduction 16.2 Ethnicity: Meaning 16.2.1 Characteristics of Ethnic Groups 16.2.2 Ethnicity 16.3 Ethnicity and State 16.4 Assimilation and Integration (Melting Pot Model) 16.5 Pluralism 16.5.1 Multiculturalism Criticisms of Multiculturalism: Kymlicka’s defence: 16.6 Power Sharing 16.6.1 Federalism Criticisms of Federalism: Defence (Daniel J. Elazar): 16.6.2 Consociationalism Four basic elements of consociational democracy (Lijphart): Criticisms of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 15 — State and Constitutionalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-15-state-and-constitutionalism-complete-simplified-notes/): 15.1 Introduction 15.2 State Building 15.2.1 The Instrumental Requirements 15.2.2 States in History 15.2.3 The Value of the Almond-Powell Schema 15.3 Constitutionalism 15.3.1 Origins 15.3.2 Meaning of Constitutionalism 15.4 Models of Constitutions 15.4.1 The British Model 15.4.2 The US Model 15.4.3 The Continental Systems 15.4.4 The Evolutionary Mode of Constitution Making 15.4.5 The Revolutionary Mode […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 14 — Nationality and Self-Determination (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-14-nationality-and-self-determination-complete-simplified-notes/): 14.1 Introduction J.S. Mill (Representative Government, 1861): ‘Where the sentiment of nationality exists in any force there is a prima facie case for uniting all the members of the nationality under the same government.’ — setting out the agenda for the right to self-determination. Mill also argued that free institutions are ‘next to impossible’ in […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 13 — Colonialism and Anti-Colonial Struggles (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-13-colonialism-and-anti-colonial-struggles-complete-simplified-notes/): 13.1 Introduction The period from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century is called ‘the age of modern imperialism’ by modern historians. The term ‘imperialism’ was coined by Benjamin Disraeli in 1872 in the context of the British general election of 1874. Chief critics of imperialism: J.A. Hobson (British liberal) and V.I. Lenin (Russian […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 12 — Forms of Nationalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-12-forms-of-nationalism-complete-simplified-notes/): 12.1 Introduction Nationalism is among the most powerful historical forces shaping individual self-definition. It is not uniform — different forms arise from specific historical conditions and social structures. This unit examines: forms of nationalism in specific historical contexts; the socio-economic and political forces producing them; and the broad framework within which nationalisms can be understood. […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 11 — Nationalism: Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-11-nationalism-approaches-complete-simplified-notes/): 11.1 Introduction 11.2 What is Nationalism Key definitions: Two core aspects of nationalism: 11.3 Distinction Between Nationalism and Related Terms Term Definition State A legal institution; a human community claiming the monopoly of legitimate use of physical force within a given territory Nation A human group conscious of forming a community, sharing a common culture, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 10 — Multinational Corporations and the State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-10-multinational-corporations-and-the-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 10.1 Introduction 10.2 Towards a Definition of Transnational Corporations Growth Statistics: 10.3 Globalisation and the Changing Nature of MNCs 10.4 State and Multinational Corporations Standard definition of the state: the sole unit of political rule with its own population, territory, and a sovereign/autonomous government. 10.4.1 Key Features of the State (Andrew Heywood’s Five Features) 10.5 […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 9 — International Organisations and the State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-9-international-organisations-and-the-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 9.1 Introduction 9.2 Historical Background Four prerequisites for the emergence of international organisation: All four were satisfied in proper combination in the nineteenth century. Pre-19th century multi-state system: Characterised by sovereignty as authority without responsibility. States were judges in their own causes and enjoyed a legal right to arbitrary use of force — recognised as […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 8 — Regional Integration and the State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-8-regional-integration-and-the-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Definition 8.3 Different Approaches to Integration Three schools of thought on regional integration: Approach Core View Key Feature Federalist Integration in legal and institutional terms Views integration as an end product (political union), not a process; supports World Federation Communication Model Integration as a process of transnational transactions flowing toward “security communities” […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 7 — Globalisation and the State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-7-globalisation-and-the-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 7.1 Introduction 7.2 What is Globalisation? Historical epochs of globalisation (capitalist expansion): Phase Period Key Features First Century following 1519–21 (first circumnavigation of the earth) First great expansion of European capitalism Second Late 19th century post-Industrial Revolution World trade and investment; colonialism; Great Powers divide the world. Halted by WWI and the Great Depression (1930s […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 6 — Civil Society and the State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-6-civil-society-and-the-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Meaning and Nature of Civil Society Cohen and Arato (1997): Civil society is “a sphere of social interaction between economy and state, composed above all of the intimate sphere (especially the family), the sphere of associations (especially voluntary associations), social movements and forms of public communication. Modern civil society is created through […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 5 — State in Developing Societies: Asian, African and Latin American Experiences (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-5-state-in-developing-societies-asian-african-and-latin-american-experiences-complete-simplified-notes/): 5.1 Introduction 5.2 State in Contemporary Political Theory 5.2.1 The Liberal Perception Classical Pluralism (Truman, Dahl): Reformed/Neo-Pluralism (Charles Lindblom, J.K. Galbraith): New Right Libertarianism (Hayek, Nozick): Overall liberal limitation: The institutional understanding of the state does not allow explanation of dissimilarities among states in the accumulation and exercise of political power. 