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Political And Political Theories Of Political Science
Introduction
Politics play a major role in every country and those who hold office have had some prior
experience in politics before achieving the seat they now hold. Many of these politicians have
backgrounds in Political Science that gave them the knowledge to pursue politics. Political
Scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. They research ideas that
will help them analyze government policies, trends and other political issues. Political Science is a
highly competitive field that requires many skills to achieve a job within the industry. However,
once the time is taken to gain these skills, the benefits of the job are substantial.
Job Description
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), "Political Scientist typically research
political subjects such as the U.S political system, relations between the United States and foreign
countries, and political ideologies ("Political Scientist")." These scientists collect data from the
public and turn them into surveys and other forms of assistance for the government. Scientists
should be able to predict social and political trends within a country to take steps that are necessary
to continue their work with better precision. Due to this, scientists spend a lot of time researching
the subject they are focusing on. This research plays a vital role in Political Science. Scientists
conduct research in four sub–fields on Political Science. These fields are: American politics,
comparative
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Feminism Theory Of The Political, Economic, And Social...
Feminism theory according to Merriam–Webster definition is the theory of the political, economic,
and social equality of the sexes (p.1). There are four major categories of feminist theories– Gender
Differences, Gender Inequality, Gender Oppression and Structural Oppression. These theories
analyze both women and men's roles in society, they also question the roles of gender between men
and women. This includes how class, race, ethnicity and age are viewed from a feminist perspective.
The main reason that feminist theories are used is to educate society and to improve the lives of
women by explaining each of the four major categories of feminist theories and how they are
structured in society in order to get a better understanding of how they work. The first theory is
Gender Differences and according to Ritzer & Stepnisky (2013), this theory is broken down into
two major categories: Cultural Feminism and Existential (or Phenomenological) Feminism (p .202).
Cultural feminism focuses on the biological differences between men and women, and the roles they
play in society. This is a radical theory that emphasizes the controversial idea of how male
masculinity has dominated over the female gender. Cultural feminist want to overcome the
inequality placed upon them by today's male dominated society in hopes to better the lives of
women. The second category in gender differences is, Existential (or Phenomenological) Feminism.
This category is different from Cultural Feminism
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The Theory Of The Political Economy
The theory of the political economy in the context on media studies, is that behind every media
product, has a commercial and economic imperative and as such, has particular impacts on the
media content that would not exist if such imperatives ceased to exist. It is these impacts that both
limit media products, and allow media products of a particular nature exist. A political economic
approach in the production of media is in contrary to the nature of media itself; accuracy, integrity
and authenticity are lost in favor to economic power.
A capitalist society is one that exists within an exploitative framework. Our society exists and
functions due to labor being exploited by those in a lower social class with the intention of
economic profit for those who exploit others. (Marx and Moore, 2001) Ignoring the morality of this
ideology, it enables a functioning society to a particular degree. When this theory is applied within
the context of a political economy of media production, we can begin to understand its value. The
nature of a capitalist society means that human labor worth a monetary value and that is exchanged
between the exploiter and the exploited. As such, without a political economic influence, media
products would cease to exist. Funding facilitates the production of media – labor is required to
create, produce, distribute and consume media.
All media is influenced by the political economic circumstances, however, the extent in which this
model impacts the
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Political Theory Has Changed Over The History Of The World
Political theory has changed over the history of the discipline. Two of the most influential and
arguably most important theorists are the Greek philosopher Plato, and the Renaissance's Niccolo
Machiavelli. These two characters represent the beginning of idealistic political thought, and a more
realist and contemporary way that politics are looked at even today. The ideals of these two will be
discussed and dissected, to some extent to show how unobtainable Plato's ideal is compared to
Machiavelli's realism that is seen in today's political atmosphere in various types of political
systems seen throughout the world. Looking at Plato, you must understand where and what the
timeframe he lived in. He was born in Classical Greece in the year 427. He was educated,
sophisticate, wise, intelligent, and also wealthy. These were traits that in this time period put you at
the top of societal elites. Plato was a very gifted orator and speaker, giving him the ability to reason
and discuss any topic really, with the ability to win arguments and persuade people. Due to his status
in society, he was very idealistic and used this idealism to reason how a perfect society should be
constructed and run. Plato discusses and sets forth his political ideal in the Republic. He uses
platonic type writing in the book, using characters to discuss, make points and arguments about how
to form such a society. The ideal city, or state even, is a model for how we as people look at
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Political Theory Paper
There are different types of communities within academic disciplines. According to Ann M. Johns,
"Discourse Communities and...", each community serves a different purpose and has a specific goal
intended for its readers. In this instance, academic communities depict that there are distinct fields
that every individual chooses to be part of, and how each community has its own expectations and
style of writing. The academic disciplines range from biology, political, science, history, and many
more. In this paper, I will state the particular expectations that the political science community
expects from its scholars within the political theory field. Also, how some political science writers
use similar or different writing traits to get their message ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
Miller remarks, "I guess I would say we are interested in being clear as possible explaining how
connections between concepts work. We are interested in establishing conceptual connections or
conceptual logics." It is important to implement connections that allow young scholars to analyze
every aspect of capitalism both positive and negative; and to have the ability of explaining it and a
high degree of wise vocabulary. Therefore, a political science community is different from that of a
History discourse that suggests its writers to elaborate their work in greater detail that will create a
new perspective rather than just focusing on the argument itself.
In addition, the rhetorical device ethos is important to support a writer's claim. An academic journal,
The Slaves of Institutionalism? A Comment of Bell and Hindmoor, by Michael Moran, illustrates
the impact that ethos has on the audience. The main point of the article is to critique other
international political economy written analysis on the 2008 global crisis from other writers' point of
view. The author critiques the work of other colleagues, but does so in a respectable manner. It
contains many citations that make the author's argument credible and valid. Moran
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Essay about Rational Choice Theory in Political Science
Rational Choice Theory in Political Science
According to one of rational choice theory's prominent and more thoughtful contemporary
exponents, Peter C. Ordeshook, "four books mark the beginning of modern political theory:
Anthony Downs's An Economic Theory of Democracy (1957), Duncan Black's Theory of
Committees and Elections (1958), William H. Riker's A Theory of Political Coalitions (1962), and
James Buchanan and Gordon Tullock's The Calculus of Consent (1962). These volumes, along with
Kenneth Arrow's Social Choice and Individual Values (1951), began such a wealth of research that
political scientists today have difficulty digesting and synthesizing all but small parts of it.
Consequently, the full value of this research often goes ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
First I will provide an overview of what rational choice theory is and why it has staked such a
prominent position in the discipline of political science. In this section I conclude that rational
choice theory has indeed developed advanced methodologies at telling us how rational agents
should behave. Then in my second section I will show, using the empirical case of the free–rider
problem and collective action, as well as the case of suicide terrorism, that rational choice theory
cannot adequately account for actual political phenomena. In my third section I will provide some
reasons for why this is the case. Finally, in my concluding section I will posit a theoretical
framework incorporating some refinements to the assumptions behind rational choice theory that
would better aid a predictive (but not universalist) political science.
What is Rational Choice Theory?
Rational choice theory is actually more than one theory per se, but the basic similarities among its
variants mean that they can be intelligibly amalgamated for the purposes of critiquing its
implementation in political science. Therefore public choice theory, positive political science,
rational actor models, and the economic approach to politics, among others, refer to what we may
call rational choice theory for the purposes of this essay. (See Green and Shapiro 1994, xi.
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The Political Theory Of The American Founding, By Thomas West
The Founders attached great significance to property rights in their America. While many
acknowledge this, progressives tend to criticize the Founders for this attachment. Critiques claim the
Founders had selfish motives when establishing the constitution; a document which provided
generous protections for private property. Therefore protecting the wealthy elite against the
democratic majority. Could the progressive left be correct that the Founders' individualism was
appropriate to an agrarian pioneering nation, but is destructive to the modern industrial state? If so,
then possible direction from the national government would be needed, leading to big government,
which is exactly what the Founders did not want to see happen. Thomas West provides great clarity
and strong reasoning when discussing the founders understanding of property rights. From his book,
The Political Theory of the American Founding, West makes clear that the Founders held property
rights to be as important as other human rights. In fact, at times they may have even insisted that the
right to acquire and possess private property was in some ways ... Show more content on
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Many try to say that possession only refers to the rich and the poor cannot posses if they have
nothing. West notes this, claiming the Founders thought this out, "the Founders anticipated this
criticism by insisting that the right to property includes not only possession of what one has, but also
acquisition of what one needs," (West, pg.317). West then point to the Virginia Declaration of Rights
which states, "that "all men...have certain inherent rights," including "the means of acquiring and
possessing property"," (West, pg.317). "In the Founding, the right to acquire property precedes the
right to possess it because the right to acquire is the foundation of the right to possess, not only
because of the needs of the poor, but also because of the natural right to liberty itself," (West,
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Political Scientists: Theories Of American Democracy
Political scientists have developed several theories about American democracy, including
majoritarian theory, elite theory, and theories of pluralism. The government ought to do what the
majority of the people want, and elites decide what is good or bad for the people, and compromising
decisions. (Textbook, pg.,15–17) So, our democracy is not just simple concept, but is complex.
Among these theories, elitism seems outstanding issue to me because it can make all the rules, or
laws only for their own interest or advantage. I wonder how we are able to trust those people only
by the education they have received. They can do all the work only for their interest, not for the
people. Even if they insist it is good for the public, or they have better
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Concept of Freedom in Political Theory
Why is the concept of freedom so contested in political theory? (Word maximum: 1,500) Freedom is
an important concept in Western politics, strongly entwined as it is with ideas of liberalism. Yet, as
suggested by the question, the concept is one which is hotly debated. Indeed, political agents
attempt to control the political agenda through promotion of their particular definition. This essay
will look at the ways freedom has been defined by different theorists over the years. It will also look
at how freedom is linked with and explained through different theo–ries and ideologies. It will then
go on to look at how these different theories and ideologies may shape the conceptions of freedom
we find in our daily lives. Different ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This approach may be considered stifling of both innovation and effort, since anything above the
average will not be rewarded. By contrast, if equality of opportunity is achieved, then some will
accumulate more wealth and power than others, giving them effectively more freedom. John Rawls
(1971, cited in Middleton, 2005) introduced two principles of justice, the first of which was that
'each person is to have an equal right to the most extensive liberty compatible with a similar liberty
for others'. Rawls attempted to address the question of inequality through the second of his
principles: the 'difference principle'. In this he said that it was acceptable for some to be better off
than others as long as by doing so the poorest people also benefitted in some way. In other words,
inequality was acceptable if some of the extra benefit were redistributed to those most in need. This
approach is an example of positive freedom. However, Isaiah Berlin (1969, cited in Smith, 2005),
known as a chief architect of theories of positive and negative freedom, saw dangers in this
approach too. He argued that it was wrong to ascribe to individuals a set of common needs and
desires. Moreover, he considered that the surrender of individual freedom for collective self–rule
could result in individual rights being violated. He concluded that a measure of both
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Political Theory: Comparing Locke, Rousseau and Plato Essay
Locke: What is the purpose of politics – we could live in the state of nature, we don't need contract
or soverign – life, liberty and property State of nature: men live according to reason and governed
by reason – man exists in the state of nature in perfect freedom to do as they want, a state of perfect
freedom – not necessarily good or bad, bit is calm and peaceful – men give up some of their
freedom to secure the advantages of civilized socity – men have the right to protect their freedom
(killing if necessary) – bound by the laws of nature – contrast with hobbes: everyone has the right
over everything, there exist no private property – Liberty to do as ... Show more content on
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First part says that the aim of the contract is to protect and defend the common goods of each
member. Consistent with Locke's claims that the purpose of society is protect the security of each
members. Rousseau adds a second and more disctinctly original claim. The contract must ensure the
conditions for mutual protection, but also in uniting with one another each person obeys only
himself and remains as free as he was before. Isn't the essence of the social contract giving up part
of our natural freedom? How can we remain as free. Total alienation of each associate together with
all of his rights to the entire community Total alienation, entire community. To ensure the terms of
the agreements, persons must totally give themselves up for the social contract. When we alienate
ourselves, this must be given to the entire community. This is to ensure that the general will works.
