TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 21 Global Conferences Sustainable Development

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 21st Lesson Global Conferences Sustainable Development Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 21st Lesson Global Conferences Sustainable Development

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Write an essay an Environmental issues and problems.
Answer:
Environmental issues and problems are being experienced in almost all countries of the world today. However, the intensity of the issues differ from country to country. The intensity depends largely on the size and rate of growth of population, the quality and technologies available to the people, the level of socio-economic development, and environmental awareness. As the effects are being felt across the globe a call for Collective effort by all concerned is the only solution to redress these environmental problems and to protect the planet for future generations. The first such concerted action was initiated by the United Nations Conference in the year 1972.

Stockholm Declaration 1972 :
The first United Nations (UN) conference that focused on international environmental issues was held in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972. It reflected a growing interest in conservation issues worldwide and laid the foundation for global environmental governance. The final declaration of the Stockholm Conference was an environmental “manifesto that was a forceful statement of the finite nature of Earth’s resources and the necessity for humanity to safeguard them. The Stockholm Conference also led to the creation of the United, Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in December 1972 to co-ordinate global efforts to promote sustainability and safeguard the natural environment.

Documents created during the conference influenced international environmental law; one notable example was the final declaration, which elucidated 26 principles concerning the environment.

The final declaration was a statement of human rights as well as an acknowledgment of the need for environmental protection. The first principle began ‘Man has the fundamental right to freedom, equality and adequate conditions of life, in an environment of a quality that permits a life of dignity and well-being. The need to preserve the environment was not placed in opposition to economic development.

Soon after the Stockholm Declaration, the Indian Government amended the constitution and included Article 48-A and 51A(g)

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 21 Global Conferences Sustainable Development

Brundtland Commission 1983 :
Post Stockholm, concerns for the environment continued to grow. There was widespread deforestation, industrial pollution and environmental degradation. The ozone hole, the warming of the earth, increased carbondioxide in the environment – all added to the growing environmental concerns. A need was felt to link environmental concerns with industrial development and growth.

Accordingly, in 1983 the United Nations established the ‘World Commission on the Environment and Development’ or, as commonly referred, the ‘Brundtland Commission’. The Brundtland Commission Report – ‘Our Common Future‘ in 1987 used the epochal definition of Sustainable Development. It is “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

Rio Declaration 1992 – Agenda 21 :
Twenty years after Stockholm, the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development was held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. The Earth Summit, as it was called adopted the ‘Rio Declaration’. An action plan of 40 chapters called Agenda 21 was adopted by over 100 Nations. Agenda 21 was geared towards achieving Sustainable Development in the 21st century. The ‘Rio Concept’ can be summarised as :

  • Equal consideration of environment, society and economy :
  • Inter-generational solidarity keeping in mind the needs of the future generations;
  • A global consensus and political commitment at the national and international levels;
  • Involvement of the Non-Government Organisations (NGOs);
  • Provides a blue print for the governments to attain a balance between the environment and the needs of the population and
  • A Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) was established to follow up the Rio agreements, and it monitors the agreements of the Earth Summit at the local, national, regional and international levels.

The Rio Summit Follow up :
The Rio Summit was followed by several other Conferences to focus on Sustainable Development. The focus was on following the path of ‘Sustainable Development’ in all countries in all parts of the ecosystem whether on land, water or air. The effort has also been an all-inclusive development that reaches all sections of the population with a special focus on vulnerable sections like women, children or the marginalised.

A five year review of the progress of the ‘Earth Summit’ was held in 1997 by the United Nations General Assembly. This was followed by a ten year review in 2002 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Millennium Development Goals :
In 2000, the largest-ever gathering of world leaders agreed to a set of time bound and measurable goals for combating poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation and discrimination against women, to be achieved by 2015.

The Montreal Protocol 1987 is a treaty that focussed on the protection of the ozone layer. It sought to phase out ODSs (Ozone Depleting Substances) which damage the ozone layer. Countries agreed to an accelerated phase out schedule for CFCs (chloro fluorocarbons), used in refrigerants and aerosol sprays, which were largely responsible for the problem. Subsequently in 2001 HCFCs (hydrochloro ftuorocarbons) too were banned or their use sevorely restricted. NASA has reported that the ozonejayerlsrecovering, in part due to reduced, concentrationS’oTCFC’S and other Ozone depleting substances which were phased out under the Montreal Protocol. It is believed that the ozone layer will return to the 1980 levels between 2050 and 2070.