5.2.2 The Marxist Perception […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 4 — Theories of State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-4-theories-of-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Meaning of the Concept of State 4.2.1 Etymology 4.2.2 State as Political Philosophers Know It Thinker Definition/View of State Plato (428–347 BC) System of relationships where everyone does their own business and rulers maintain those relationships Aristotle (384–322 BC) Association of households and villages sharing a life of virtue, aiming at perfect […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 3 — Comparative Approaches: Political Economy, Dependency and World Systems (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-3-comparative-approaches-political-economy-dependency-and-world-systems-complete-simplified-notes/): 3.1 Introduction 3.2 What is Political Economy? 3.2.1 A Marxist Conception of Political Economy Marxist approach to political economy — key points: 3.2.2 Evolution of Political Economy Stage Key Features Key Thinkers Physiocracy (Middle Ages) Wealth produced by agriculture; regulation needed to constrain selfish individualism — Classical Political Economy Private property, labour theory of value, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 2 — Comparative Approaches and Methods: System, Structural, Public Policy (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-2-comparative-approaches-and-methods-system-structural-public-policy-complete-simplified-notes/): 2.1 Introduction Political and social thinkers have long used the concept of system to explain political phenomena: Key analytical terms: variables (conceptually measurable amounts) and parameters (constant elements). Variables of a political system include structures, functions, roles, values, norms, goals, inputs, outputs, response, and feedback. 2.2 Genesis and Orientations of the Systems Approach The Systems […]
- [IGNOU MPS 004 Unit 1 — Comparative Politics: Nature, Significance and Evolution (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-004-unit-1-comparative-politics-nature-significance-and-evolution-complete-simplified-notes/): 1.1 Introduction 1.2 What is Comparative Politics and its Evolution Goal To encompass major political similarities and differences between countries and develop perspective on the constants and variability in the world’s governments and their contexts. Traditional Approach vs. Modern Approach In 1955, R.C. Macridis clearly differentiated the two, identifying five weaknesses of the traditional approach: […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 27 — Democracy and Development: An Assessment (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-27-democracy-and-development-an-assessment-complete-simplified-notes/): 27.1 Introduction 27.2 Democracy 27.2.1 Procedural Democracy What it measures: presence of institutions of democracy, political parties, associations, periodic elections, universal adult franchise, leadership. Criteria for assessment: participation and competition — indicated by frequency of elections, turnout percentages, percentage of votes polled by parties. Methods: Survey-based/ecological analysis — uses turnout percentages, statistical methods (correlation, coefficient, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 26 — Ethnicity and Nation-State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-26-ethnicity-and-nation-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 26.1 Introduction 26.2 Ethnicity and Nation-State: Conceptualisation Ethnicity Nation-State 26.3 Perspectives to Study Ethnicity 1. Primordial Approach 2. Instrumentalist Approach 3. Combined/Synthesis Approach 26.4 Manifestation of Ethnicity Four Forms of Ethnic Manifestation in India The first three are also called self-determination movements. These forms do not follow a uniform sequence — one may start with […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 25 — Religious Politics (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-25-religious-politics-complete-simplified-notes/): 25.1 Introduction 25.2 Meaning and Significance of Religious Politics Two Meanings of Religious Politics Both forms have a history of over a hundred years in India but have recently acquired the status of mainstream politics. Religion and Politics (Distinct Reference) 25.2.1 Divergent Views on Religious Politics Gandhi vs. Savarkar — both believed religion should inform […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 24 — Economic Reforms and Globalisation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-24-economic-reforms-and-globalisation-complete-simplified-notes/): 24.1 Introduction 24.2 Theoretical Debates: Market vs. Planning and Government Controls Three Positions on Managing an Economy Pareto Optimality (PO) The Planning Debate 24.3 Development Planning in India Why India Adopted Import Substituting Industrialisation (ISI) At independence, India’s economy was characterised by: Rationale for ISI and State-Led Industrialisation Difficulties with ISI 24.4 Trade Policy in […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 23 — Environment and Sustainable Development (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-23-environment-and-sustainable-development-complete-simplified-notes/): 23.1 Introduction 23.2 Contextualising Development 23.2.1 The Apparent 23.2.2 The Real 23.2.2.1 The General 23.2.2.2 The Specific 23.3 Sustainable Development: Conceptualisation 23.3.1 Concept of Sustainable Development “Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, improved living standards for all, better protected and managed […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 22 — Migration and Development (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-22-migration-and-development-complete-simplified-notes/): 22.1 Introduction 22.2 Causes of Internal Migration 22.2.1 Earnings and Employment Opportunities 22.2.2 Family and Network 22.2.3 Distance 22.2.4 Wealth and Capital Markets 22.2.5 Family Strategies to Contain Risks 22.2.6 Availability and Quality of Amenities 22.2.7 Incidence of Violence, Diseases or Disasters 22.2.8 Migration Control and Incentives 22.3 Economic Consequences of Migration 22.4 Internal Migration […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 21 — Regional Imbalances (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-21-regional-imbalances-complete-simplified-notes/): 21.1 Introduction 21.2 Conceptualising Region and Regionalism: The Indian Context Concept of Region Theoretical Perspectives on Regionalism Rasheeduddin Khan: Regionalism is most fundamental to Indian federalism. Terms India a ‘multi-regional federation’. Concepts of nationality and ethnicity alone are inadequate — regional identity is a comprehensive expression of India’s social plurality. A.K. Baruah: Ethnicity and nationality […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 20 — Gender and Development (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-20-gender-and-development-complete-simplified-notes/): 20.1 Introduction 20.2 Women and Gender 20.3 Development and Gender Modernisation and Women’s Rights — Examples Two Development Strategies in Post-Colonial Countries 20.4 Agencies of Development Women’s autonomy is closely linked to access to education, healthcare, gainful employment, and decision-making. Three primary agencies facilitate this: 1. The Individual (Libertarian