General will is only legitimate sovereign. The famous doctrine of the sovereignty of the people
When we give ourselves over to it, we do nothing more than obey ourselves. Sovereign is not third
party, it is simply the people as a whole acting in their collective capacity. How do we remain as free
as we were before? Formula for freedom or tyranny of the majority? Only through total alienation
do we remain free, because nobody is
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Comparing The Political Theories Of Two Philosophers
Dominic Bressi
Prof. Catherine Chaput
CH 201
15 October 2014
When comparing the political theories of two renowned philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle,
one must first focus on the merits of each of their own theories in depth. Plato is often considered as
the first writer of political philosophy while Aristotle is considered the first political scientist.
Though Aristotle was once a student of Plato, the two differ on the topic of how to best improve
society for the benefit of mankind. Thus, both of their theories need to be investigated to establish
the varying degrees of how the two philosophers differ.
In his work, Apology of the Socrates, Plato explains that he was one of the young people that
Socrates had been accused of ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Plato believed that hedonism would lead to the downfall of any civilization.
Contrary to these utopian views set upon by Plato, Aristotle focuses on how to work with the flaws
in humanity in The Politics. He explains that the society needs to work on its own to form the best
society it can while embracing the elements that Plato considers flawed in order to be truly
successful. According to Aristotle, perfecting human society was not the goal that needed to be
worked towards, rather improving the systems we already have in existence is the only way to
create something close to a utilitarian civilization. Unlike Plato, who focused on inductive
approaches to create a system that should be, Aristotle relied on deductive approaches to work
towards what actually could be. Because there was no evidence that societies of the world were in
need of the drastic reformation that Plato had suggested, Aristotle considered Utopia as an abstract
solution to a problem that was less than concrete.
Plato's utopia is comprised of three different, non–hereditary class systems where the Guardians,
who were supposed to be skilled in the matters of the government and were the absolute rulers who
were charged with knowing what was best for their societies, were divided into ruling and non–
ruling individuals; the non–rulers comprised of civil servants whereas the rulers were those who
created policies. The auxiliary individuals in such a society were the minor civil servant and the
army.
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The Political Theories Of Machiavelli, Niccolo Machiavelli...
A variety of political theories have been developed throughout the beginning of history in order to
provide organization for society. These theories stem from the different views of human nature,
which is what people are fundamentally like. In order for a political theory to function in a certain
society, it needs to understand how people think and act. Three prominent political theorists were
Aristotle, Niccolo Machiavelli, and Thomas Hobbes. Aristotle viewed humans as natural "political
animals" that have both rational and irrational sides to them, allowing for a government that
provided overall goodness for the people. Machiavelli took a more grim view of human nature that
shows humans as being naturally selfish and ambitious, so the government should be about
greatness and maintaining power. Hobbes believed that in their natural state, humans are nasty,
brutish, and untrustworthy, which forces the government to have to ensure peace and security while
allowing people to get to their desires. Of the three political theories, the theory of Machiavelli is
the most convincing as it incorporates the most realist view of human beings and how government
should operate. In order to understand a political theory, it is important to understand the theorist's
views of human nature. Aristotle believed that humans were naturally political, or as he called them
"political animals", which means that humans are inclined towards politics and innately want to
participate. He also believed
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Political Philosophy: The Theory Of The State By Thomas...
Stellenbosch University
Philosophy 212: Political Philosophy
Assignment 1
Roxanne Mooneys
17648130
20 February 2017
I, [Roxanne Mooneys, 1764830], hereby declare that this work is entirely my own, that I have
acknowledged all sources in the essay itself and not only in the bibliography, that all wording that is
not accompanied by a reference is my own, and that no part of this essay derives from a fellow
student. I understand that if any part of this declaration is found to be false, I will receive no marks
for this essay and further disciplinary steps will be taken against me.
Thomas Hobbes: The Leviathan ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
The field of Political Philosophy is concerned with understanding the notion of the state and ...
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The division of powers would only lead to the destruction of the very institution of power. Men
would much rather have the ability to follow their own teachings than follow that of a legislative
power.
Hobbes conclusion is thus that absolute authority is required to enforce the terms of a social
contract. The ideal is that all power is concentrated in a single figure of authority as this averts the
potential problem of having too many dominant wills within a state. Once a sovereign is put in place
it is accepted as the source of true knowledge and the enforcer of peace. All people are to accept and
respect the rights of the sovereign. Where political authority exists the duty of man is to accept
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Sovereignty Is A Modern Political Theory Of International
Sovereignty is a modern political theory of international relations that is supported by a multitude of
political theorists to rid the world of barbaric methods of competition. A sovereign is a supreme
political power that works best with the existence of state lines and the geographic location of the
people ruled under it to ease the organizational constraints of having a large number of people and
territories. Contrarily, Charles Beitz heavily criticizes this idea of a sovereign because of its lack of
attention to humans as individuals and the interests they should be free to pursue. In his eyes, state
lines should not be the only limit to which individuals should receive or have access to natural
resources. He believes a sovereign takes ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
When extended to the state level, this concept of forcefully acquiring goods and land leads to
vicious wars at the expense of a meaningful life for the persons living in the conflicting states.
Human rights and social justice are ignored, and in these states there is "no account of Time; no
Arts; no Letters; no Society; ... And the life of man, solitary, poore, nasty, brutish, and short."
During wartime, a state is only concerned with the concept of winning or ensuring that the opposing
side does not win. Life within the state is no longer worth living considering the people's interests
are not being represented. Competition for things without laws or control creates an environment of
free will in which the stakes are continually raised higher until there is nothing left of the state to
exist; therefore, an overarching power of law such as a sovereign must be put into effect to manifest
the significance of defining what is right versus wrong. To control the need for uneconomical wars,
a sovereign is created that will aid in the justification, preservation, and enforcement of laws. In The
Thirty Years' War, for example, Johannes Burkhardt states that a decision was met after the
dominant powers "concluded that the plurality of states did not necessarily represent 'anarchy' or
some flawed political concept that had to be done
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Political Theory of John Locke Essay
John Locke: Account of Political Society
What would the American government be like today if it was not for the mind and political theory of
John Locke? Some historians and philosophers believe that without John Locke our government
would only be a shadow of what it is today. Arguably, one of his most important political and
philosophical works was his Two Treatises of Government. There he argues that the function of the
state is to protect the natural rights of its citizens, primarily to protect the right to property. John
Locke, in many eyes, can be viewed as one of the father's of Democracy. He embraced many of
ideas in his theories on the state of nature and the rise of political society today. In Locke's political
society, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This in essence means that all members of the society should be equal under the law of justice, and
that no man is better than another, since all men are created equal, and all are equal before the laws
of nature. "Everyone as he is bound to preserve himself, and not quit his station willfully; so by the
like reason when his own preservation comes not in competition, ought he, as much as he can, to
preserve the rest of mankind, and may not unless it be to do justice on an offender, take any, or
impair the life, or what tends to the preservation of the life, the liberty, health, limb or goods of
another," (Locke pg 117, 6). That means that no individual has the right to take away the rights of
another. As a result, if a person commits a crime, the people have a right to punish him. For
example, if one man kills another man's sheep, then the people have the right to kill one of his sheep
without committing a crime. Besides the right to self–preservation, Locke also believed that all
individuals had a natural right to property, "the labour of his body, and the work of his hands, we
may say, are property his," (pg. 128, 27). This natural right carried with it two preconditions of
natural law. First, since God gave the earth to all individuals, people must be sure to leave enough
property for others to have, the second
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Theories Of Political Correctness
During the early 1990's the term political correctness surged into our everyday vocabulary. A lot of
generation X kids in the 1990's were finishing up high school or entering their early adult years and
starting families. The idea of not labeling people and being sensitive to people's physical, cognitive,
cultural difference became a common consciousness that formed among generation Xer's. For much
of our childhood it may have been common to hear our parents and grandparents refer to people by
their skin color or their disability. Sometimes this was meant with mean ambition but other times it
was just the way they were brought up and not meant to insult the person. However the idea of
political correctness informed us that these labels are hurtful to the individual applied too. Suddenly
we became more aware of our comments such as, "That's retarded," or That's so gay," may actually
be hurting someone's feelings and self–esteem who may struggling with a learning disability or is a
homosexual. As a generation we had to learn to not fall back on the familiar as well as encourage
our parents and grandparents to be more respectful of how these labels can hurt. We also were the
first generation to raise our children with the idea of political ... Show more content on
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People at this age are caught between an adult and a teenager. They have a lot more opportunity to
explore with less parental control and they are may be presented with responsibilities similar to an
adult. People at this age may not feel like they can define themselves as a result because they may
not have a lot of work experiences or may not have a lot of long term relationship experience. The
opportunities to experience with relationships or activities help the emerging adult to define who
their reciprocating self is as they enter their young adult
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Rational Choice Theory : Theories Of Political, Social,...