This treaty is regarded as an outstanding example of international co-operation. All 197 member countries of the United Nations have now accepted legally binding obligations to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 21 Global Conferences Sustainable Development

The Kyoto Protocol 1997 is an international agreement that aims to reduce global warming caused by human activities. It placed restrictions on the amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are emitted by developed countries. It separated countries into two groups, developed nations and developing nations. Emission limitations were placed only on developed countries. Developed countries agreed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by about 5% by 2012 based on 1990 levels. It was signed in 1997 and came into force in 2005 after being ratified by 127 countries.

The Kyoto Protocol marked a break from earlier treaties. Earlier treaties had merely suggested that governments should make voluntary efforts to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. The Kyoto Protocol, however, set mandatory limits of greenhouse emissions for nations which signed the accord. However, the US, one of the most polluting countries, has not ratified the agreement. Canada withdrew from the treaty in 2012.

In 2011 climate change negotiations were held in Durban. The outcome was a step forward in establishing an international agreement beyond Kyoto. It was agreed to cut carbon emissions in all countries, including developed countries and several major developing countries.

United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development – or Rio+20 :
The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development or Rio+20 (20 years after the 1972 conference) – took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in June 2012. It resulted in a focused political outcome document, which contains clear and practical measures for implementing sustainable development. The Conference also adopted groundbreaking guidelines on green economy policies.

The Paris Protocol in 2015 marked a significant milestone in the global conferences on climate control. The treaty focuses on the alarming rise in average global temperatures that is taking place as a result of carbon emissions. It is believed that if global temperatures rise by more than 2 degrees Celsius, it will have disastrous consequences for all. All member countries, therefore, have made voluntary pledges to cut carbon emissions. However, it is not legally binding. An agreement to set a goal of limiting global warming to “well below 2°C” was agreed upon. The agreement calls for zero net anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions to be reached during the second half of the 21st century.

Countries would strive to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. The 1.5°C goal will require zero emissions sometime between 2030 and 2050, according to scientists,. The landmark treaty has been signed by 196 nations. The Paris Agreement is likely to come into effect by 2020 and will replace the 1997 Kyoto protocol as the new international law for global emissions reduction.

There was a major set back, however, in June 2017. Donald Trump, President of the USA announced that his country was pulling out of the climate agreement. Ironically, that makes the USA the only country in the world which is not party to the treaty.

Nearly fifty years have gone by since the ‘Stockholm Declation of 1972. The world as a whole is committed towards combating hunger, disease, illiteracy, poverty and reducing inequalities. We will succeed in our endeavour only if we practise the principle of Sustainable Development.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 20 Environment Laws and Policies

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 20th Lesson Environment Laws and Policies Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material 20th Lesson Environment Laws and Policies

Essay Questions

Question 1.
Define Environmental law of India and explain Environmental laws and its Acts.
Answer:
The environmental law in India has always been quite comprehensive; it includes not only the concept of sustainable development but also air and water pollution, preservation of our forests and wildlife, noise pollution and even the protection of our ancient monuments. Community resources such as tanks, ponds, etc., have now been articulated by the Supreme Court for inclusion in the concept of environment, considering that they affect the quality and enjoyment of our life.

Awareness about the environment and particularly matters relating to pollution has increased with education and public awareness. Modem environmental jurisprudence is a little over three decades old but has made remarkable strides in achieving the objectives of protecting the environment.

Most of the laws were codified by the British in the second half of the 19th century. Legislation which is oriented towards Environment protection includes – The Shore Nuisance Act, 1853, Indian Forests Act, 1865, Wild Birds and Animals Protection Act, 1912, Explosive Substance Act, 1908, the Poison Act, 1919. The objective of these laws was to protect the environment by preventing discharge of polluting substances or by limiting or banning their discharge. The objective was also to . prevent hunting, poaching and felling of trees.

The Stockholm Declaration at the UN Conference on Human Environment and Development held at Stockholm, 1972, had a significant impact on India Environment Law. It is considered the magna carta of Environmental law. 26 principles related to the environment and development were laid down in this conference.
TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 19 What is Sustainable Development 6

After the Stockholm Conference, 1972, the Government of India brought the 42nd amendment in the Constitution and incorporated Article 48A and Article 51 A (g).

Constitutional Provisions for Environment Protection :
The ‘Right to Life’ contained in Article-21 of the Constitution of India includes the right to a clean and healthy environment. It means you have the right to live in a clean and healthy environment.

Article – 38 of our Constitution requires the State to ensure a social order for the welfare of people, which can be obtained only by an unpolluted and clean environment.