View) 2. The Community (Communitarian View) […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 19 — Human Development: Health, Education and Social Security (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-19-human-development-health-education-and-social-security-complete-simplified-notes/): 19.1 Introduction 19.2 Approaches to Human Development 19.2.1 Income/GNP Approach 19.2.2 Human Capital Formation Approach 19.2.3 Human Welfare Approach 19.2.4 Basic Minimum Needs Approach 19.3 Defining Human Development “As a process of enlarging the range of people’s choices — increasing their opportunities for education, health care, income and employment and covering the full range of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 18 — Civil Societies: Social Movements, NGOs and Voluntary Action (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-18-civil-societies-social-movements-ngos-and-voluntary-action-complete-simplified-notes/): 18.1 Introduction 18.2 Civil Society: Changing Notions Liberal Notion Marxist Notion Hegelian Notion Gramscian Notion Post-Colonial Critique (Partha Chatterjee & Sudipta Kaviraj) 18.3 New Social Movements Historical Background: Sarvodaya Nature of New Social Movements (since 1970s) Key Movements Chipko Movement Anna Hazare’s Movement Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) Samiti Other Movements 18.4 New Social Movements as […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 17 — Identity Politics in India: Caste, Religion, Language and Ethnicity (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-17-identity-politics-in-india-caste-religion-language-and-ethnicity-complete-simplified-notes/): 17.1 Introduction 17.2 What is Identity Politics? Key criticism of identity politics: Historical emergence: 17.3 Identity Politics in India 17.3.1 Caste Ambedkar vs. Mandal Commission (Dipankar Gupta): Political institutionalisation of caste identity: Dual role of caste-based identity politics: 17.3.2 Religion Common myths driving religious identity divide: Historical roots: Post-1990s developments: 17.3.3 Language Complications from lack […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 16 — Interest Groups and Policy Making (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-16-interest-groups-and-policy-making-complete-simplified-notes/): 16.1 Introduction Two ethical claims justifying interest groups: Critical problem (Hirst): “Highly exclusive interests that are central to the concerns of small groups with substantial resources will be strongly organised, and inclusive interests of large groups without significant resources will be weakly organised, or not organised at all.” — The rich and resourceful gain state […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 15 — Media and Public Policy (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-15-media-and-public-policy-complete-simplified-notes/): 15.1 Introduction 15.2 What is Public Policy? 15.2.1 Definitions Key definitions: Scholar Definition Considine (1994) “Public policy is an action which employs governmental authority to commit resources in support of a preferred value”; includes “the clarification of public values; commitments of money and services; and granting of rights and entitlements.” Scholar 2 Communities “trying to […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 14 — Workers and Peasant Movements in India (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-14-workers-and-peasant-movements-in-india-complete-simplified-notes/): 14.1 Introduction 14.2 Working Class Movements in India 14.2.1 Emergence and Some Aspects of the Working Class Origins: Key figures (colonial period): Post-independence growth: Characteristics of the working class: Working Class Movements: Pre-Independence Period Phase I: 1850s to 1918 Phase II: 1918 to Independence Decade of the 1920s — crucial: Congress approach to labour: Communist […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 13 — Political Parties and Political Participation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-13-political-parties-and-political-participation-complete-simplified-notes/): 13.1 Introduction 13.2 The Concept of Political Participation Gabriel Almond: Political culture is the “particular pattern of orientations to political objects in which a political system is embedded.” Orientations are predispositions to political action, shaped by tradition, historical memories, motives, norms, emotions, and symbols. Three types of orientation: Almond (with Verba) developed a typology of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 12 — Devolution of Powers and Local Self-Government (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-12-devolution-of-powers-and-local-self-government-complete-simplified-notes/): 12.1 Introduction Historical milestones before 1952: Development Year Significance Ripon’s Resolution 1882 Aimed at involving the “intelligent class of public-spirited men” in managing rural areas; district and taluka boards set up (nominated members) for health, roads, education — villages not made basic unit Resolution on self-government 1918 Objective restated: training people to manage their own […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 11 — Federalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-11-federalism-complete-simplified-notes/): 11.1 Introduction Three essential components of federalism as a state-building theory: Fernandez Segado’s classification of competences (Spanish example): Type Description Integral Single authority has all public functions over a matter Exclusive but limited One authority has full competence but only to a certain extent; the matter, not the function, is fragmented Shared Both state and […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 10 — Legal System and Judiciary (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-10-legal-system-and-judiciary-complete-simplified-notes/): 10.1 Introduction 10.2 Genesis of Judiciary in India Ancient period: Medieval period: 10.2.1 Modern Judiciary in India Development Year Key Feature Royal Charter of Charles II 1661 Governor and Council empowered to adjudicate civil and criminal cases under English law Regulating Act 1773 Established the first Supreme Court in Calcutta — Chief Justice + 3 […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 9 — Bureaucracy, Police and Army (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-9-bureaucracy-police-and-army-complete-simplified-notes/): 9.1 Introduction 9.2 Police 9.2.1 Reasons Behind the Expansion of Police 9.2.2 Challenges Before the Police Force 9.2.3 The Police Response 9.2.4 Crime Records 9.2.5 The Police Role in Government 9.2.6 Relations with the Executive 9.2.7 Relations with the Legislature 9.2.8 Relations with the Judiciary 9.2.9 Relations with the Public 9.3 Civil Service in Democracy […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 UNIT 8 — Legislature (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-8-legislature-complete-simplified-notes/): 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Legislature Reform Year Key Feature Distinction between executive & legislative functions of Governor-General Council 1833 Conceptual separation Indian Councils Act 1861 Expanded legislative tasks; incorporated “natives” Morley-Minto Reforms 1909 Enlarged imperial & provincial legislative councils; elected non-official members; separate electorate for Muslims Montague-Chelmsford Reforms 1919 Responsible government in provinces; dyarchy; bicameral legislature; […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 7 — Structure and Growth of Economy: Poverty, Surplus and Unevenness (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-7-structure-and-growth-of-economy-poverty-surplus-and-unevenness-complete-simplified-notes/): 7.1 Introduction: Structural Transformation of the Indian Economy Sectoral composition shift (1980-81 to 1990-91 vs. 1992-93 to 1997-98): Sector 1980-81 to 1990-91 1992-93 to 1997-98 Agriculture and allied activities 34.5% of GDP 27.5% of GDP Industry 23.2% of GDP 25.9% of GDP Services 42.2% of GDP 46.6% of GDP Within industry: Major growth impetus came […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 6 — Political Economy of Development (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-6-political-economy-of-development-complete-simplified-notes/): 6.1 Introduction 6.2 The Global Divide Global income distribution (World Development Report 1999–2000): Country Group Population (millions) GNI (Billion US $) Low Income Countries 2,417 1,008.4 Middle Income Countries 2,665 5,285.5 High Income Countries 896 23,701.7 World 5,978 29,994.6 India’s specific situation: 6.3 Poverty of Income Comparisons Why income (GDP/GNP) is an inadequate development indicator: […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 5 — Inequality: Caste and Class (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-5-inequality-caste-and-class-complete-simplified-notes/): 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Notion of Social Inequality Rousseau’s distinction: Three types of societies (anthropological classification): Pre-industrial vs. modern societies: Key theorists: 5.3 Nature of Caste Inequalities in India Louis Dumont (Homo Hierarchicus): Critiques of Dumont: 5.4 Caste as Invention of Colonial Modernity or Legacy of Brahmanical Traditions Two opposing viewpoints: View 1 — Caste as […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 4 — Diversity and Pluralism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-4-diversity-and-pluralism-complete-simplified-notes/): 4.1 Introduction Explanations for democratic survival: 4.2 Towards an Understanding of Democracy Core principles of democracy: Two models of democracy: Procedural (Formal) Substantive (Informal) Focus Institutions: free/fair elections, legislative assemblies, constitutional government, legal framework Truly equal citizens: politically engaged, tolerant, equal voice Indicators Electoral participation, frequency of elections, peaceful transfer of power Meaningful exercise of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 3 — Constitution and Social Transformation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-3-constitution-and-social-transformation-complete-simplified-notes/): 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Outlook of the Indian Constitution 3.3 The Preamble 3.4 The Rise of the People 3.5 Rights of the People Rights are of two types: those available to all ‘persons’ (including non-citizens) and those available to ‘citizens’ only. Rights available to ALL PERSONS (including non-citizens): Article Right 14 Equality before law and equal […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 2 — Debate on Models of Development (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-2-debate-on-models-of-development-complete-simplified-notes/): 2.1 Introduction 2.2 Background 2.3 Confusing Overlaps The three streams were not clearly demarcated from one another: 2.4 The Debate on Land Policy 2.5 The System of Control 2.6 The Issue of Nationalisation 2.7 The Issue of Planning 2.8 Industrial Relations Two aggravating factors: 2.9 The Political Debate 2.10 The Objectives Resolution of the Constituent […]
- [IGNOU MPS 003 Unit 1 — Legacy of National Movement with Reference to Development, Rights and Participation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-003-unit-1-legacy-of-national-movement-with-reference-to-development-rights-and-participation-complete-simplified-notes/): 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Foundation of the Indian National Congress 1.3 Gandhi’s Contribution 1.3.1 Gandhi’s ‘Substance of Swaraj’ Published in Young India, 30 January 1930, following the Lahore Resolution’s pledge of complete independence (26 January 1930). Gandhi’s eleven demands: Significance: These demands softened the Lahore Resolution’s concept of complete independence; all except the first had an […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 35 — Human Security (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-35-human-security-complete-simplified-notes/): 35.1 Introduction 35.2 Meanings and Dimensions of Human Security Two main categories of threat: 1. Armed conflict and violence: 2. Economic globalisation: Core of human security: Takes the individual as the nexus of concern — the true lens through which to view politics, economy, environment, and society. Aims to construct a global society where safety […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 34 — The Concept of Justice in International Relations (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-34-the-concept-of-justice-in-international-relations-complete-simplified-notes/): 34.1 Introduction 34.2 Diplomacy as Injustice Core argument: States that generally abide by principles of justice domestically (e.g., equality before law) tend to be less scrupulous about such principles in their international conduct. Examples of diplomatic injustice: Historical overview of diplomatic injustice: Colonial era: Cold War: Post-Cold War: The democracy variable — tested and found […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 33 — Role of NGOs (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-33-role-of-ngos-complete-simplified-notes/): 33.1 Introduction 33.2 Background to the Rise of INGOs 33.2.1 First World War and International Organisations Historical foundations of the sovereign state system: 19th-century growth of international cooperation: Post-WWI: 33.2.2 Post-Second World War and International Organisations 33.3 Definition and Classification of International Organisations Irreducible essential characteristics: International ‘Regimes’: Governing arrangements for a particular issue in […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 32 — Transnational Movements: Cultural and Civilisational (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-32-transnational-movements-cultural-and-civilisational-complete-simplified-notes/): 32.1 Introduction 32.2 Meaning of Transnational Movements Key theorists and concepts: 32.3 Non-State Actors and International Culture 32.3.1 Information and International Culture 32.4 Religious Movements Characteristics of militant religious movements: 32.4.1 Dawat-i-Islami 32.4.2 Different Types of International Activities (from militant religious movements) 32.5 Transnational Communities and Civilisational Movements 32.5.1 Diasporas Definition (Kegley Jr. & Wittkopf): […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 31 — Displacement of Population: Intra-State and