For nearly half a century rational choice theory (RCT) has dominated analyses of political, social,
and economic sciences. Due to the theory's objectivity and systematic predictability, rational choice
is able to provide a comforting procedure to studying the decision–making process. However to
truly gauge how and why actors make decisions, a more diversified and complex degree of emotions
and behaviors must also be analyzed. Despite our efforts to prove the contrary, actors are human,
therefore subjectivity and carefully crafted belief systems often contradict what would be considered
rational choices. Ultimately rational choice theory is an economic model based on cost–benefit
analyses. Hypothetically, the action that produces the maximum expected utility is considered the
rational decision. This theory (in terms of political decision–making) hinges upon four assumptions:
(1) the focus is on the government's action(s) that result from the process of rational choice theory,
(2) the government is a utility maximizer, it chooses the action with the highest expected payoff, (3)
the government is a unified and single entity, not a heterogeneous group of individuals, and (4) the
action selected is a result of calculations (more often than not a cost–benefit analysis). Overall these
assumptions help us create an objective model for decision making; one that provides a more
scientific approach by assuming definitive answers based on individual's assumptions thereby
eliminating
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Short Essay : Political Theory Essay
Final Essay: Political Theory The other day, after what was a particularly cumbersome day at school
and work, I found myself looking into the Texas sunset whilst stuck in traffic thinking, 'I wish I
could experience life before society. Free to live my life and roam as I please in a state free of
impediments and commitments.' This is not to say that I depicted this uncivilized life as a
simulacrum flowing as seamlessly as was portrayed in The Swiss Family Robinson, I merely
desired a break from what felt like a straightjacket bound by the orders of society. Furthermore, I
pondered if a world without society and structure could possibly be one conducive to a more
enjoyable, rewarding life. But the more I scrutinized this idea, I began to consider that this fleeting
thought was one with no basis due to the incredible feats mankind has accomplished as a result of
our enlightenment. Swiss philosopher, writer, and political theorist Jean Jacque Rousseau argues in
The Social Contract that my thought that life could be better without society was not only rational,
but laden with veracity. Rousseau's visionary theory made the assertion that humankind was once
brimming with natural goodness; and, were life to be played out pursuant to the desires that arose
during my car ride home, a society–free world would be the only way to achieve such a virtuous
mankind. Rousseau believed above all that "man is born free, but he is everywhere in chains." I do
concur with Jean Jacques
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The World Of Politics And Political Theory
Of the various thinkers examined in history, many have contributed to the world of politics and
paved the way for our modern day government. Not only have they built up a forum for how
policymaking is organized and overall studied, they have also illuminated new ways to carry out our
judicial systems. Two of the major component thinkers that attributed to the growth of politics as a
whole were Aristotle and Plato. These two philosophers not only presented new theories but also
changed how legislation is viewed by the world and potential lawmakers.
To bring this topic into being, we must first analyze what politics was and is today in our society
and how our views were constructed on this topic. According to the Meriam–Webster Dictionary, ...
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If asked what politics is, most would usually say that it is another way of conning people for their
votes due to well–constructed lies told by decently put together politicians making promises toward
the public that cannot be kept once elected.
Nonetheless, in the latter parts of the reading, it goes on to describe politics as the leadership value
or "leader" of a state. In order to elucidate the term of a leader, the book gave various anecdotes in
order to portray the qualities of a good leader. Webster's dictionary defines leadership as the position
or function of a person who guides or directs a group. With this given definition by Webster, it could
be assumed that politics is associated with leadership, because of the ramifications of the
presidential election and the political parties. In the words of Bernard Montgomery of the British
Field Marshal he also attempts to define the word leader by declaring that "Leadership is the
capacity and will to rally men and women to a common purpose and the character which inspires
confidence." Essentially, Mr. Montgomery is stating that the words of a leader can influence a group
to assemble around him/her to aid them in achieving their ultimate goal and in due course getting
them to where they want to go, which can be said of many political party elections that cause others
to rally behind
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Normative Political Theories: Jefferson, Hamilton, And...
Normative political theory is a philosophical and scientific way of studying political science in an
effort to determine social values to justify how governmental and public processes should function
(Pietrzyk–Reeves, 2017). Three normative political theories have been derived on the political
contributions of Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and Andrew Jackson. They are referred to
as the Jeffersonian, Hamiltonian, and Jacksonian models. The models are a contrast in political
philosophies on how government should be organized and function (Sylves, 2015). The Jeffersonian
model is based on the ideal that public managers should be responsive to the prevailing public
sentiment. That decision should be made in consultation with the public and mirror the consensus of
the people. Public managers need to understand the needs of the community and work to meet those
needs. The Hamiltonian Model is based on achieving results and relies on skill and information to
do so. Public managers should be accountable for whether or not they able to make decision that
bring about desired results. The Jacksonian model promotes the decentralization by empowering
local governments retuning political control to people. Jacksonian public mangers oppose a strong
federal government in favor of granting state and local ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Jeffersonian emergency mangers would work to mitigate and prepare for disasters and work
collaboratively with the various agencies to coordinate resources for an effective response.
Hamiltonian emergency mangers would rely on technical expertise and proven methods to develop
and implement a plan in response to disaster. This would allow them to act independently and
swiftly in response to a disaster. Jacksonian emergency mangers would excel with identifying local
needs and working with local and state agencies to respond to those needs (Sylves,
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Political Theory: Property
Introduction
One of the most confounding concepts in the discipline of political theory is the issue of property.
Classical philosophers like Plato and Aristotle dedicate a large part of their works to speculations
about the state of nature and property ownership. However, a comprehensive theoretical exploration
of the concept of private property ownership is credited to relatively modern philosophers like
Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau. The writings of Locke and Rousseau on
property ownership are quite fascinating to compare. Both philosophers portray the early stages of
man in what they refer to as the State of Nature. This paper takes a critical look at Rousseau's
conceptualization of private property and the state ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He is deeply opposed to Locke's idea of man as a sociable being. In his state of nature, man lacks
the ability to identify even their own offspring.
In the state of nature, Locke and Rousseau seem to agree on several issues especially in the
theoretical nature of their conceptualization. Rousseau concurs that State of Nature is a largely
nonviolent period. However, his revelation of the state of nature is much more appealing. While
Locke appears to insinuate that man has progressed out of this State of nature, Rousseau praises it as
a period of harmony and virtue.
In addition, Rousseau does not simply take the contemporary man and place him in the State of
Nature. Instead, he makes a convincing argument of a relatively different and primitive man who
slowly evolves into the modern version. Locke's version does not explain the evolution of man up
untill the state of nature. Rousseau's argument seems more convincing since facts that corroborate
the evolution theory have been unearthed. Therefore, Rousseau's theory appears entirely reasonable
in allocating diverse attributes to ancient man and contemporary man.
However, some of the attributes Rousseau's gives to ancient man and his life in the state of nature
are questionable. One these attributes is that man's basic desires were mostly satisfied. Rousseau's
idea of man relaxing while eating
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Locke’s Political Theory
Locke had undoubtedly aimed to defend ideas that are still being debated today. Rather distinctively,
Locke portrays sovereignty as belonging and residing with the people. Unlike Hobbes, we see the
state of nature as consisting of equality and there is an existence of natural rights that govern
behaviour. Yet, the question is to why a society may need a sovereign if the state of nature was so,
arguably, peaceful in the first place. Locke argues that this is because there are bound to be some
people infringing others' rights ('inconveniences'), which will then need to be sanctioned (Laslett
1988). Also, a state and separate judicial, legislative and executive branches are required to protect
private property. If the government ceases to act ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
There is a clear danger of bias within Locke's arguments here.
Moreover, it has also been argued that Locke's political theory is completely flawed as consent is
very weak, or maybe does not even exist. The years and histories of politics have witnessed many
inter–state wars, civil wars, human sufferings, revolutions, uprisings and still today, there are many
groups in societies that are constantly marginalised and silenced. In a world of violence and endless
cycles of problems, it may be naïve to say that people consent to their governments and the
arrangements on their lands. Ironically, it is precisely the existence of a certain type of government
that leads to problems and uprisings, as populations can become dissatisfied and unhappy. Yet, this
criticism may be regarded as pessimistic and Locke does indeed address this issue when he argues
that people have a right to rise against their governments, when they are dissatisfied and thus give
consent to a new government (although this may, in reality, be very difficult and sometimes even
impossible practically).
Locke's political theory embraces the idea of consent as Locke believes that a poor peasant under a
government is still in a better situation than somebody who lives under no rule. As Hume writes,
therefore, people may consent from "necessity" (Haakonssen 1994, p.194) but this is beneficial.
They are then able to "live under his dominion"
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Foucault 's Influence On Political Theory
Jordan Riggs
Pos 353
Political Theory Essay
John Hultgren
10/30/2014
Essay Foucault is a very famous name when it comes to political theory. In our contemporary theory
politics course, one of the required reading materials was Foucault's Discipline and Punish. Foucault
had these very strong ideas about punishment, especially about, the "modern penal system" or
otherwise known as prison. Foucault was very analytic about discipline and punishment prior to the
eighteenth century. In the beginning of Discipline and Punish, Foucault explains how prior to the
eighteenth century, punishment was something that was used as severe torture to the human body, as
well as explaining how when people were punished, punishments usually were public and or
ceremonial. Foucault had strong ideas and he mentioned some very important terms to make his
argument. To help the reader of this essay, some very important key terms will be defined. These
key terms include, knowledge, power, discipline, panopticism, and politics. Hopefully these key
terms can help the reader understand Foucault's beliefs and ideas, as well as the second part of the
essay where Foucault's ideas will be related to modern day pop culture. Two very important terms
that are the foundation of Foucault's work are, knowledge and power. The root of Foucault's analytic
would be those two previous words. Foucault does not view power as a negative thing, because he
believes it is something that is always going to exist. Foucault
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
The Main Ideas of Liberal Political Theory
Examine the main ideas of Liberal political theory
It is perhaps safe to say that the most prominent political philosophy in contemporary era is
liberalism. Liberalism is based on the ideas of liberal political theorists of the last three hundred
years. Among these ideas, the first and most important deals with the question of liberty. Political
theorists such as John Locke and John Stuart Mill argued that liberty of individual citizens must be
upheld by the state. Mill particularly stated that the state should be liberal by default. The burden of
proving that liberty should be restricted or prohibited should lie on the states. Unless they can
provide such proof, all citizens should by presumption be at liberty. Locke, Rousseau, and Hobbes
stated that liberty could be restricted under certain circumstances. For instance, when the state is
threatened by a revolt, and since the state is the guarantor of liberty of all its subjects, the state is
justified in curtailing some liberal policies but temporarily. The government under liberal political
theory is viewed as a necessary evil. The theory suggests that the power and the role of the state
should be minimized. There should also be a balance of power in the state. Democracy is essential
for liberal political theory. Citizens should enjoy both liberty and the freedom to elect or, in the
absence of liberal political order, overthrow the government. But the liberties of citizens cannot be
guaranteed in a state of anarchy.
