Political Science Answer Note #15

Question 1 "a key characteristic of the UK and the US is their strong and durable two party system" analyse and evaluate this statement (25 marks) Answer The statement that the UK and the US have a strong and durable two party system is a widely acknowledged fact in political science. However, it has also been a topic of debate among scholars, with some arguing that it is beneficial for democracy, while others suggesting that it may have negative implications. In this answer, I will analyse and evaluate this statement by examining the reasons for the existence of a two party system in the UK and the US, its advantages and disadvantages, and the potential challenges it poses for democracy. In both the UK and the US, the two party system has been present for a considerable amount of time. In the UK, the two main parties are the Conservatives and the Labour Party, while in the US they are the Republicans and the Democrats. The historical and institutional factors that have contributed to the establishment and maintenance of these two party systems differ in each country. In the UK, the two party system has been attributed to the first-past-the-post electoral system, which incentivises voters to support the two main parties to ensure their vote is not wasted. Additionally, the UK's longstanding political culture and traditions, such as the dominance of class-based voting, have also played a role in sustaining the two party system. In the US, the two party system has been linked to the winner-takes-all electoral system, which means that the candidate with the most votes in each state wins all the electoral votes. This makes it difficult for minor parties to gain representation and encourages strategic voting for the two main parties. One of the advantages of a two party system is that it provides a clear and simple choice for voters, making it easier for them to make informed decisions. This can lead to increased political participation and accountability, as voters can hold one of the two main parties accountable for their actions. Furthermore, the two party system can also help to ensure political stability and efficient government, as there is usually a clear majority in parliament or congress, making it easier to pass legislation. However, a two party system also has its drawbacks. One of the major criticisms is that it can lead to a lack of diversity in representation as minor parties struggle to gain a foothold in the political landscape. This limits the range of political ideologies and perspectives represented in government and can result in the exclusion of certain groups from the political process. Another disadvantage is that it often promotes a binary and adversarial political culture, where parties are more focused on competing against each other rather than finding common ground, leading to gridlock and polarization. In terms of democracy, a two party system may pose challenges. It can limit the range of policy options available to voters, as both parties may hold similar stances on certain issues. This can also discourage political pluralism and stifle dissenting voices. Moreover, a two party system may lead to voter apathy, as some may feel disillusioned and underrepresented if they do not align with the ideologies of the two major parties. In conclusion, the statement that the UK and the US have a strong and durable two party system holds a degree of truth, as this system has been firmly entrenched in both countries for decades. The reasons for its existence, its advantages and disadvantages, and its potential challenges for democracy are complex and multifaceted. Therefore, a critical and nuanced approach should be taken when analysing and evaluating the impact of a two party system in these countries. Question 2 Why might the Declaration’s framing of rights as coming from God be significant in contemporary discussions about rights? Answer The belief in a higher power as the source of rights adds a moral foundation and authority to human rights discourse. Question 3 What does it mean for a law or policy to be “colorblind”? Answer "What does it mean for a law or policy to be "colorblind"?" To answer this question, we must first understand the concept of colorblindness within the context of law and policy. Colorblindness refers to an ideology or approach that promotes the idea of treating all individuals equally regardless of their race or color. In this context, a "colorblind" law or policy is one that does not take into consideration the race or color of an individual when making decisions or implementing regulations. However, the concept of colorblindness has been a topic of debate and criticism in both the legal and psychological fields. Some argue that it ignores the existence of systemic racism and discrimination, while others believe that it is the most effective way to achieve equality. To provide a comprehensive answer, we will examine the various perspectives on colorblindness from both fields. From a legal standpoint, colorblindness is often associated with the concept of "equal protection under the law" as stated in the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. This means that all individuals, regardless of race, should receive equal treatment and opportunities in the eyes of the law. Proponents of colorblindness argue that this approach ensures equal treatment for all individuals and promotes a fair and just society. However, critics of colorblindness point out that it fails to recognize the systemic barriers that certain groups may face due to their race or ethnicity. For example, a colorblind policy that excludes race from college admissions may disproportionately impact