Inter-State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-31-displacement-of-population-intra-state-and-inter-state-complete-simplified-notes/): 31.1 Introduction — Key Definitions Displacement: Forcible dislocation of people from one place/environment to another — i.e., forced migration. It involves not just a change of physical environment but also coping mechanisms and power relations in the new setting. It is a recurring process, not a one-time event. Migration (distinction): A voluntary movement for economic, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 30 — Aboriginal/Indigenous Movements (Complete Simplified Notes) ](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-30-aboriginal-indigenous-movements-complete-simplified-notes/): 30.1 Introduction 30.2 Who Are Indigenous Peoples? Definition: Descendants of the original inhabitants of a region forcibly occupied by foreigners who subsequently replaced their mechanisms of governance and curtailed their development — yet who still manifest distinct cultural and social characteristics. ILO definitions (two key conventions): “Peoples” vs. “population” debate: Regional distribution of indigenous peoples: […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 29 — Ethnic Resurgence and Identity Wars (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-29-ethnic-resurgence-and-identity-wars-complete-simplified-notes/): 29.1 Introduction 29.2 What is Ethnicity? Anthony D. Smith’s criteria for ethnicity: 29.2.1 Decline of Ideology of Nationalism and Ethnic Resurgence 29.2.2 Nature and Dimensions of Ethnic Resurgence Scale of the problem: Magnitude: 29.3 Modernisation and Ethnic Upsurge and Conflict The mainstream (incorrect) prediction: What actually happened: Why modernisation fuels ethnicity — key mechanisms: Summary […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 28 — Emergence of Central Asian Republics (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-28-emergence-of-central-asian-republics-complete-simplified-notes/): 28.1 Introduction 28.2 State Formation in Central Asia 28.2.1 Formation of Central Asian National-Territorial Identities Soviet nation-building tools: Complications: 28.3 Sub-National Identities 28.3.1 National Minorities since Independence Economic position at independence: Inter-ethnic tensions and emigration: Language laws as a driver of emigration: Policy reversal — retaining Russian population: 28.4 Post-Soviet State Formation in Central Asia […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 27 — China as an Emerging Power (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-27-china-as-an-emerging-power-complete-simplified-notes/): 27.1 Introduction 27.2 Emergence of the People’s Republic of China Historical background: 20th-century transition: Post-liberation periodisation: Key milestones: 27.3 Post-Cold War World and Unipolarity 27.3.1 China’s Military Capability Origins of the PLA: Key doctrinal principles: 27.3.2 PLA Modernisation Size (per International Institute for Strategic Studies): Component Strength Total troops 2,840,000 Army 2,090,000 Air Force 470,000 […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 26 — Changing Nature of American Power (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-26-changing-nature-of-american-power-complete-simplified-notes/): 26.1 Introduction 26.2 Emergence as a World Power 26.2.1 Birth of a Superpower The Cold War begins: Cold War in Asia: These setbacks demonstrated that US military and economic power could not guarantee success in a bipolar system where the Soviet Union actively competed to contain the spread of American influence. 26.2.2 End of the […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 25 — Human Rights and International Trade (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-25-human-rights-and-international-trade-complete-simplified-notes/): 25.1 Introduction Two significant developments characterise contemporary international relations: (1) Since 1945, a huge corpus of human rights law has evolved under the UN — human rights have become, in UN Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali’s words (Vienna World Conference on Human Rights, June 1993), “the common language of humanity and the ultimate norm of all politics”; […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 24 — Global Corporatism and State Sovereignty (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-24-global-corporatism-and-state-sovereignty-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction This unit builds on the earlier discussion of globalisation (Unit 13) to examine two questions: (1) what kind of structure is evolving in association with the globalisation process; and (2) what impact this evolving structure is making on nation-state sovereignty. The evolving structure is seen as drastically different from past institutionalised international structures — […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 23 — Inequality Among Nations (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-23-inequality-among-nations-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction Economic relations among nations are a crucial subset of international relations. In the 19th century, the classical dictum “Trade as an Engine of Economic Growth” dominated economic thinking. Inequality was not considered despicable — it was seen as a source of growth, since capital accumulation required concentrating incomes, justifying an unequal class structure. This […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 22 — Role of Science and Technology in International Relations (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-22-role-of-science-and-technology-in-international-relations-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The relationship between technology and international relations has been continuous and intimate throughout history. Foreign policy problems and opportunities have always been influenced by a state’s technology for transport, communications, warfare, and economic production. Scholars have explored this relationship from multiple angles: political geographers examine how technology enables adaptation to geographic environments; scholars measuring […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 21 — International Terrorism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-21-international-terrorism-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The role of the sovereign nation-state has been considerably curtailed since WWII. As Keohane and Nye’s Transnational Relations and World Politics highlighted, non-state actors have gained growing importance in international relations. These include terrorist organisations, religious movements, ethnic groups, and MNCs. Of all non-state actors, only terrorist organisations have assumed a violent role and […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 20 — Nuclear Proliferation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-20-nuclear-proliferation-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The spread of nuclear weapons is considered a grave threat to world security. The debate is not about nuclear technology per se — its peaceful uses are accepted — but about peaceful vs. military uses. This debate is complicated because