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The Political Theory Of John Locke And Jean Jacques Rousseau
Within the field of political theory, the notion of private property is often discussed and historically
has been a difficult philosophical argument to overcome. The ability to govern over land and other
material objects privately compared to communally has been disputed and shown to be problematic
for philosophers because of the idea of the development of the individual. Modern thinkers John
Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau also fall into this category. During the 18th century, Locke and
Rousseau excelled in the world of philosophy, extending their views to broaden the horizons of
government and political principles. Both men begin them by stating their version of the State of
Nation, just as Hobbes did before them through his writings. Once men find their way out of the
State of Nature in both societies, Locke and Rousseau provide natural orders which allow the
discussion of property and the private rights of man. Locke argues for private property as a positive
to mankind, allowing the individual to flourish while Rousseau opposes it and the division of labor
will break down mankind's virtue. In the Second Treatise and Discourse on Inequality, both men
demonstrate conflicting ideas of the human state of nature, which lead to their differing opinions on
the progression of mankind out of that state and the privatization of property. Political power is very
important to both me, having devoted their names and philosophies to it. To Locke, political power
is "a right of
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What Is The Political Theory Of The Prince By Niccolo...
Businesses fail all the time. Often times, this is due to poor leadership with a lack of insight. To be a
successful leader, you must know how to gain respect among your employees without making them
despise you. This is a very difficult task, but luckily running a business is a lot like politics. There is
so much information known today about the politics of the past, which can now be drawn on. One
of the most famous books about politics ever written is The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli. This
work provides an extensive look at the politics of the Renaissance era and how one could be a
successful leader in that society. By applying Machiavelli's political theory to your work life, you
will be able to successfully lead any office. According to Machiavelli's theory, in order to run a
successful company, you must be able to control your people, while still, hopefully, getting them to
like you. An important aspect of running a company is to avoid hatred. If you are hated, it is
unlikely that you will get the respect that you deserve. Really the best way to go about gaining this
respect is by obtaining popular support among your workers. While it is important not to alienate
the higher ups, the groups that really hold the most power are the more average workers because
they are the majority. If you have a choice between making the leaders happy and making everyone
else happy, choose to please the majority. However, if you are put into a situation where you can
only satisfy one
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Political Theory Of Justice, Veil Of Ignorance And Nozick...
Intro:
John Rawls a political theorist engages in various political theories and arguments that contradict,
support, and scrutinizes others theories made by other notable political theorist. Rawls contemplates
usage of theories such as The Theory of Justice, Veil of Ignorance and Nozick's Entitlement Theory
which will be discussed within this analysis for their relation to society and what benefits or
aliments they hold if any on society's effective function.
History of Rawls
John Rawls wrote several highly influential articles in the 19950`s and 1960`s, his first book, A
Theory of Justice (1971), revitalized the social–contract tradition, using it to articulate and defend a
detailed vision of egalitarian liberalism. In Political Liberalism [PL] (1993), he recast the role of
political philosophy, accommodating it to the effectively permanent "reasonable pluralism" of
religious, philosophical, and other comprehensive doctrines or worldviews that characterize modern
societies. He explains how philosophers can characterize public justification and the legitimate,
democratic use of collective coercive power while accepting that pluralism. (Richardson)
Rawls believes that in a situation where a society is established of people who are self–interested,
rational, and equal, the rules of justice are established by what is mutually acceptable and agreed
upon by all the people. This scenario of negotiating the laws of that society that will be commonly
agreed upon and beneficial to
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Theories Of Classical Political Economy
Economic system in the world is mostly productive in America this is due to the constant unlimited
wants of its people and the fact that most people have high standards of living (Rosefielde, 2008).
An individual has different wants and at any particular time an individual can satisfy his or her
wants through purchasing these goods therefore there is an unlimited wants for goods and services.
In recent times people consume goods that they don't produce they sell or provide services then the
income they gain from the services they purchase the goods that they want to consume. In this paper
I will discuss the developed theories of the classical political economy developed theories and
discuss on their different characteristics. These theories were mainly concerned with the changing
aspects of economic growth in different centuries. Classical political economy is the political
economy during industrial revolution from the 18th century to the 19th century. The theories of
classical political economy ask some specific questions whose answer creates the differences
between them. Some of the asked questions are what does the surplus consist of and what defines its
size, what is its origin, to whom is it distributed to, what causes or rather defines its growth over
time. In addition the economists also ask what happens to the relative shares of surplus obtained by
the various classes of revenue appropriators as the surplus increases. Lastly how does the
distributive relation impact
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Comparing Schmitt 's And Arendt 's Theory Of The Political
Ruling a society has taken many forms, be it the the cruel hand of dictator or the frantic shared
thoughts of democracy; an organized state can arguably be ruled by only one end of the spectrum.
To conceptualize this view, philosophers Schmitt and Arendt present their interpretations on the
political. The central thesis to my paper is then, to present both Schmitt's and Arendt's concept of the
political and discern which is the most viable from of governing. Schmitt's structure of the political
rest in the friend–enemy distinction dictated by the sovereign. Opposite his view is Arendt, who
perceives the political existing with the masses so as to ensure happiness exist. In today's political
climate the oscillation between these two views is the masses believe in Arendt's theory, while in
actual practice of power, Schmitt's view is currently exercised. The political is then argued as either
an autocratic regime or a democratic government. Where Arendt agues for the later, it's feasibility is
highly improbable. Schmitt's concept of the former, though practiced today, is not completely
correct but, presents the best form of rule. The order of a state is best ruled by a sovereign so as to
allow the country to realize it's full capabilities. For Schmitt the political exist where a sovereign
dictates the polity, recognizing the moral distinction of a group form others and reconciling extreme
differences through violence; thus a friend–enemy distinction exists that acts as a
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The Political Theories Of The Notorious Philosophers-...
The political theories of the notorious philosophers– Confucius, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle,
Machiavelli, Marx, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau– have significantly impacted the American
Political System of today through their timeless appeal. If these philosophers were alive today, what
would their perception be of the American Political System to date? Confucius, a Chinese
philosopher, in 551 BCE – 479 BCE created Confucianism, centered upon restoring "peace and
order." According to Simon Worrall with National Geographic, the fundamental reason for
Confucianism was to return prosperity to China. Confucius viewed the family as the foundation of
society, believing the man or the father were the heads of the household and their wives and children
as their subjects. Thus, Confucius promoted for a male–dominated society. One could say that the
United States has modeled a patriarchal society, regarding gender inequality in politics and in the
economy. For instance, a substantial disparity exists between men and women who hold high
political positions. Granted, women can vote–nineteenth amendment ratified in 1920–and have all
the same rights as men in current American society, but for over a century women didn't have the
same rights as men. Significant strides were made in women's suffrage during President Woodrow
Wilson's candidacy when his wife, Edith Wilson, brought to her husband's attention the fact that she
couldn't vote for her own husband. Even though women were considered
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Bureaucratic Political Theory Paper
The organisational dynamics of guilds can be explored using the Bureaucratic Politics model, which
can be applied when there are multiple actors engaged with different priorities and perceptions
(McFarland & Gomez, 2013). The Bureaucratic Politics theory contends that the multiple players in
an organisation have different resources and power, and the actors will enter a game of exchange or
bargaining according to agreed rules (McFarland & Gomez, 2013). Each of the millions of World of
Warcraft players have resources of interest to other players, such as quest items, knowledge or
access to trade skill masters. Guilds are formed to enable groups to have access to resources and
enhance their ability to advance through the game.
Coalitions, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
As outlined on the WOWWiki (2013), "you shouldn't expect free handouts for no effort".
3. The process of choice is where mutually acceptable trades are arranged (McFarland & Gomez,
2013). There is a better chance of success for all players if the group works together, rather than as
individuals, so the group must work together to make decisions. At the same time each team
member is likely to want to protect their own parochial interests such as advancing one's own
personal quest, developing their own skills, or gaining power within the guild. Therefore, the
exchange process must be negotiated so that resources in the form of skills, collective knowledge, or
quest items are shared in a manner that is mutually acceptable for group members.
4. Each actor trades, trying to improve their position, fulfilling their preferences/identity as best they
can until no more legal or mutually acceptable trades are possible (McFarland & Gomez, 2013). The
guild continues to reach collective decisions through the exchange of resources in order to advance
through the various stages and challenges of the game.
While the Bureaucratic Politics model provides a useful lens for examining guilds as coalitions that
enhance mutual interests and make favourable decisions, there are other elements that influence the
organisational dynamics of guilds that are not explicitly discussed in this theory. The Bureaucratic
Politics theory asserts that
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Environmental Issues in World Political Theories Essay
Environmental Issues in World Political Theories
For the first time in history, human beings have realized that the environment can be destroyed by
human activity. The massive cutting down of forests, draining and flooding of bogs and lakes,
changing the flow of rivers, and building of harmful factories and power plants, all of this
contributes to damaging our environment. In the world right now an agreement has not been reached
about to what extent are humans responsible for the changes in the environment on Earth. World
Political forces according to their interests approach environmental issues in different ways,
following the three main World Political Theories.
Realism ======= ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The most important tool that they use to put into practice states' foreign policies is military force.
Realists acknowledge the environmental problems of the world, but think that they should be dealt
with on national levels. Thus every state takes care of their own environmental problems. They
believe that NGO's don't have the same power as states. For example, the realists recognize an event
like the Johannesburg Conference but they participate in it for different purposes. Not to reach
compromises with the rest of the world but to keep up date and to form political alliances in order to
promote national interests.
USA is a good example of Realism in practice. USA didn't sign the Kyoto agreement, which limited
the CO2 emissions, since it's not in their interest to reduce production.
Liberalism ==========
Liberals believe in progress. The main idea is that humans are perfectible and democracy is needed
to make it happen. Contrary to realists, liberals don't think that war is the natural condition of world
politics. Main actors, in their opinion, are NGO's, starting from multinational corporations to
terrorist groups. They don't deny that states are important but they believe that the co–operation
between different types of actors is essential. They stress the importance of environmental issues.
Liberals think that environmental
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Three Theories To Explain The American Political Process
Presently, there are three theories that have been posed to explain the American political process.
They are, elite theory, hyperpluralism, and pluralism. While all of them have sufficient evidence in
regard to discussion and debate, pluralism undoubtedly best explains the American political process.