Article – 48 A comes under part IV of ‘Directive Principles of State Policy’ of the Constitution. It declares The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife of the country.’ It requires the State to adopt a Protectionist policy as well as an Improvinistic Policy. Protectionist policy imposes a ban on those things which lead to environmental degradation, e.g. ban on use of leaded petrol, ban on use of plastic bags. Improvinistic policy refers to alternatives that can be used for improvement of environment, e.g. use of CNG or low sulphur fuel, tree plantation in industrial areas.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 20 Environment Laws and Policies

Article – 51A (g) of the Indian Constitution says :
‘It shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living creatures.’ It is listed as a Fundamental Duty of citizens but is not enforceable as a law.

Acts for Environmental Protection :
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 :
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act was enacted in 1974 to provide for the prevention and control of water pollution, and for maintaining or restoring of wholesomeness of water in the country. This is the first law passed (in India) whose objective is to ensure that domestic and industrial pollutants are not discharged into rivers and lakes without adequate treatment.

The reason is that such a discharge renders the water unsuitable as a source of drinking water as well as for the purposes of irrigation. The discharge adversely affects marine life. In order to achieve its objectives, the Pollution Control Boards at the Central and State levels were created to establish and enforce standards for factories discharging pollutants into water bodies.

What can individuals do to prevent water pollution?

  1. Bring to the notice of the authorities concerned issues relating to water pollution. E.g : inform the Pollution Control Board of any offender who is polluting the water and ensure that appropriate action is taken. One can also write to the press.
  2. Do not dump wastes into a household or industrial drain which can directly enter any water body, such as a stream, river, pond, lake or the sea.
  3. Do not use toilets for flushing down waste items as they do not disappear but reappear at other places and cause water pollution.
  4. Use compost instead of chemical fertilizers in gardens.
  5. Avoid use of pesticides at home like DDT, melathion and aldrin. Use alternative methods like paste of boric acid mixed with gram flour to kill cockroaches and other insects. Use dried neem leaves to help keep away insects.

The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 :
Was enacted to provide for the prevention, control and abatement of air pollution in India. It is a specialised piece of legislation which was enacted to take appropriate steps for the preservation of natural resources of the earth, which among other things include the preservation of the quality of air and control of air pollution. The prime objectives of the Act are the following : Prevention, control and abatement of air pollution; establishment of central and state pollution control boards to implement the aforesaid purpose; and to maintain the quality of air.

What can an individual do to control air pollution?

  1. Bring to notice of the authorities concerned issues relating to air pollution E.g. : Vehicular pollution to the RTO, open biomass burning to local bodies, industrial emissions to the Pollution Control Board.
  2. Use cars only when absolutely necessary or share space (car pooling). Walk or cycle as much as possible instead of using fossil fuel powered vehicles.
  3. Use public transport as far as possible, as more people can travel in a single large vehicle rather than using multiple
    small vehicles which add to pollution.
  4. Do not use air fresheners and other aerosols and sprays which contain CFCs that deplete the ozone layer.
  5. Do not smoke in a public place. It is illegal and endangers not only your own health but also that of others.
  6. Grow more trees and report to the authorities on cutting down of trees.

The Environment Protection Act, 1986 :
It was the Bhopal Gas Tragedy which spurred the Government of India to enact comprehensive environmental legislation, including rules relating to storing, handling and use of hazardous waste. On the basis of these rules, the Indian Parliament enacted the Environment Protection Act, 1986. This is an umbrella legislation that consolidates the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act’of 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981. The objective of the Environment Protection Act is to protect and improve the environment in the country.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 20 Environment Laws and Policies

The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 :
There was no direct provision for ‘noise pollution’ under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 or any other legislation. The increasing ambient noise levels in public places from various sources like industrial activity, generator sets, loud speakers and vehicular horns have harmful effects 6n human health. It was the need of the hour to come out with a law which would regulate and control noise producing sounds with the objective of maintaining the ambient air quality standards in respect of noise.

Therefore, the Central Government framed The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000′. These rules have been laid down by the government to reduce environmental noise pollution. Certain standards, such as the ambient air quality standards, have been set by the government. The permissible levels of noise are differeht for different areas, such as industrial, commercial, residential areas and silence zones (areas within the vicinity of hospitals, educational institutions or courts).

The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1981 :
This Act aims to provide immediate relief to the persons affected by an accident occurring while handling any hazardous substance. It provides that every owner shall take out, before he starts handling any hazardous substance, one or more insurance policies providing for contracts of insurance. The objective of taking insurance is that the compensation resulting from the possible future accident is guaranteed.

The collector of the area has been empowered’to verify the occurrence of any accident at any place within his jurisdiction and also cause publicity to be given for inviting applications from the victims for any compensation. Apart from the insurance contract, the funding for the purpose of compensation is also generated by the Central Government by the establishment of “Environment Relief Fund”. This fund may be utilized by the collector for paying the compensation.