nuclear technology is acknowledged as “dual use” technology, making it difficult to distinguish civilian […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 19 — Intervention/Invasion (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-19-intervention-invasion-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction Intervention describes a broad range of events in international relations — from a state entering another’s violent internal conflict to a statesman making an ill-chosen remark about a foreign state’s affairs. Because the same word covers such diverse phenomena, defining it precisely is difficult. Three cautions apply: (i) it is a real-world term, so […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 18 — Right to Self-Determination (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-18-right-to-self-determination-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction Self-determination was a key slogan for nationalist movements in colonial Asia and Africa seeking freedom from European powers (chiefly Britain, France, Belgium, Portugal, Netherlands). Before that, in Europe, diverse peoples within the Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Russian empires had claimed the same right to form independent nations. This unit examines the concept’s historical application, its […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 17 — India in the New Global Order (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-17-india-in-the-new-global-order-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The last quarter of the 20th century has transformed international relations: the G-7 nations (especially the US) dominate; new middle powers like China, South Africa, and India have risen economically, politically, and militarily; the end of the Cold War has redefined security; and globalisation and regional groupings (EU, ASEAN, NAFTA) have restructured economic relations. […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 16 — Management of International Relations (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-16-management-of-international-relations-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The Cold War pattern of international relations has been replaced by a new, more complex order containing both positive and negative developments. At the apex of international institutions managing this order is the United Nations, whose involvement has increased sharply across virtually every dimension of international relations — peacekeeping, human rights, environment, disarmament, economic […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 15 — Elements of International Economic Relations (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-15-elements-of-international-economic-relations-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction International economic relations — particularly trade — are not a modern phenomenon; Asian and European countries have exchanged goods since at least the mid-16th century. British India invested in commercial projects in Southeast Asia; European countries invested in Africa. What changed was scale and intensity: the industrial revolution of the 19th century and the […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 14 — International Inequities (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-14-international-inequities-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The world is effectively divided into two blocs: the Rich/North (technologically and economically developed) and the Poor/South (industrially, technologically, and economically underdeveloped). The rich, with less than 30% of world population, control more than 70% of world wealth. The poor, with over 70% of population, subsist on less than 30% of resources and income. […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 13 — Globalisation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-13-globalisation-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The term “globalisation” is central to contemporary IR discourse; some argue it is impossible to study modern international relations without engaging with it. The term first appeared in French IR literature in the early 1950s (mondialisation), but gained widespread usage only recently, driven by the revolution in information and communication technology. Despite its ubiquity, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 12 — Regional Groupings (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-12-regional-groupings-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction Regionalism = formation of inter-state groupings. Traditionally divided into two categories: (i) regional economic integration (e.g., European Common Market) and (ii) regional security organisations (e.g., NATO). Globalisation and the end of the Cold War have given fresh momentum to regionalism. The current resurgence is diverse, global, and cuts across the developed/developing divide, pursuing political, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 11 — Emerging Powers (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-11-emerging-powers-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction Countries such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Japan, and South Africa are emerging powers in the post-Cold War international system. All are middle powers — defined and understood in various ways. The term “emerging power” is quite subjective and even misleading; “middle power,” though somewhat ambiguous, is more objectively useful and yields insights […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 10 — Post-Cold War Issues (Complete Simplified Notes) ](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-10-post-cold-war-issues-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction The end of the Cold War (1989–90) marked the end of one era and the beginning of another, affecting nearly every aspect of international relations. While the danger of direct military confrontation between the two superpowers fizzled out, durable peace has remained a distant dream for much of the world. New threats have emerged […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 9 — End of Cold War (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-9-end-of-cold-war-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction When WWII ended in 1945 with Allied victory, peace and cooperation were expected. Instead, the erstwhile allies turned into foes. The hostility between the two major victors — the USA and the USSR — was unique: they did not fight with armed forces but engaged in diplomatic conflict and one-upmanship, creating a state of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 8 — World Views from Asia, Africa and Latin America (Complete Simplified Notes) ](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-8-world-views-from-asia-africa-and-latin-america-complete-simplified-notes/): Introduction Most countries of Asia, Africa, and Latin America were under European colonial rule. After decolonisation, most adopted non-alignment, though some joined the American or Soviet bloc during the Cold War. These countries came to be known as the Third World. Their worldviews were not identical — they ranged from humanism and anti-imperialism to