Pluralism states that our democracy is best achieved by the existence and cooperation between
various groups, and individuals, which participate in government by means of election. In context of
American politics, pluralism is the core which our political process revolves around. Pluralism has
been historically important, in regards to religion, and American society. This has held true since the
American colonies liberated themselves from
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Modern Political Theory: Rousseau and Machiavelli Essay
Machiavelli and Rousseau, both influential philosophers, were innovators of their time. They
represented different ideas on what the state of nature and government should consist of, having
both similarities and differences. Their viewpoints evolved from different time periods, which make
them unique. Machiavelli, the sixteenth century Italian diplomat expressed, that a Prince should be
unethical in achieving power. He argued that to be successful in politics certain qualities were of
importance and ethics could not stand in the way. Machiavelli stated that a Prince's power should be
maintained in being feared and loved, and possessing control over the people. Rousseau on the other
hand was an eighteen century philosopher and writer. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He says as their Prince people would do anything to protect him but when he is in danger they turn
away. He understood that most people act for self interest and not for the interest of others. He saw
that political success would not depend on chance or luck but through the eyes of fear. Machiavelli
says, "The Prince must none the less make himself feared in such a way that, if he is not loved, at
least he escapes being hated." (10). [Burton & Dworkin] He perceives that social order is continuous
and impossible solve. Not everyone will be happy with the decisions he makes but as long as the
majority agrees with him, he shouldn't have a problem. Machiavelli knew that a Prince must secure
his power and must be powerful enough to keep it. The idea that doing anything to get this power,
whether it was moral or not was the most important aspect. "A prince should not worry if he incurs
reproach for his cruelty so long as he keeps his subjects united and loyal." (Machiavelli 9). [Burton
&Dworkin] He did not see all men as equal. He perceived that some men existed to become rulers
and others did not. In my opinion I think this is true in almost any government. He also believes that
honesty could not always be a standard because some times you had to lie to get what you needed.
In a sense saying, men who want to have more power are willing to be unethical to claim it.
Machiavelli expresses very dark perspectives in the Prince which makes it easier for me to relate to
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Contemporary Political Theory Should We Have On...
Policy–makers need a "certain measure of agreement on what is just and unjust" (Rawls, 1999: 6) to
coordinate their policies efficiently, meet expectations and grant stability in society. Answering
whether policy–makers should listen to a statement like this, we will explore what impact
contemporary political theory should have on policy–makers and examine the nature of their
relationship.
Due to its limited scope, this essay cannot elucidate whether policy–makers should listen to natural
scientists or economists, comparatively. In what follows I shall focus entirely on Rawls's A Theory
of Justice (TJ) and Nozick's Anarchy, State, and Utopia (ASU). I furthermore assume that political
theorists and policy–makers are two separate parties and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
Rawls convincingly illuminates that individual policy–makers can critically reflect upon their self–
interest by internally assuming impartiality (Rawls, 1999: 119–120). This intuitive "method for
understanding the role of justice" (Campbell, 1988: 82) serves as a framework for unbiased policy–
making. Despite various political attitudes, institutions rest on an underlying consent about what is
(un)just. In this sense, the OP makes individuals see policy goals from distance (Rawls, 1999: 19).
Beyond that, by listening to political theory, policy–makers learn to evaluate how we speak about
justice (see Campbell, 1988: 9). Intuitive societal debates about who deserves what should be heard
so that policy–makers are not only informed by lobbyists. Even if parliament does not discuss
political theories, they translate into culture and beliefs. Listening could make policy–makers reflect
upon their own normative grounds, becoming aware of the principles they should act
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Social Contract As A Dominant Political Theory Essay
Social Contract As A Timeless Dominant Political Theory
Introduction
The concept of social contract was introduced by early thinkers like Socrates and Plato. The social
contract is a political theory that involves a tacit agreement between members of society group that
allows them to collaborate and promote mutual benefits, as well explains the legitimacy and
authority of government. This concept is further explained and defended by 17th and 18th centuries
philosophers like Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, who helped to shape these theories and lay down
the foundation for today's democracy and the role of the government in society. Social contract
theories had a profound impact on modern Western society, specifically, America and France.
Subsequently, it had a dramatic ideological influence on the development of democracies around the
world.
However, not everyone agreed with the idea of social contract and there are other political theories
which downplay its importance in the role of the government in the community's life. Theorists,
such as Humes, Mandeville, and Smith declare there is no such contract/agreement in existence, but
rather maximizing peoples' utility, market forces, and individual selfishness are the driving forces of
a given society.
Nevertheless, we need to recognize the importance of social contract because it provides a
conceptual basis for the development of a democratic and just society. In addition, social contract,
through its constant
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Political Theory Of Justice, Veil Of Ignorance And Nozick...
Intro:
John Rawls a political theorist engages in various political theories and arguments that contradict,
support, and scrutinizes others theories made by other notable political theorist. Rawls contemplates
usage of theories such as The Theory of Justice, Veil of Ignorance and Nozick's Entitlement Theory
which will be discussed within this analysis for their relation to society and what benefits or
aliments they hold if any on society's effective function.
History of Rawls
John Rawls wrote several highly influential articles in the 19950`s and 1960`s, his first book, A
Theory of Justice (1971), revitalized the social–contract tradition, using it to articulate and defend a
detailed vision of egalitarian liberalism. In Political Liberalism [PL] (1993), he recast the role of
political philosophy, accommodating it to the effectively permanent "reasonable pluralism" of
religious, philosophical, and other comprehensive doctrines or worldviews that characterize modern
societies. He explains how philosophers can characterize public justification and the legitimate,
democratic use of collective coercive power while accepting that pluralism. (Richardson)
Rawls believes that in a situation where a society is established of people who are self–interested,
rational, and equal, the rules of justice are established by what is mutually acceptable and agreed
upon by all the people. This scenario of negotiating the laws of that society that will be commonly
agreed upon and beneficial to
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Political And Economic Theory Is An Often Contentious Subject
Political and economic theory is an often contentious subject as it relates to how much interference
governments should be allowed when it comes to rights and welfare of the public. One of the most
debated topics asks the question "is it a part of the government 's role to take wealth away from the
rich to give to the poor?" John Rawls and Robert Nozick offer two differing theories about the role
of government in distributing wealth.
John Rawls argues that a just society must have equal rights for all. He defines a society as an
organization of individuals who work together and create a social contract of moral and immoral
actions. The goal of any society is to improve the lives of those who inhabit it, contradicting
Nozick's belief that ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The second principle is called the difference principle which states that social or economic
inequalities are only just if they help the most disadvantaged members of society. In this portion,
Rawls does agree that material inequality is a necessity to encourage economic competition, but
states that it is only just if it is then used to help those who have been disadvantaged by their social
position. Rawls proposes that the difference principle is the core component of distributive justice
and therefore justifies the redistribution of wealth from rich to poor at the hands of the state.
Rawls develops the idea of an "original position" as a conception point and a justification for this
theory of distributive justice. In this original position, an individual is standing behind a veil of
ignorance which blocks out social class, economic class, sexuality or natural talents. In this place,
an individual is in the position to make the most basic moral decisions because they face no external
bias. If one knows no place in society, a rational person will make decisions that help those who are
worse off. In the original position, the principles of justice would be agreed to by any rational
human. This position supports the idea that while each person might have a different background,
they should have a fair chance to pursue goals and the equality of opportunity despite these
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
Thomas Hobbes And John Locke 's Political Theories Essay
Analyzing Thomas Hobbes and John Locke's Political Theories and Justifying if these
Governmental Officials Have Legitimate Reason To Hold Secrets from the Public
Systems of government across the globe are utilized to various extents. Similarly to John Locke's
vision of government, the United States stands by a system of representative democracy. This means
that our government highly values that the people of a society hold the power of where the direction
of their state goes through electing officials. In Locke's book, Two Treatises, he states that if a
government official extends their power in any way, other than to better citizens' lives, then the
people have the right to replace those elected into power (77). However, Thomas Hobbes, in The
Leviathan, explains that it is human nature to always have self–interest in mind. Hobbes confirms
that even though he is open to representative democracy or having multiple officials lead as an
assembly, due to human nature getting in the way, having more than a single governmental official
ruling the state as a monarch is not ideal. Hillary Clinton, and her use of private emails, is a modern
example that conceptualizes these two theories of Locke and Hobbes. The two philosophers, Locke
and Hobbes, would approach this situation in two parallel ways. From Locke's belief of allowing the
people of the state to hold the overall power, he would suggest to first evaluate to see if the
intentions of Clinton were strictly for the good of the
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...