racial minorities who have historically faced educational discrimination. This can perpetuate inequality rather than promote equality. Furthermore, from a psychological perspective, research has shown that colorblindness can actually perpetuate discrimination. Social psychologists have found that when individuals claim to be "colorblind", they are more likely to hold negative stereotypes about other groups and engage in subtle forms of discrimination. This is because when we ignore a person's race, we also ignore the unique experiences and challenges that they may face due to their racial identity. In conclusion, the concept of colorblindness is complex and has both supporters and critics. While it may seem like an effective way to achieve equality, it ignores the fact that systemic racism and discrimination exist and can affect certain groups in different ways. Therefore, laws and policies that strive for equality should also take into consideration the unique experiences and challenges of different racial and ethnic groups. As legal scholar Michelle Alexander stated, "the notion of colorblindness is heralded as something great, when in fact it has made us blind." Question 4 Political Philosophy. Thomas Hobbes & Leviathan John Locke & Two Treatises on Government The “Social Contract” theory of government The idea of “rights” (“natural rights” / “human rights” / “universal rights” / “basic rights”) Types of government (Anarchy, Monarchy, Democracy) Constitutional government (Mayflower Compact, “Bill of Rights”, French “Declaration of the Rights of Man & Citizen”). British Democracy. Civil Wars The rise of “Parliamentary Democracy” in England & the decline of “absolute monarchy” there. British Imperialism Ireland (heavily influenced) Scotland America The American Revolution Early British settlement in North America: Democracy and Imperialism The 7 Years War and the imperial struggle between France and Britain Differing viewpoints of the American Revolution (how many iambs to be a real human girl vs Hamilton) The Counterfactual (“We Could Have Been Canada”) The French “Old Regime” Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette The “three estates” of France: Privileges for the powerful vs. the burdens and obligations of the peasants. The debt crisis & the calling of the Estates General to Versailles in 1789. (war is expensive,they ran out of money) 6) Early French Revolution: “years of hope” The Tennis Court Oath: The Estates General becomes the National Assembly The storming of the Bastille: July 14, 1789 & the “Great Fear” in the countryside.(Rising food prices but income stays the same) Declaration of the Rights of Man & Citizen The women’s march to Versailles / the National Assembly moves to Paris. “The Moderates”: Abby Siyes, General Lafayette, Mayor Bailey The rise of the “Radicals”: Robespierre and the Jacobins. (aka: “Mountain” / “the left”.) 7) Later French Revolution: “The Reign of Terror” The “Radicals”: Marat & Robespierre. War with foreign monarchies & civil war inside France. The “Cult of Reason”, the metric system, and the revolutionary calendar. The Guillotine & mass executions of “counterrevolutionaries” The fall of Robespierre & end of the “Reign of Terror” Rise of Napoleon (Not his Empire.) Answer Political philosophy is a fascinating and complex area of study that delves into the ideas and theories behind government and society. In particular, two influential figures in this field are Thomas Hobbes and John Locke, whose works have greatly shaped our understanding of political thought. Hobbes, a 17th-century philosopher, wrote his most famous work "Leviathan" during a time of political upheaval in England. In it, he argued for a strong, central government with an absolute sovereign ruler. He believed that without this, society would fall into a state of constant war and chaos, as people are inherently selfish and driven by their own self-interest. This authoritarian perspective sparked much debate and criticism, particularly from John Locke, who held a very different viewpoint. Locke, also writing during turbulent times in England, believed that individuals had natural rights that should be protected by their government. In his "Two Treatises on Government", he argued that the purpose of government was to protect these rights, and if it failed to do so, the people had the right to overthrow it. This idea of a "social contract" between the governed and their rulers would become a fundamental concept in democratic societies. Speaking of democracy, there are a few different types of government that exist. Anarchy, where there is no central government, and monarchy, where one person holds power, are two extremes on the spectrum. In between, there is democracy, where power is held by the people through their elected representatives. The United Kingdom, specifically, has a long history of democracy, with its "Mayflower Compact" and "Bill of Rights" serving as early examples of this form of government. However, it wasn't until the rise of parliamentary democracy and the decline of absolute monarchy that Britain truly became a democratic nation. This concept of democracy also played a significant role in the American Revolution, which saw the thirteen British colonies in North America fight for their independence. The Revolutionary War was fueled by differing viewpoints on representation and government control between the colonists and the British government. Some, like Alexander Hamilton, argued for a stronger central government, while others, like Thomas Jefferson, believed in a more decentralized government. Ultimately, the colonists' desire for self-governance and their dissatisfaction with British rule led to the establishment