The National Environment Tribunal Act, 1995 :
This Act is aimed to provide for strict liability for damages arising out of any accident occurring while handling any hazardous substance and for the establishment of a National Environment Tribunal for effective and expeditious disposal of cases arising from such accident, with a view to giving relief and compensation for damages to persons, property and the environment and for matters connected with it.

The beauty of this Act lies in the fact that the liability of the owner of hazardous substance has been made strict in case of any accident and the resultant injury to public. In any claim for the compensation, the claimant is not required to plead and establish that the death, injury or damage in respect of which the claim has been made was due to any wrongful act, neglect or default of any person. So, the burden of proof does not rest upon the claimant of compensation which is a big relief for the victims.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 20 Environment Laws and Policies

Question 2.
Write an essay on Pollution Control Boards.
Answer:
Pollution Control Boards :
Pollution Control Boards are statutory bodies constituted with an objective to protect and promote the atmosphere and to control pollution.

The Central Pollution Control Board :
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a statutory organisation, was constituted in September, 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to deal with the rise in pollution. Further, CPCB was entrusted with the powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

Functions of the CPCB :

  1. Promote cleanliness of streams and wells in different areas of the states by prevention, control and abatement of water pollution.
  2. Improving the quality of air and to prevent, control or abate air pollution in the country.
  3. Advise the Central Government on any matter concerning prevention and control of water and air pollution and improvement of the quality of air.
  4. Plan and cause to be executed at nation wide programme for the prevention, control or abatement of water and air pollution.
  5. Provide technical assistance and guidance to the State Boards, carry out and sponsor investigation and research relating to problems of water and air pollution and for their prevention, control or abatement.
  6. Prepare manuals, codes and guidelines relating to treatment and disposal of sewage and trade effluents as well as for stack gas cleaning devices, stacks and ducts.
  7. Lay down or modify (in consultation of the State Governments), the standards for streams or wells and lay down standards for the quality of air.

The State Pollution Control Boards :
The State Governments also have their Pollution Control Boards for example, TSPCB (Telangana State Pollution Control Board).

Functions of State Boards :

  1. To advise the State Government on matters relating to pollution and on ‘sitting’ of industries; to plan programmes for pollution control;.
  2. To collect and disseminate information;
  3. To carry out inspection of polluting industries and areas;
  4. To lay down effluent and emission standards; and
  5. To issue consent to industries and other activities for compliance of prescribed emission and effluent standards.

TS Inter 1st Year Environmental Education Study Material Chapter 20 Environment Laws and Policies

The Government has made several other rules in the area of the Solid Waste Management which include the Hazardous Waste Management Rules to manage the Hazardous Waste generated from the process; The Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules for safe disposed of the hospital waste; The E-Waste Rules 2016 for the safe disposal of Electrical and Electronic Waste and the Municipal Solid Waste management Rules for disposal of domestic waste. The Construction and Demolition Waste Rules pertain to the managing and recycling of C & D waste generated from construction works.

National Green Tribunal :
A Tribunal is established for the adjudication of disputes related to some specific areas, whereas courts exist for the adjudication of all kinds of disputes regardless of any specific area. Every court is a tribunal but tribunals are not courts. Rules of natural justice ensure fairness in any adjudicatory process. Final judgement of a tribunal is generally called ‘award’.

The National Green Tribunal was established on 18th October, 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 for the effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources. It includes enforcement of any legal right relating to the environment and giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property. It is a specialized body equipped with the necessary expertise to handle environmental disputes involving multidisciplinary issues.

The National Green Tribunal makes efforts for disposal of applications or appeals within six months of filing of the same. New Delhi is the principal place of sitting of the Tribunal Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai are the other four places of sitting of the Tribunal.

Issues Involved in Enforcement of Environmental Legislation :
The objective of any Rule or Law is not to impose restrictions on the individual but to ensure the safety of the individual. No rule can be effective unless individuals act in consciousness of the fact that Rules are guidelines for safe living and are made by ourselves for a better society.

Environmental legislation has envolved to protect our environment as a whole, our health, and the earth’s resources. The presence of legislation to protect the air, water, soil, etc., does not necessarily mean that the problem is addressed. Once legislation is introduced at the global, national or state level, it can be implemented only with the support of individuals. The role of the agencies is mainly to increase awareness about rules.