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Political Theory's Evolution From Plato To Modern Times

  • 1. Political And Political Theories Of Political Science Introduction Politics play a major role in every country and those who hold office have had some prior experience in politics before achieving the seat they now hold. Many of these politicians have backgrounds in Political Science that gave them the knowledge to pursue politics. Political Scientists study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. They research ideas that will help them analyze government policies, trends and other political issues. Political Science is a highly competitive field that requires many skills to achieve a job within the industry. However, once the time is taken to gain these skills, the benefits of the job are substantial. Job Description According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), "Political Scientist typically research political subjects such as the U.S political system, relations between the United States and foreign countries, and political ideologies ("Political Scientist")." These scientists collect data from the public and turn them into surveys and other forms of assistance for the government. Scientists should be able to predict social and political trends within a country to take steps that are necessary to continue their work with better precision. Due to this, scientists spend a lot of time researching the subject they are focusing on. This research plays a vital role in Political Science. Scientists conduct research in four sub–fields on Political Science. These fields are: American politics, comparative ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 2. Feminism Theory Of The Political, Economic, And Social... Feminism theory according to Merriam–Webster definition is the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes (p.1). There are four major categories of feminist theories– Gender Differences, Gender Inequality, Gender Oppression and Structural Oppression. These theories analyze both women and men's roles in society, they also question the roles of gender between men and women. This includes how class, race, ethnicity and age are viewed from a feminist perspective. The main reason that feminist theories are used is to educate society and to improve the lives of women by explaining each of the four major categories of feminist theories and how they are structured in society in order to get a better understanding of how they work. The first theory is Gender Differences and according to Ritzer & Stepnisky (2013), this theory is broken down into two major categories: Cultural Feminism and Existential (or Phenomenological) Feminism (p .202). Cultural feminism focuses on the biological differences between men and women, and the roles they play in society. This is a radical theory that emphasizes the controversial idea of how male masculinity has dominated over the female gender. Cultural feminist want to overcome the inequality placed upon them by today's male dominated society in hopes to better the lives of women. The second category in gender differences is, Existential (or Phenomenological) Feminism. This category is different from Cultural Feminism ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 3. The Theory Of The Political Economy The theory of the political economy in the context on media studies, is that behind every media product, has a commercial and economic imperative and as such, has particular impacts on the media content that would not exist if such imperatives ceased to exist. It is these impacts that both limit media products, and allow media products of a particular nature exist. A political economic approach in the production of media is in contrary to the nature of media itself; accuracy, integrity and authenticity are lost in favor to economic power. A capitalist society is one that exists within an exploitative framework. Our society exists and functions due to labor being exploited by those in a lower social class with the intention of economic profit for those who exploit others. (Marx and Moore, 2001) Ignoring the morality of this ideology, it enables a functioning society to a particular degree. When this theory is applied within the context of a political economy of media production, we can begin to understand its value. The nature of a capitalist society means that human labor worth a monetary value and that is exchanged between the exploiter and the exploited. As such, without a political economic influence, media products would cease to exist. Funding facilitates the production of media – labor is required to create, produce, distribute and consume media. All media is influenced by the political economic circumstances, however, the extent in which this model impacts the ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 4. Political Theory Has Changed Over The History Of The World Political theory has changed over the history of the discipline. Two of the most influential and arguably most important theorists are the Greek philosopher Plato, and the Renaissance's Niccolo Machiavelli. These two characters represent the beginning of idealistic political thought, and a more realist and contemporary way that politics are looked at even today. The ideals of these two will be discussed and dissected, to some extent to show how unobtainable Plato's ideal is compared to Machiavelli's realism that is seen in today's political atmosphere in various types of political systems seen throughout the world. Looking at Plato, you must understand where and what the timeframe he lived in. He was born in Classical Greece in the year 427. He was educated, sophisticate, wise, intelligent, and also wealthy. These were traits that in this time period put you at the top of societal elites. Plato was a very gifted orator and speaker, giving him the ability to reason and discuss any topic really, with the ability to win arguments and persuade people. Due to his status in society, he was very idealistic and used this idealism to reason how a perfect society should be constructed and run. Plato discusses and sets forth his political ideal in the Republic. He uses platonic type writing in the book, using characters to discuss, make points and arguments about how to form such a society. The ideal city, or state even, is a model for how we as people look at ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 5. Political Theory Paper There are different types of communities within academic disciplines. According to Ann M. Johns, "Discourse Communities and...", each community serves a different purpose and has a specific goal intended for its readers. In this instance, academic communities depict that there are distinct fields that every individual chooses to be part of, and how each community has its own expectations and style of writing. The academic disciplines range from biology, political, science, history, and many more. In this paper, I will state the particular expectations that the political science community expects from its scholars within the political theory field. Also, how some political science writers use similar or different writing traits to get their message ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... Miller remarks, "I guess I would say we are interested in being clear as possible explaining how connections between concepts work. We are interested in establishing conceptual connections or conceptual logics." It is important to implement connections that allow young scholars to analyze every aspect of capitalism both positive and negative; and to have the ability of explaining it and a high degree of wise vocabulary. Therefore, a political science community is different from that of a History discourse that suggests its writers to elaborate their work in greater detail that will create a new perspective rather than just focusing on the argument itself. In addition, the rhetorical device ethos is important to support a writer's claim. An academic journal, The Slaves of Institutionalism? A Comment of Bell and Hindmoor, by Michael Moran, illustrates the impact that ethos has on the audience. The main point of the article is to critique other international political economy written analysis on the 2008 global crisis from other writers' point of view. The author critiques the work of other colleagues, but does so in a respectable manner. It contains many citations that make the author's argument credible and valid. Moran ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 6. Essay about Rational Choice Theory in Political Science Rational Choice Theory in Political Science According to one of rational choice theory's prominent and more thoughtful contemporary exponents, Peter C. Ordeshook, "four books mark the beginning of modern political theory: Anthony Downs's An Economic Theory of Democracy (1957), Duncan Black's Theory of Committees and Elections (1958), William H. Riker's A Theory of Political Coalitions (1962), and James Buchanan and Gordon Tullock's The Calculus of Consent (1962). These volumes, along with Kenneth Arrow's Social Choice and Individual Values (1951), began such a wealth of research that political scientists today have difficulty digesting and synthesizing all but small parts of it. Consequently, the full value of this research often goes ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... First I will provide an overview of what rational choice theory is and why it has staked such a prominent position in the discipline of political science. In this section I conclude that rational choice theory has indeed developed advanced methodologies at telling us how rational agents should behave. Then in my second section I will show, using the empirical case of the free–rider problem and collective action, as well as the case of suicide terrorism, that rational choice theory cannot adequately account for actual political phenomena. In my third section I will provide some reasons for why this is the case. Finally, in my concluding section I will posit a theoretical framework incorporating some refinements to the assumptions behind rational choice theory that would better aid a predictive (but not universalist) political science. What is Rational Choice Theory? Rational choice theory is actually more than one theory per se, but the basic similarities among its variants mean that they can be intelligibly amalgamated for the purposes of critiquing its implementation in political science. Therefore public choice theory, positive political science, rational actor models, and the economic approach to politics, among others, refer to what we may call rational choice theory for the purposes of this essay. (See Green and Shapiro 1994, xi. ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 7. The Political Theory Of The American Founding, By Thomas West The Founders attached great significance to property rights in their America. While many acknowledge this, progressives tend to criticize the Founders for this attachment. Critiques claim the Founders had selfish motives when establishing the constitution; a document which provided generous protections for private property. Therefore protecting the wealthy elite against the democratic majority. Could the progressive left be correct that the Founders' individualism was appropriate to an agrarian pioneering nation, but is destructive to the modern industrial state? If so, then possible direction from the national government would be needed, leading to big government, which is exactly what the Founders did not want to see happen. Thomas West provides great clarity and strong reasoning when discussing the founders understanding of property rights. From his book, The Political Theory of the American Founding, West makes clear that the Founders held property rights to be as important as other human rights. In fact, at times they may have even insisted that the right to acquire and possess private property was in some ways ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... Many try to say that possession only refers to the rich and the poor cannot posses if they have nothing. West notes this, claiming the Founders thought this out, "the Founders anticipated this criticism by insisting that the right to property includes not only possession of what one has, but also acquisition of what one needs," (West, pg.317). West then point to the Virginia Declaration of Rights which states, "that "all men...have certain inherent rights," including "the means of acquiring and possessing property"," (West, pg.317). "In the Founding, the right to acquire property precedes the right to possess it because the right to acquire is the foundation of the right to possess, not only because of the needs of the poor, but also because of the natural right to liberty itself," (West, ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 8. Political Scientists: Theories Of American Democracy Political scientists have developed several theories about American democracy, including majoritarian theory, elite theory, and theories of pluralism. The government ought to do what the majority of the people want, and elites decide what is good or bad for the people, and compromising decisions. (Textbook, pg.,15–17) So, our democracy is not just simple concept, but is complex. Among these theories, elitism seems outstanding issue to me because it can make all the rules, or laws only for their own interest or advantage. I wonder how we are able to trust those people only by the education they have received. They can do all the work only for their interest, not for the people. Even if they insist it is good for the public, or they have better ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 9. Concept of Freedom in Political Theory Why is the concept of freedom so contested in political theory? (Word maximum: 1,500) Freedom is an important concept in Western politics, strongly entwined as it is with ideas of liberalism. Yet, as suggested by the question, the concept is one which is hotly debated. Indeed, political agents attempt to control the political agenda through promotion of their particular definition. This essay will look at the ways freedom has been defined by different theorists over the years. It will also look at how freedom is linked with and explained through different theo–ries and ideologies. It will then go on to look at how these different theories and ideologies may shape the conceptions of freedom we find in our daily lives. Different ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... This approach may be considered stifling of both innovation and effort, since anything above the average will not be rewarded. By contrast, if equality of opportunity is achieved, then some will accumulate more wealth and power than others, giving them effectively more freedom. John Rawls (1971, cited in Middleton, 2005) introduced two principles of justice, the first of which was that 'each person is to have an equal right to the most extensive liberty compatible with a similar liberty for others'. Rawls attempted to address the question of inequality through the second of his principles: the 'difference principle'. In this he said that it was acceptable for some to be better off than others as long as by doing so the poorest people also benefitted in some way. In other words, inequality was acceptable if some of the extra benefit were redistributed to those most in need. This approach is an example of positive freedom. However, Isaiah Berlin (1969, cited in Smith, 2005), known as a chief architect of theories of positive and negative freedom, saw dangers in this approach too. He argued that it was wrong to ascribe to individuals a set of common needs and desires. Moreover, he considered that the surrender of individual freedom for collective self–rule could result in individual rights being violated. He concluded that a measure of both ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 10. Political Theory: Comparing Locke, Rousseau and Plato Essay Locke: What is the purpose of politics – we could live in the state of nature, we don't need contract or soverign – life, liberty and property State of nature: men live according to reason and governed by reason – man exists in the state of nature in perfect freedom to do as they want, a state of perfect freedom – not necessarily good or bad, bit is calm and peaceful – men give up some of their freedom to secure the advantages of civilized socity – men have the right to protect their freedom (killing if necessary) – bound by the laws of nature – contrast with hobbes: everyone has the right over everything, there exist no private property – Liberty to do as ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... First part says that the aim of the contract is to protect and defend the common goods of each member. Consistent with Locke's claims that the purpose of society is protect the security of each members. Rousseau adds a second and more disctinctly original claim. The contract