Pan-Asianism, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 7 — Environmental Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes) ](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-7-environmental-approaches/): Introduction Traditional IR was limited to inter-state relations, the role of governments and armed forces, and questions of war and peace. In the post-WWII period, non-state actors (including terrorist organisations and MNCs) became active, and civil society could no longer be ignored. Civil society is directly linked to sustainable development, defined by the Brundtland Commission […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 6 — Feminist Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes) ](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-6-feminist-approach-notes/): Introduction Feminism = the advocacy of the rights of women. It argues that women have been disadvantaged and subordinated to men through a system of patriarchy — a system of social structures and practices through which men dominate and exploit women. Two implications of this: Patriarchy is present in all institutions and structures — from […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 1 — What is Political Theory and Why Study it? (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-1-what-is-political-theory/): Introduction Political theory is simultaneously a theory, a science, and a philosophy of politics. Political theory is not fantasy, politicking, pure scientism, or ideology — though it contains elements of all four. It is theoretical, scientific, philosophical, and dynamic, with the objective of attaining a better social order. What is Political Theory? In its nature […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 5 — Post Structuralist and Post Modernist Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-5-post-structuralist-modernist/): Introduction The three dominant theories discussed in earlier units — Realism, Liberalism, and Structuralism (Marxism) — all share the underlying assumption that international politics operates within a given structure and that objective “facts” or “truth” about the world can be discerned through scientific method. This is why they are collectively labelled “rationalist” or “positivist” theories. […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 4 — Neo-Radical Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-4-neo-radical-approaches-notes/): Introduction Neo-radical approaches — variously labelled “development of underdevelopment,” “centre-periphery,” and “dependency” — explain the nature of capitalist penetration in the Third World (Afro-Asian and Latin American countries). They do not form a single unified body of literature; each represents a distinct way of explaining development or underdevelopment in Third World societies. Together they are […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 3 — Marxist and Other Radical Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-3-marxist-and-radical-approach/): Introduction The Marxist approach contrasts sharply with Realism and Liberalism. It is not status-quoist — it demands radical change of the existing international/world order. Where Realists see “struggle for power” and liberals see “interdependence,” Marxists seek the deeper, hidden truth: that all familiar events of world politics (wars, treaties, aid programmes) occur within structures of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 2 — Liberal and Neo-Liberal Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-2-liberal-and-neo-liberal/): Introduction Liberalism (also called pluralism) projects a fundamentally different image of world politics from Realism. Its core themes: human beings are perfectible; democracy is necessary for that perfectibility; and ideas matter. Unlike Realists, liberals believe in human progress and individual reason, reject war as the natural condition of international politics, and see multiple actors — […]
- [IGNOU MPS 002 Unit 1 — Realist and Neo-Realist Approaches (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-002-unit-1-realist-and-neo-realist/): Introduction Realism is the most influential theory in explaining world politics, particularly the recurrent condition of war in the international system. Its basic assumptions, however, have not gone unchallenged. What is Realism? Also called Political Realism or Realpolitik. Roots traceable to Thucydides (Peloponnesian War, 431 BC) and Sun Tzu (The Art of War), but emerged […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 29 — Political Theory in the Era of Globalisation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-29-political-theory-in-the-era-of-globalisation/): Introduction How Does Political Theory Evolve? Binaries in Political Theory: Liberalism and Marxism Liberalism Marxism Core emphasis Democratic governance, universal human rights, common good Class-based analysis; exploiters vs. exploited in constant war Primary values Liberty and Equality (liberty often prioritised) Revolution leading to classless, stateless society Goal Justice, Liberty, Equality through institutional reform Overthrow of […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 28 — Communitarianism and Civic Republicanism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-28-communitarianism-and-civic-republicanism/): Introduction Liberal Individualism — Summary: Communitarianism: An Introduction The Value of Community Membership Communitarians challenge the liberal individualist conception of the self on two grounds: First criticism — Liberal individualism devalues community: Second criticism — Liberal individualism misunderstands the self-ends relationship: The Communitarian Position on State Neutrality The alternative — Politics of the Common Good: […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 27 — Gandhism and Pacifism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-27-gandhism-and-pacifism/): Introduction Gandhism Pacifism Non-violence and Power Believers vs. Pacifists i) Passive resistance: ii) Satyagraha: The Non-Violent Society The Government The Power of Non-Violence Non-violence as active force: Matchless bravery: Exercise in faith: Non-violence as science (Ahimsa): Hate the sin, not the sinner: The Technique of Non-violent Action Non-violent action is a technique of conducting protest, […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 26 — Feminism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-26-feminism-complete-notes/): Introduction Types of Feminism Three conventional streams: Stream Core Argument Liberal Feminism Works within the liberal state framework; argues that concepts of equality, freedom, and justice are inadequate until the gender dimension is included. Socialist Feminism Links women’s oppression to class society; draws from Marxist analysis while critiquing its gender-blindness. Radical Feminism Theorises patriarchy as […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 25 — Fascism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-25-fascism-complete-notes/): Introduction Fascism — Meaning and Ideational Profile The Fascist Worldview Core Ideas Irrationalism Racialism Statism — Drive Towards a Corporate State Elitism Operational Dynamics Centralisation and Concentration of Power Single