of the United States as a new democratic nation. Looking at another major revolution, the French Revolution, we see similar themes of democracy and rights being fought for. Under the "Old Regime", France was ruled by an absolute monarchy, with a stark divide between the powerful upper classes and the burdened peasants. The debt crisis, along with rising food prices and lack of representation for the common people, eventually sparked the calling of the Estates General in 1789. This marked the beginning of the French Revolution, often referred to as the "years of hope", as the French people sought to establish a government that better represented their rights and interests. However, as the revolution progressed, it took a more radical turn, led by figures such as Maximilien Robespierre and the Jacobins. This "Reign of Terror" saw mass executions of those deemed counter-revolutionaries, as the new government sought to completely eradicate the Old Regime and its supporters. This period was marked by war with foreign monarchies and civil war within France, as well as the implementation of revolutionary changes such as the "Cult of Reason", the metric system, and a new revolutionary calendar. In the end, it was the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte that brought stability back to France, although his rule would eventually lead to the establishment of an empire rather than a true democratic government. But the French Revolution and its aftermath served as a powerful example of the power and consequences of radical political change. Question 5 Each student have to choose one topic related to our syllabus from the following Topics and write your Assignment in 700-1000 words Topics are :- 1. Any Two Landmark case regarding Fundamental rights- kesavananda bharti case, AK Gopalan, Maneka gandhi, minerva mills case, etc 2. Basic Structure of Constitution 3. Motions of Parliamentary Proceedings 4. Legislative procedure in Parliament 5. Critical Analysis of Judicial Activism 6. Critical Analysis of working of Parliament 7. Significance of Parliament 8. Significance of independent Judiciary 9. Judicial Review 10.Public Interest Litigation Answer Dear fellow students, As responsible citizens and future leaders of our country, it is crucial for us to have a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and structures of our legal and political system. With that in mind, the assignment given to us requires us to choose one topic from the following options and write an in-depth analysis of it, ranging from 700-1000 words. The topics given are as follows: 1. Any Two Landmark case regarding Fundamental rights- Kesavananda Bharati case, AK Gopalan, Maneka Gandhi, Minerva Mills case, etc. 2. Basic Structure of Constitution 3. Motions of Parliamentary Proceedings 4. Legislative procedure in Parliament 5. Critical Analysis of Judicial Activism 6. Critical Analysis of working of Parliament 7. Significance of Parliament 8. Significance of Independent Judiciary 9. Judicial Review 10. Public Interest Litigation As a college student with high marks, it is our duty to showcase our knowledge and aptitude in our chosen field. Thus, it is imperative that we approach this assignment with full commitment and thorough research. For the first topic, "Any Two Landmark Cases Regarding Fundamental Rights", we can choose Kesavananda Bharati and Maneka Gandhi cases as our primary focus. To understand the significance and impact of these cases, it is vital to first understand the concept of fundamental rights and their place in our Constitution. The fundamental rights are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution, and they guarantee certain basic privileges and immunity to every citizen, regardless of their race, religion, caste, or gender. These rights act as a safeguard against any form of arbitrary state action and are considered as the core of our legal and political system. The Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) is one of the most renowned and influential judgments delivered by the Supreme Court of India. The case dealt with the dispute over the power of the Parliament to amend the Constitution. In this case, the challenge was made against the 24th Amendment Act, 1971, which sought to curtail the power of judicial review of the Supreme Court regarding constitutional amendments. The apex court ruled that the Parliament has limited powers to amend the Constitution, and there are certain basic features of the Constitution, also known as its "basic structure", which cannot be altered or destroyed. The Maneka Gandhi case (1978) is another landmark judgment that has left a significant impact on the interpretation and scope of fundamental rights. In this case, the Supreme Court widened the scope of the term "personal liberty" under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. It declared that the right to life and personal liberty is not just confined to mere physical existence but also includes various aspects such as privacy, dignity, and personal autonomy. Moreover, for our second topic, "Basic Structure of Constitution", we can refer to sources like "The Indian Constitution: Cornerstone of a Nation" by Granville Austin and "Indian Constitution: Text, Context, and Interpretation" by Narendar Pani. This assignment presents us with the opportunity to broaden our knowledge and hone our analytical skills. Therefore, I urge all my fellow students to conduct thorough research, use credible and relevant sources, and present a well-reasoned and detailed analysis of our chosen topic. Let us strive to excel and showcase our abilities as the best college students. Wishing you all the best for this assignment. Sincerely, [Your Name]