must ensure the conditions for mutual protection, but also in uniting with one another each person obeys only himself and remains as free as he was before. Isn't the essence of the social contract giving up part of our natural freedom? How can we remain as free. Total alienation of each associate together with all of his rights to the entire community Total alienation, entire community. To ensure the terms of the agreements, persons must totally give themselves up for the social contract. When we alienate ourselves, this must be given to the entire community. This is to ensure that the general will works. General will is only legitimate sovereign. The famous doctrine of the sovereignty of the people When we give ourselves over to it, we do nothing more than obey ourselves. Sovereign is not third party, it is simply the people as a whole acting in their collective capacity. How do we remain as free as we were before? Formula for freedom or tyranny of the majority? Only through total alienation do we remain free, because nobody is ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 11. Comparing The Political Theories Of Two Philosophers Dominic Bressi Prof. Catherine Chaput CH 201 15 October 2014 When comparing the political theories of two renowned philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle, one must first focus on the merits of each of their own theories in depth. Plato is often considered as the first writer of political philosophy while Aristotle is considered the first political scientist. Though Aristotle was once a student of Plato, the two differ on the topic of how to best improve society for the benefit of mankind. Thus, both of their theories need to be investigated to establish the varying degrees of how the two philosophers differ. In his work, Apology of the Socrates, Plato explains that he was one of the young people that Socrates had been accused of ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... Plato believed that hedonism would lead to the downfall of any civilization. Contrary to these utopian views set upon by Plato, Aristotle focuses on how to work with the flaws in humanity in The Politics. He explains that the society needs to work on its own to form the best society it can while embracing the elements that Plato considers flawed in order to be truly successful. According to Aristotle, perfecting human society was not the goal that needed to be worked towards, rather improving the systems we already have in existence is the only way to create something close to a utilitarian civilization. Unlike Plato, who focused on inductive approaches to create a system that should be, Aristotle relied on deductive approaches to work towards what actually could be. Because there was no evidence that societies of the world were in need of the drastic reformation that Plato had suggested, Aristotle considered Utopia as an abstract solution to a problem that was less than concrete. Plato's utopia is comprised of three different, non–hereditary class systems where the Guardians, who were supposed to be skilled in the matters of the government and were the absolute rulers who were charged with knowing what was best for their societies, were divided into ruling and non– ruling individuals; the non–rulers comprised of civil servants whereas the rulers were those who created policies. The auxiliary individuals in such a society were the minor civil servant and the army. ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 12. The Political Theories Of Machiavelli, Niccolo Machiavelli... A variety of political theories have been developed throughout the beginning of history in order to provide organization for society. These theories stem from the different views of human nature, which is what people are fundamentally like. In order for a political theory to function in a certain society, it needs to understand how people think and act. Three prominent political theorists were Aristotle, Niccolo Machiavelli, and Thomas Hobbes. Aristotle viewed humans as natural "political animals" that have both rational and irrational sides to them, allowing for a government that provided overall goodness for the people. Machiavelli took a more grim view of human nature that shows humans as being naturally selfish and ambitious, so the government should be about greatness and maintaining power. Hobbes believed that in their natural state, humans are nasty, brutish, and untrustworthy, which forces the government to have to ensure peace and security while allowing people to get to their desires. Of the three political theories, the theory of Machiavelli is the most convincing as it incorporates the most realist view of human beings and how government should operate. In order to understand a political theory, it is important to understand the theorist's views of human nature. Aristotle believed that humans were naturally political, or as he called them "political animals", which means that humans are inclined towards politics and innately want to participate. He also believed ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 13. Political Philosophy: The Theory Of The State By Thomas... Stellenbosch University Philosophy 212: Political Philosophy Assignment 1 Roxanne Mooneys 17648130 20 February 2017 I, [Roxanne Mooneys, 1764830], hereby declare that this work is entirely my own, that I have acknowledged all sources in the essay itself and not only in the bibliography, that all wording that is not accompanied by a reference is my own, and that no part of this essay derives from a fellow student. I understand that if any part of this declaration is found to be false, I will receive no marks for this essay and further disciplinary steps will be taken against me. Thomas Hobbes: The Leviathan ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬ The field of Political Philosophy is concerned with understanding the notion of the state and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... The division of powers would only lead to the destruction of the very institution of power. Men would much rather have the ability to follow their own teachings than follow that of a legislative power. Hobbes conclusion is thus that absolute authority is required to enforce the terms of a social contract. The ideal is that all power is concentrated in a single figure of authority as this averts the potential problem of having too many dominant wills within a state. Once a sovereign is put in place it is accepted as the source of true knowledge and the enforcer of peace. All people are to accept and respect the rights of the sovereign. Where political authority exists the duty of man is to accept ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 14. Sovereignty Is A Modern Political Theory Of International Sovereignty is a modern political theory of international relations that is supported by a multitude of political theorists to rid the world of barbaric methods of competition. A sovereign is a supreme political power that works best with the existence of state lines and the geographic location of the people ruled under it to ease the organizational constraints of having a large number of people and territories. Contrarily, Charles Beitz heavily criticizes this idea of a sovereign because of its lack of attention to humans as individuals and the interests they should be free to pursue. In his eyes, state lines should not be the only limit to which individuals should receive or have access to natural resources. He believes a sovereign takes ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... When extended to the state level, this concept of forcefully acquiring goods and land leads to vicious wars at the expense of a meaningful life for the persons living in the conflicting states. Human rights and social justice are ignored, and in these states there is "no account of Time; no Arts; no Letters; no Society; ... And the life of man, solitary, poore, nasty, brutish, and short." During wartime, a state is only concerned with the concept of winning or ensuring that the opposing side does not win. Life within the state is no longer worth living considering the people's interests are not being represented. Competition for things without laws or control creates an environment of free will in which the stakes are continually raised higher until there is nothing left of the state to exist; therefore, an overarching power of law such as a sovereign must be put into effect to manifest the significance of defining what is right versus wrong. To control the need for uneconomical wars, a sovereign is created that will aid in the justification, preservation, and enforcement of laws. In The Thirty Years' War, for example, Johannes Burkhardt states that a decision was met after the dominant powers "concluded that the plurality of states did not necessarily represent 'anarchy' or some flawed political concept that had to be done ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 15. Political Theory of John Locke Essay John Locke: Account of Political Society What would the American government be like today if it was not for the mind and political theory of John Locke? Some historians and philosophers believe that without John Locke our government would only be a shadow of what it is today. Arguably, one of his most important political and philosophical works was his Two Treatises of Government. There he argues that the function of the state is to protect the natural rights of its citizens, primarily to protect the right to property. John Locke, in many eyes, can be viewed as one of the father's of Democracy. He embraced many of ideas in his theories on the state of nature and the rise of political society today. In Locke's political society, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... This in essence means that all members of the society should be equal under the law of justice, and that no man is better than another, since all men are created equal, and all are equal before the laws of nature. "Everyone as he is bound to preserve himself, and not quit his station willfully; so by the like reason when his own preservation comes not in competition, ought he, as much as he can, to preserve the rest of mankind, and may not unless it be to do justice on an offender, take any, or impair the life, or what tends to the preservation of the life, the liberty, health, limb or goods of another," (Locke pg 117, 6). That means that no individual has the right to take away the rights of another. As a result, if a person commits a crime, the people have a right to punish him. For example, if one man kills another man's sheep, then the people have the right to kill one of his sheep without committing a crime. Besides the right to self–preservation, Locke also believed that all individuals had a natural right to property, "the labour of his body, and the work of his hands, we may say, are property his," (pg. 128, 27). This natural right carried with it two preconditions of natural law. First, since God gave the earth to all individuals, people must be sure to leave enough property for others to have, the second ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 16. Theories Of Political Correctness During the early 1990's the term political correctness surged into our everyday vocabulary. A lot of generation X kids in the 1990's were finishing up high school or entering their early adult years and starting families. The idea of not labeling people and being sensitive to people's physical, cognitive, cultural difference became a common consciousness that formed among generation Xer's. For much of our childhood it may have been common to hear our parents and grandparents refer to people by their skin color or their disability. Sometimes this was meant with mean ambition but other times it was just the way they were brought up and not meant to insult the person. However the idea of political correctness informed us that these labels are hurtful to the individual applied too. Suddenly we became more aware of our comments such as, "That's retarded," or That's so gay," may actually be hurting someone's feelings and self–esteem who may struggling with a learning disability or is a homosexual. As a generation we had to learn to not fall back on the familiar as well as encourage our parents and grandparents to be more respectful of how these labels can hurt. We also were the first generation to raise our children with the idea of political ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... People at this age are caught between an adult and a teenager. They have a lot more opportunity to explore with less parental control and they are may be presented with responsibilities similar to an adult. People at this age may not feel like they can define themselves as a result because they may not have a lot of work experiences or may not have a lot of long term relationship experience. The opportunities to experience with relationships or activities help the emerging adult to define who their reciprocating self is as they enter their young adult ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 17. Rational Choice Theory : Theories Of Political, Social,... For nearly half a century rational choice theory (RCT) has dominated analyses of political, social, and economic sciences. Due to the theory's objectivity and systematic predictability, rational choice is able to provide a comforting procedure to studying the decision–making process. However to truly gauge how and why actors make decisions, a more diversified and complex degree of emotions and behaviors must also be analyzed. Despite our efforts to prove the contrary, actors are human, therefore subjectivity and carefully crafted belief systems often contradict what would be considered rational choices. Ultimately rational choice theory is an economic model based on cost–benefit analyses. Hypothetically, the action that produces the maximum expected utility is considered the rational decision. This theory (in terms of political decision–making) hinges upon four assumptions: (1) the focus is on the government's action(s) that result from the process of rational choice theory, (2) the government is a utility maximizer, it chooses the action with the highest expected payoff, (3) the government is a unified and single entity, not a heterogeneous group of individuals, and (4) the action selected is a result of calculations (more often than not a cost–benefit analysis). Overall these assumptions help us create an objective model for decision making; one that provides a more scientific approach by assuming definitive answers based on individual's assumptions thereby eliminating ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 18. Short Essay : Political Theory Essay Final Essay: Political Theory The other day, after what was a particularly cumbersome day at school and work, I found myself looking into the Texas sunset whilst stuck in traffic thinking, 'I wish I could experience life before society. Free to live my life and roam as I please in a state free of impediments and commitments.' This is not to say that I depicted this uncivilized life as a simulacrum flowing as seamlessly as was portrayed in The Swiss Family Robinson, I merely desired a break from what felt like a straightjacket bound by the orders of society. Furthermore, I pondered if a world without society and structure could possibly be one conducive to a more enjoyable, rewarding life. But the more I scrutinized this idea, I began to consider that this fleeting thought was one with no basis due to the incredible feats mankind has accomplished as a result of our enlightenment. Swiss philosopher, writer, and political theorist Jean Jacque Rousseau argues in The Social Contract that my thought that life could be better without society was not only rational, but laden with veracity. Rousseau's visionary theory made the assertion that humankind was once brimming with natural goodness; and, were life to be played out pursuant to the desires that arose during my car ride home, a society–free world would be the only way to achieve such a virtuous mankind. Rousseau believed above all that "man is born free, but he is everywhere in chains." I do concur with Jean Jacques ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 19. The World Of Politics And Political Theory Of the various thinkers examined in history, many have contributed to the world of politics and paved the way for our modern day government. Not only have they built up a forum for how policymaking is organized and overall studied, they have also illuminated new ways to carry out our judicial systems. Two of the major component thinkers that attributed to the growth of politics as a whole were Aristotle and Plato. These two philosophers not only presented new theories but also changed how legislation is viewed by the world and potential lawmakers. To bring this topic into being, we must first analyze what politics was and is today in our society and how our views were constructed on this topic. According