Party Absolute Leadership Additional Operational Features Fascism and Challenges to Contemporary Life Fascism — An Evaluation Summary (Key Takeaways) Aspect Key Point Ideological roots Revolt […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 24 — Multiculturalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-24-multiculturalism-notes/): Multiculturalism: The Concept Most countries today are internally plural — they have people of different religions, races, and cultures living within their boundaries. The central question multiculturalism poses and seeks to answer: How can these diverse communities be treated as equals within the framework of democracy? Multiculturalism begins with the understanding that granting equal civil […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 23 — Nationalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-23-nationalism-complete-notes/): Introduction Nationalism is an important social and political phenomenon that involves the making of nations and nation-states into a definable identity. As a normative doctrine, it emphasises the importance of nations in explaining historical developments and analysing contemporary politics. It claims that “national character” is a pervasive factor differentiating human beings and asserts that all […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 22 — Fundamentalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-22-fundamentalism-notes/): Introduction Religion has traditionally been one of the major components of national identity — sometimes its most prominent feature. Almost every state comprises groups having faith in one religion or another (Northern Ireland: Protestants and Catholics; Sri Lanka: Christian Tamils and Buddhist Sinhalese; India: Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians) and even within a particular religion there […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 21 — Conservatism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-21-conservatism-complete-notes/): Introduction Conservatism — as a philosophy dedicated to the defence of an established order, a strategy to maintain the status quo, or a “right-wrong ideology” — is an important intellectual force today. Clinton Rossiter summarises the principles on which conservatism bases itself: As a mood, conservatism prefers: liberty over equality; tradition over change; history over […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 20 — Socialism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-20-socialism-complete-notes/): Introduction Socialism is a set of doctrines, a cluster of ideas, and a political programme that emerged at the beginning of the 19th century. It arose out of a revolt against bourgeois property. In bourgeois society, property loses its sacred character but gains a new type of sanction — it becomes an inalienable right. The […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 19 — Lukacs, Gramsci and the Frankfurt School (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-19-lukacs-gramsci-frankfurt/): Introduction In addition to Marx, Lenin, and Mao, three other major streams have enriched Marxist theory — those associated with Georg Lukacs (Hungarian), Antonio Gramsci (Italian), and the Frankfurt School (Germany). Their contribution is more to theory than to revolutionary practice. Other notable contributors to Marxist theory include Trotsky, Plekhanov, Althusser, Kolakowski, and Poulantzas; contributors […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 18 — Marx, Lenin and Mao (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-18-marx-lenin-and-mao-notes/): Introduction For over 200 years, liberalism has been the most dominant strand in political philosophy. Classical liberalism — advocating individual liberty and laissez-faire economics — became the economic philosophy of capitalism, protecting and promoting the interests of the bourgeoisie. On the other hand, it led to the concentration of capital and the alienation and exploitation […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 17 — Libertarianism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-17-libertarianism-notes/): Introduction With the rise of liberalism as a theory of the welfare state in the 20th century, state functions increased manifold. The fight for classical liberalism was not given up, however. After the Second World War, theorists whose allegiance lay with early classical liberalism produced a new movement known as Libertarianism, which became popular in […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 16 — Welfare State (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-16-welfare-state-completenotes/): Introduction The term “welfare state” describes collectively a range of social policies that aim to provide basic services such as health and education according to need, normally free of charge through state funding. The theory of the welfare state is the basis of positive liberalism. A welfare state: provides extensive social services to all citizens; […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 15 — Classical Liberalism (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-15-classical-liberalism/): Introduction Liberalism is the dominant ideology of the present-day Western world. The history of England, Western Europe, and America for the last 300 years is closely associated with the evolution and development of liberal thought. Liberalism was the product of the climate of opinion that emerged at the time of the Renaissance and Reformation in […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 14 — Political Violence (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-14-political-violence-notes/): Introduction Political violence in modern societies results from social tensions developing for different reasons. It is largely directed against the state — considered the chief source of injustice and repression. Violence is a purposeful political action to register protest against “wrong” policies of the government. Aristotle: men do not revolt because they catch cold — […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 13 — Civil Disobedience and Satyagraha (Complete simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-13-civil-disobedience/): Introduction Civil disobedience has become an important element in the political power structure of the contemporary world. Key examples: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the US civil rights movement, the “people’s power” movement in the Philippines, and the non-violent collapse of communism in Eastern Europe. Key statements on the relevance of civil disobedience: Recent […]
- [IGNOU MPS 001 Unit 12 — Legitimation and Obligation (Complete Simplified Notes)](https://polsciarchive.in/ignou-mps-001-unit-12-legitimation-and-obligation/): Introduction Legitimation and obligation are intimately related concepts — legitimation induces obligation, while obligation strengthens the claims of legitimation. Both have captured the attention of philosophers since ancient Greece. The relationship: legitimation seeks to demand or pursue something; obligation seeks to accept or follow. Legitimation is a matter of seeking obedience; obligation is a matter […]

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