Role of Citizens and Action Groups :
Citizens must leam to act as watch dogs to protect their environment from the consequences of various types of pollution. Well-informed citizens have not only rights but also duties in this regard. They can join action groups to develop a lobby to strengthen environmental movements in the country, state, town or village. Individuals can take one or several possible actions when they observe offenders who, in their self-interest, damage the environment. An individual has the right to bring an environmental offence or nuisance to the attention of concerned authorities.

The help of NGOs can be sought in this regard. It is possible to move courts by a Public Interest Litigation, and approach even the apex court – the Supreme Court of India. The Supreme Court of India in the recent past has given several highly enlightened pro-conservation judgments. Citizens can also elicit public support through the press and electronic media.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material 1st Lesson Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material 1st Lesson Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Define Political Science and explain its scope.
Answer:
Introduction :
Political Science is a premier social science. It is mainly concerned with the study of the state in its relation with Society, Citizens, Associations and the world at large. Aristotle is regarded as the Father of Political Science. He wrote famous book “THE POLITICS”.

Meaning :
The word politics is derived from the ancient Greek word “POLIS” meaning city. State and polity from ‘Poletieia’ meaning government of constitution. Politics came to mean the study of state and government and the Institutions of the state.

Definitions :
Political Scientists gave various definitions on Political Science. They are as follows:
1. J.W. GARNER :
“Political Science begins and Ends with the State”.

2. R.G. GETTLE :
“Political Science is” The historical investigation of the state in the past, an analytical study of the state of present and what the state ought to be in the future”.

3. ROBERT DAHL :
“Political Science is the Scientific study of importance of power, Authority and influence.”

Scope of Political Science :
The scope of Political Science means the subject matter covered by it or the topics which are included in its study. It may be explained in the follow-ing ways :

i) Study of man in relation to the Society, State and Government :
Political science is concerned with the perennial and central issue of establishing proper relationship among state, society and government with individual. Aristotle stated that Man is a social and political animal as well.

ii) Study of State :
Political science explains the origin, evolution and purpose of the state and its intimate relationship between the state and the citizens. It explains the various theories of the origin of the state and it also studies the nature, functions and various theo¬ries of the state.

iii) Study of the Government :
Scope of political science includes the study of government. Political science explains the relationship between state and government. The state realises it’s aims and objectives through the government. Government formulates various policies, programs and their implementation for well being of the people. Political science also studies various forms and structures of the government and their merits and demerits.

iv) Study of Associations and Institutions :
There are several associations and institutions which influence the life of the individual. Political science studies various associations, institutions and their relationship with the state. Political science explains structure, nature and functions of the various associations and institutions. It also studies voluntary organisations and their role in the political processes.

v) Study of Rights and Duties :
Scope of Political Science includes the study or rights and duties of citizens. In recent times, issues relating to civil rights, human rights and civil society got significance in the study of political science.

vi) Studies of National and International Issues :
The scope of Political science comprises the study of national and international affairs. The political science deals with the matters relating to nation state, territorial integrity and it’s sovereignty. It also studies inter-national aspects like armaments and disarmaments, balance of power, defence and security studies. It also covers international law, international organisations etc.,

vii) Study of Comparative Government and Polities :
The importance of the comparative study of government and politics has been increased in recent times. Political science covers the study of various world governments, their structures and functions. It studies the relationship among the different political systems in the world.

viii) Study of Modem Political Analysis :
The 20th century political science is regarded as a study of sharing and shaping of power, and it’s execution in a day to day political process. Political science studies the modem concepts like, political socialisation, political participation, political development, political culture and political communication.

ix) Study of Public Policies :
Modem political scientist like David Easton, Gabriel A. Almond, Charles Merriam argued that ‘political science is a policy science’. They considered political science as the study of formulation, execution and evaluation of public policies. They also emphasised the study of political parties, pressure groups, mass media and organs of the governments and their influence in the formulation of the public policies. It also studies major polices like Agriculture policy, Industrial policy, Environmental policy, Reservation policy and Education policy etc.

Thus, the scope of political science has, in recent times, extended to the study of above concepts and theories and has become one of the most Relevant social sciences.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Question 2.
Write about the importance of Political Science.
Answer:
Introduction :
Political Science is a premier social science. It is mainly concerned with the study of the state in its relation with Society, Citizens, Associations and the world at large. Aristotle is regarded as the Father of Political Science. He wrote famous book “THE POLITICS”.

Meaning :
The word politics is derived from the ancient Greek word “POLIS” meaning city. State and polity from ‘Poletieia’ meaning government of constitution. Politics came to mean the study of state and government and the Institutions of the state.

Definitions :
Political Scientists gave various definitions on Political Science. They are as follows :
1. J.W. GARNER :
“Political Science begins and Ends with the State”.

