Basics Flashcards
What is Political Science
The field studying and analysing political processes and behaviours
Types of Political Sciences (6)
Comparative Politics
International Relations
National Politics
Political Philosophy
Political Theory
Public Policy
What is Politics?
The concept which negotiates and competes for resources and makes common and binding agreements
What are Political Systems?
The interaction between authorities and citizens.
*The National Government is usually the main actor.
What does Hobbes argue regarding the government’s function?
The government is the most powerful actor within the state.
Needs to promote peace and build a monopoly to prevent conflict.
Criticisms to Hobbes
Governments can abuse their power and turn against their citizens.
What is power?
Is the production of intended effects. Cause a change.
What is the 1st dimension on power?
Power prevailing over political outcomes.
· Influence over outcomes & behaviours
· Winners vs Losers
What is the 2nd dimension of power?
Controlling preferences.
· The government manipulates over policymaking processes
· Barrier reinforcement
· Some times the government isn’t considered legitimate
What is the 3rd dimension of power?
Shaping preferences.
· The government has a monopoly over preferences
· Changing opinions
What do AR do regarding power dimensions?
All 3 dimensions are centralised with one party/leader
What do Democracies do regarding power dimensions?
There is competition for the dimensions. These are distributed along the political system.
What is Authority?
Is the right to exercise power
What, according to Weber, are the different types of authorities?
- Traditional: monarchy, long-lasting, unlikely to change
- Charismatic: based on a leader, subject to change over time
- Rational: based on the rule of law and legality principles
What is Legitimacy?
The acceptance of political authorities from the public.