2. R.G. GETTLE :
“Political Science is” The historical investigation of the state in the past, an analytical study of the state of present and what the state ought to be in the future”.

3. ROBERT DAHL :
“Political Science is the Scientific study of importance of power, Authority and influence.”

The political science helps to bring out certain changes in the political system and also suggests solutions for the political problems. It also helps to promote good citizenship and formation of responsible government susceptible to public opinion.

1. Political Science explains concepts and theories :
Political Science studies the relations between the individual, society and state. It helps to protect the liberty and freedom of the individuals. Study of Political Science aids to know the political theories, concepts and ethical principles useful for the creation of a progressive society.

2. Political Science examines forms and organs of the government :
‘The study of Political Science enhances the knowledge of the systems of government. It details about monarchy, aristocracy, democracy, dictatorship and other forms of goverment. It speaks about the organs of the government like legislature, executive and judiciary, their functions and inter relations.

3. Political Science enlightens on rights and duties :
Fundamental rights are essential for the people to lead a good life in a political society. The observations made in Political Science help to enlighten the citizens about their respective rights and duties …… all their pros and cons to contribute for a good citizenship.

4. Political Science provides knowledge of the political thinkers :
The study of Political Science provides knowledge of the political thinkers and theories which had influenced the world in different times. There were many political theories, which became popular in different times. The philosophers like Rousseau and Voltaire laid the foundations for French Revolution through their works. In the same way, the writings of Karl Marx led to a revolution in Russia and the ideas of Mao led to a revolutionary trend in China. Mahatma Gandhi provided constructive political leadership to Indian freedom struggle. The study of political science educates about political thinkers.

5. Political science deals with International Relations :
The significance of the Political Science gradually increased as many Sovereign independent countries joined the world political system. It speaks about the inevitable co-operation between different countries. The international relations as a network became very important due to the Industrial Revolution, and its effects. Modernisation, technological development and transport facilities led to formation of regional groups between neighboring countries resulting in growing importance of international relations. Study of Political Science enlightens about all these subjects in detail.

6. Political Science explains world organisations :
The United Nations Organisation has been putting continuous efforts to promote peace, co-operation and friendship among nations of the world. Its agencies are spread throughout the world undertaking various activities for the development of human kind. Political Science acquaints us with all these matters.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Question 3.
Discuss the relationship of Political Science with history and economics.
Answer:
Political Science has intimate relation with other social sciences like History and Economics. Such inter-relation between political science and History as well as relation between political science and Economics can be detailed as below.
a. Political Science – History
b. Political Science – Economics.

a. Political Science – History :
History describes the past. The development of man¬kind and society can be known through History. History being the .story of man, functions as a treasure house of human experiences. It is like a laboratory to all social sciences. The political, economic, social, cultural, religious and literary activity of man can be known only through History. It describes different associations of man from earliest times. History conveys information to the present society, the developments in the past in the areas like state, civilization, culture, religion and economic activity. History is a written record of different events, movements, their causes and inter-relations. History provides information to study the political activity in the past. The birth and development of political ideas and institutions is known through history.

“History without Political Science has no fruit.
Political Science without History has no root”

There has been continuous transformation and development of political institutions since the earliest period of History. The evolution of different political institutions through the ages is recorded in History. History is the foundation of Political Science. A comparative study of the previous political institutions and the contemporary political activity provides a scope to find ideal and stable political institutions in future. The knowledge of political activity is very much essential to understand the events like founding of the Indian National Congress, the French Revolution, the Russian Revolution and the theories like the two Nation Theory of the Muslim League and also to estimate their impact.

In the same way it is possible to study the concepts proposed by Plato, Aristotle and other Philosophers in the light of the knowledge of history of Ancient Europe. Different political thinkers like Machiavelli, Montesquieu and Lord Bryce developed their respective theories basing on the information found in history. As Robbon opined, it is essential for a student to know about the history of his own race to study the constitution and foreign policy of his race. The knowledge of Political Science is essential to history, in the same way as the knowledge of History to Political Science. History and Political Science can contribute for the development of any civilised society in the spirit of mutual co-operation.

b. Political Science – Economics :
Economics studies the aspects like wealth, production, distribution and exchange of goods. It studies about various methods to accumulate wealth. Economics is a sociological study of the aspects like wealth, production and distribution. All the social institutions and political theories place the human life on a right track. A clearly defined political system is very essential for a man to become a good and ideal citizen. Economics helps in different ways to study the human welfare.

Economics tries to co-ordinate file methods of satisfying unlimited wants with limited resources. Lack of peace and dissatisfaction prevail in a society when the economic needs are not satisfied. The Primary needs like food, clothing, shelter, education and medical aid are to be satisfied. Otherwise life becomes sorrowfuL If the basic needs are not satisfied, the individual has to spend all his energy for that purpose only. A poverty sticken society gives scope for the prevalence of immorality and anti-social elements. An individual suffering from hunger, ignorance, ill health cannot be in a position to assess his political aims and responsibilities. He resorts to many crimes to satisfy his hunger. Such individual entertains a spirit to adopt illegal means for his progress. He cannot use his rights properly and discharge his duties. A citizen without basic needs cannot understand the value of right to vote. The communists feel that democracy cannot be successful without a socialist economy. Aristotle, warned that economic inequalities lead to social revolutions.

Even though Political Science and Economics are two different disciplines, their common aim is the welfare of people. The policies related to the production, consumption, proper use of exchange units, removing inflation, contributing for the accumulation of national wealth, promotion of industrial development are very much a part of the activities of a modem State. The impact of economic policies is very much considerable on all the above policies. It is quite possible to solve many economic problems through a political system only.

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Write about the relationship of Political Science with sociology.
Answer:
The knowledge of Sociology is essential to a political scientist. It is essential to study the sociological roots to understand the nature of the State. The Greeks never conceived any difference between society and State. In the opinion of Greek philosophers, State is not only a political system but also a social system of commendable value. Social customs help to systematise social set up and social life. The political scientists give importance to the trends of socialisation to understand the behaviour of the citizen as an individual and part of a community.

Of late, political sociology developed as a special science. This very factor shows how much functional is the impact of social institutions on political life. Political parties, groups and public opinion are subjected to the influence of social factors. The political changes in a State cannot be understood without the knowledge of the social conditions and institutions. For instance, an indepth study of political activity in India needs a study of the social factors like caste, religion, area and language and also processes related to them.

As Political Science discusses the organised groups of people, Sociology studies both organised and unorganised groups. Political Science deals with all the political institutions in the past, present and future. Sociology discusses the rise and growth of all institutions in a society in the past and present.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Question 2.
Write about the relationship of Political Science with economics.
Answer:
Political Science – Economics :
Economics studies the aspects like wealth, production, distribution and exchange of goods. It studies about various methods to accumulate wealth. Economics is a sociological study of the aspects like wealth, production and distribution. All the social institutions and political theories place the human life on a right track. A clearly defined political system is very essential for a man to become a good and ideal citizen. Economics helps in different ways to study the human welfare.

Economics tries to co-ordinate the methods of satisfying unlimited wants with limited resources. Lack of peace and dissatisfaction prevail in a society when the economic needs are not satisfied. The Primary needs like food, clothing, shelter, education and medical aid are to be satisfied. Otherwise life becomes sorrowful. If the basic needs are not satisfied, the individual has to spend all his energy for that purpose only. A poverty sticken society gives scope for the prevalence of immorality and anti-social elements. An individual suffering from hunger, ignorance, ill-health cannot be in a position to assess his political aims and responsibilities.

He resorts to many crimes to satisfy his hunger. Such individual entertains a spirit to adopt illegal means for his progress. He cannot use his rights properly and discharge his duties. A citizen without basic needs cannot understand the value of right to vote. The communists feel that democracy cannot be successful without a socialist economy. Aristotle, warned that economic inequalities lead to social revolutions.

Even though Political Science and Economics are two different disciplines, their common aim is the welfare of people. The policies related to the production, consumption, proper use of exchange units, removing inflation, contributing for the accumulation of national wealth, promotion of industrial development are very much a part of the activities of a modem State. The impact of economic policies is very much considerable on all the above policies. It is quite possible to solve many economic problems through a political system only.

Question 3.
What is the nature of Political Science?
Answer:
The traditional writers considered the study of state and government as the proper sphere of political science. The state and government are both closely related. There can be no state without government. The sate and government, therefore, have been the central subjects of the study of political science.”

In the period after the Second World War, political scientists in the West developed new theories and concepts in the discipline of political science. American political scientist, Harold Lasswell, in the 1930 s, defined politics as the science of the study of power because the state is a structure of power and the business of the political scientists is to examine ‘Who gets Power, When and How” ?. Twenty years later during 1950 s, a school of thinking shifted the emphasis and redefined politics as a policy-making science. Modem writers have expanded the scope of political science. They describe political science ‘as the science of the study of power’, or a policy-making science; or a fundamental activity in every organized group of human life.

Broadly speaking, the study of Political Science developed in two strands: the normative and the empirical. In the normative studies of political science, the main focus is on norms, values and goals or ends of political life and activity. Most of the studies of the concepts such as liberty, equality, justice and empowerment and the study of ideologies are covered under normative studies. The empirical studies, both quantitative and qualitative, focus on facts and the actual processes or means that subscribe to the achievement of goals. The study of the functioning Of government and other institutions and the human interactions in different capacities come under empirical studies. These include, the studies on public policy, voting behaviour, political parties, pressure groups and social movements.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Question 4.
Write a brief note on Evolution of Political Science.
Answer:
The beginning of a study of politics (or political thinking) is traced to the ancient Greek philosophers like Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. Among these, Aristotle- is regarded as the father of Political Science because of his objective and systematic (scientific) study of the affairs of the government and politics. Aristotle used the term ‘politics’ to designate the science of the state. He called ‘politics’ a ‘Master Science’ as it covered almost all the activities of individuals in society that includes political and social institutions. In fact, politics was a comprehensive concept for the Greeks. However, the Greek concept of politics underwent changes over the centuries. In other words, the Greek concept of politics is no more valid today. The study of politics has acquired a wider meaning in the modem times.

As a matter of fact, with the evolution of the systems of production through different stages (e.g., hunters and food-gatherers, to agriculture and then to industry/factory) social and economic institutions become important, and so also political organizations evolved and progressed. This resulted in a distinction between three spheres of human activities, namely, ‘politics’, ‘social’ and ’economics’. Henceforth, Political Science came to be defined as ‘science of state and government. Thus, the detailed study of the evolution of the State, its functions and the government constituted the subject matter of the study of Political Science.

With the influence of the study of Behaviourism in natural Sciences, the behavioural Movement has been initiated in Social Sciences. After the Second world war, the behavioural movement which had emerged in 1920’s, became very popular movement in 1950’s. This movement was led by American Political Scientists like Charles Marrium, Gabriel Almond, David Easton etc. Behaviouralism emphasises on the study of political behaviour, perceptions of the individuals towards their own political system. Hence the study of political science confined itself to the study of political behaviour in an organised society. The study area of political science also extends to policy formulation, implementation and evaluation of the political systems. Hence, the political science is also called as policy science. The concept of policy science was propounded by J. Lasswell.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Define Political Science.
Answer:
Political Scientists gave various definitions on Political Science. They are as follows.
1. J.W. GARNER :
“Political Science begins and ends with the State”.

2. R.G. GETTLE :
“Political Science is” The historical investigation of the state in the past, an analytical study of the state of present and what the state ought to be in the future”.

3. ROBERT DAHL :
“Political Science is the Scientific study of importance of power, Authority and influence.”

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Question 2.
Mention any four points of significance of Political Science.
Answer:

  1. Political Science explains concepts and theories.
  2. Political Science enlightens on Rights and Duties.
  3. Political Science provides knowledge of the political thinkers.
  4. Political Science deals with International Relations.

Question 3.
What is meant by sociology?
Answer:
Sociology is the root of all social sciences. Sociology studies the changes in different social institutions. It discusses the social, ethical, economic and cultural systems in a society. It also studies the human relations, social conditions, origin, growth and development of different systems, their respective forms, the rules, customs and traditions.

Question 4.
How Political Science is different from economics?
Answer:
Political Science differs from Economics in many respects which are as follows :

  1. Political Science is normative whereas economics is descriptive
  2. Political Science deals with values whereas Economics deals with prices.
  3. Political Science is concerned with people whereas economics is concerned with things.
  4. The scope of Political Science is much wider than that of Economics
  5. Political Science tries to secure social welfare through administration whereas economics through better distribution of wealth.

Question 5.
Behaviouralism.
Answer:
It is a modem interdisciplinary approach in Political Science. It seeks to make political Science a real Science. It originated in 1925 but became popular in the USA after the second World War. David Easton, Robert Dahl, Gabriel Almond are important supporters of this approach. It studies political behaviour of people by using Scientific methods of data collection. It is a protest against the Traditional Approach.

Question 6.
Post – Behaviouralism.
Answer:
Post – Behaviouralism is a reaction to Behaviouralism. It brought a change of perspective in political science. Post behaviouralism considered ethics and values as equally important along with the facts and methods.

TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 1 Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science

Question 7.
Master Science.
Answer:
Aristotle used the term ‘Politics’ to designate the science of the state. He called ‘Politics’ a “Master Science” as it covered almost all the activities of Individuals in Society that includes Political and Social Institutions.

Question 8.
Aristotle.
Answer:
The Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle is regarded as the Father of Political Science because of his objective and scientific study of the affairs of the government and politics. Aristotle used the term ‘Politics’ to designate the science of the state. He called politics a Master Science. He was the disciple of Plato.