to the Meriam–Webster Dictionary, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... If asked what politics is, most would usually say that it is another way of conning people for their votes due to well–constructed lies told by decently put together politicians making promises toward the public that cannot be kept once elected. Nonetheless, in the latter parts of the reading, it goes on to describe politics as the leadership value or "leader" of a state. In order to elucidate the term of a leader, the book gave various anecdotes in order to portray the qualities of a good leader. Webster's dictionary defines leadership as the position or function of a person who guides or directs a group. With this given definition by Webster, it could be assumed that politics is associated with leadership, because of the ramifications of the presidential election and the political parties. In the words of Bernard Montgomery of the British Field Marshal he also attempts to define the word leader by declaring that "Leadership is the capacity and will to rally men and women to a common purpose and the character which inspires confidence." Essentially, Mr. Montgomery is stating that the words of a leader can influence a group to assemble around him/her to aid them in achieving their ultimate goal and in due course getting them to where they want to go, which can be said of many political party elections that cause others to rally behind ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 20. Normative Political Theories: Jefferson, Hamilton, And... Normative political theory is a philosophical and scientific way of studying political science in an effort to determine social values to justify how governmental and public processes should function (Pietrzyk–Reeves, 2017). Three normative political theories have been derived on the political contributions of Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and Andrew Jackson. They are referred to as the Jeffersonian, Hamiltonian, and Jacksonian models. The models are a contrast in political philosophies on how government should be organized and function (Sylves, 2015). The Jeffersonian model is based on the ideal that public managers should be responsive to the prevailing public sentiment. That decision should be made in consultation with the public and mirror the consensus of the people. Public managers need to understand the needs of the community and work to meet those needs. The Hamiltonian Model is based on achieving results and relies on skill and information to do so. Public managers should be accountable for whether or not they able to make decision that bring about desired results. The Jacksonian model promotes the decentralization by empowering local governments retuning political control to people. Jacksonian public mangers oppose a strong federal government in favor of granting state and local ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... Jeffersonian emergency mangers would work to mitigate and prepare for disasters and work collaboratively with the various agencies to coordinate resources for an effective response. Hamiltonian emergency mangers would rely on technical expertise and proven methods to develop and implement a plan in response to disaster. This would allow them to act independently and swiftly in response to a disaster. Jacksonian emergency mangers would excel with identifying local needs and working with local and state agencies to respond to those needs (Sylves, ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 21. Political Theory: Property Introduction One of the most confounding concepts in the discipline of political theory is the issue of property. Classical philosophers like Plato and Aristotle dedicate a large part of their works to speculations about the state of nature and property ownership. However, a comprehensive theoretical exploration of the concept of private property ownership is credited to relatively modern philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau. The writings of Locke and Rousseau on property ownership are quite fascinating to compare. Both philosophers portray the early stages of man in what they refer to as the State of Nature. This paper takes a critical look at Rousseau's conceptualization of private property and the state ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... He is deeply opposed to Locke's idea of man as a sociable being. In his state of nature, man lacks the ability to identify even their own offspring. In the state of nature, Locke and Rousseau seem to agree on several issues especially in the theoretical nature of their conceptualization. Rousseau concurs that State of Nature is a largely nonviolent period. However, his revelation of the state of nature is much more appealing. While Locke appears to insinuate that man has progressed out of this State of nature, Rousseau praises it as a period of harmony and virtue. In addition, Rousseau does not simply take the contemporary man and place him in the State of Nature. Instead, he makes a convincing argument of a relatively different and primitive man who slowly evolves into the modern version. Locke's version does not explain the evolution of man up untill the state of nature. Rousseau's argument seems more convincing since facts that corroborate the evolution theory have been unearthed. Therefore, Rousseau's theory appears entirely reasonable in allocating diverse attributes to ancient man and contemporary man. However, some of the attributes Rousseau's gives to ancient man and his life in the state of nature are questionable. One these attributes is that man's basic desires were mostly satisfied. Rousseau's idea of man relaxing while eating ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 22. Locke’s Political Theory Locke had undoubtedly aimed to defend ideas that are still being debated today. Rather distinctively, Locke portrays sovereignty as belonging and residing with the people. Unlike Hobbes, we see the state of nature as consisting of equality and there is an existence of natural rights that govern behaviour. Yet, the question is to why a society may need a sovereign if the state of nature was so, arguably, peaceful in the first place. Locke argues that this is because there are bound to be some people infringing others' rights ('inconveniences'), which will then need to be sanctioned (Laslett 1988). Also, a state and separate judicial, legislative and executive branches are required to protect private property. If the government ceases to act ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... There is a clear danger of bias within Locke's arguments here. Moreover, it has also been argued that Locke's political theory is completely flawed as consent is very weak, or maybe does not even exist. The years and histories of politics have witnessed many inter–state wars, civil wars, human sufferings, revolutions, uprisings and still today, there are many groups in societies that are constantly marginalised and silenced. In a world of violence and endless cycles of problems, it may be naïve to say that people consent to their governments and the arrangements on their lands. Ironically, it is precisely the existence of a certain type of government that leads to problems and uprisings, as populations can become dissatisfied and unhappy. Yet, this criticism may be regarded as pessimistic and Locke does indeed address this issue when he argues that people have a right to rise against their governments, when they are dissatisfied and thus give consent to a new government (although this may, in reality, be very difficult and sometimes even impossible practically). Locke's political theory embraces the idea of consent as Locke believes that a poor peasant under a government is still in a better situation than somebody who lives under no rule. As Hume writes, therefore, people may consent from "necessity" (Haakonssen 1994, p.194) but this is beneficial. They are then able to "live under his dominion" ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 23. Foucault 's Influence On Political Theory Jordan Riggs Pos 353 Political Theory Essay John Hultgren 10/30/2014 Essay Foucault is a very famous name when it comes to political theory. In our contemporary theory politics course, one of the required reading materials was Foucault's Discipline and Punish. Foucault had these very strong ideas about punishment, especially about, the "modern penal system" or otherwise known as prison. Foucault was very analytic about discipline and punishment prior to the eighteenth century. In the beginning of Discipline and Punish, Foucault explains how prior to the eighteenth century, punishment was something that was used as severe torture to the human body, as well as explaining how when people were punished, punishments usually were public and or ceremonial. Foucault had strong ideas and he mentioned some very important terms to make his argument. To help the reader of this essay, some very important key terms will be defined. These key terms include, knowledge, power, discipline, panopticism, and politics. Hopefully these key terms can help the reader understand Foucault's beliefs and ideas, as well as the second part of the essay where Foucault's ideas will be related to modern day pop culture. Two very important terms that are the foundation of Foucault's work are, knowledge and power. The root of Foucault's analytic would be those two previous words. Foucault does not view power as a negative thing, because he believes it is something that is always going to exist. Foucault ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 24. The Main Ideas of Liberal Political Theory Examine the main ideas of Liberal political theory It is perhaps safe to say that the most prominent political philosophy in contemporary era is liberalism. Liberalism is based on the ideas of liberal political theorists of the last three hundred years. Among these ideas, the first and most important deals with the question of liberty. Political theorists such as John Locke and John Stuart Mill argued that liberty of individual citizens must be upheld by the state. Mill particularly stated that the state should be liberal by default. The burden of proving that liberty should be restricted or prohibited should lie on the states. Unless they can provide such proof, all citizens should by presumption be at liberty. Locke, Rousseau, and Hobbes stated that liberty could be restricted under certain circumstances. For instance, when the state is threatened by a revolt, and since the state is the guarantor of liberty of all its subjects, the state is justified in curtailing some liberal policies but temporarily. The government under liberal political theory is viewed as a necessary evil. The theory suggests that the power and the role of the state should be minimized. There should also be a balance of power in the state. Democracy is essential for liberal political theory. Citizens should enjoy both liberty and the freedom to elect or, in the absence of liberal political order, overthrow the government. But the liberties of citizens cannot be guaranteed in a state of anarchy. ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 25. The Political Theory Of John Locke And Jean Jacques Rousseau Within the field of political theory, the notion of private property is often discussed and historically has been a difficult philosophical argument to overcome. The ability to govern over land and other material objects privately compared to communally has been disputed and shown to be problematic for philosophers because of the idea of the development of the individual. Modern thinkers John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau also fall into this category. During the 18th century, Locke and Rousseau excelled in the world of philosophy, extending their views to broaden the horizons of government and political principles. Both men begin them by stating their version of the State of Nation, just as Hobbes did before them through his writings. Once men find their way out of the State of Nature in both societies, Locke and Rousseau provide natural orders which allow the discussion of property and the private rights of man. Locke argues for private property as a positive to mankind, allowing the individual to flourish while Rousseau opposes it and the division of labor will break down mankind's virtue. In the Second Treatise and Discourse on Inequality, both men demonstrate conflicting ideas of the human state of nature, which lead to their differing opinions on the progression of mankind out of that state and the privatization of property. Political power is very important to both me, having devoted their names and philosophies to it. To Locke, political power is "a right of ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 26. What Is The Political Theory Of The Prince By Niccolo... Businesses fail all the time. Often times, this is due to poor leadership with a lack of insight. To be a successful leader, you must know how to gain respect among your employees without making them despise you. This is a very difficult task, but luckily running a business is a lot like politics. There is so much information known today about the politics of the past, which can now be drawn on. One of the most famous books about politics ever written is The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli. This work provides an extensive look at the politics of the Renaissance era and how one could be a successful leader in that society. By applying Machiavelli's political theory to your work life, you will be able to successfully lead any office. According to Machiavelli's theory, in order to run a successful company, you must be able to control your people, while still, hopefully, getting them to like you. An important aspect of running a company is to avoid hatred. If you are hated, it is unlikely that you will get the respect that you deserve. Really the best way to go about gaining this respect is by obtaining popular support among your workers. While it is important not to alienate the higher ups, the groups that really hold the most power are the more average workers because they are the majority. If you have a choice between making the leaders happy and making everyone else happy, choose to please the majority. However, if you are put into a situation where you can only satisfy one ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 27. Political Theory Of Justice, Veil Of Ignorance And Nozick... Intro: John Rawls a political theorist engages in various political theories and arguments that contradict, support, and scrutinizes others theories made by other notable political theorist. Rawls contemplates usage of theories such as The Theory of Justice, Veil of Ignorance and Nozick's Entitlement Theory which will be discussed within this analysis for their relation to society and what benefits or aliments they hold if any on society's effective function. History of Rawls John Rawls wrote several highly influential articles in the 19950`s and 1960`s, his first book, A Theory of Justice (1971), revitalized the social–contract tradition, using it to articulate and defend a detailed vision of egalitarian liberalism. In Political Liberalism [PL] (1993), he recast the role of political philosophy, accommodating it to the effectively permanent "reasonable pluralism" of religious, philosophical, and other comprehensive doctrines or worldviews that characterize modern societies. He explains how philosophers can characterize public justification and the legitimate, democratic use of collective coercive power while accepting that pluralism. (Richardson) Rawls believes that in a situation where a society is established of people who are self–interested, rational, and equal, the rules of justice are established by what is mutually acceptable and agreed upon by all the people. This scenario of negotiating the laws of that society that will be commonly agreed upon and beneficial to ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 28. Theories Of Classical Political Economy Economic system in the world is mostly productive in America this is due to the constant unlimited wants of its people and the fact that most people have high standards of living (Rosefielde, 2008). An individual has different wants and at any particular time an individual can satisfy his or her wants through purchasing these goods therefore there is an unlimited wants for goods and services. In recent times people consume goods that they don't produce they sell or provide services then the income they gain from the services they purchase the goods that they want to consume. In this paper I will discuss the developed theories of the classical political economy developed theories and discuss on their different characteristics. These theories were mainly concerned with the changing aspects of economic growth in different centuries. Classical political economy is the political economy during industrial revolution from the 18th century to the 19th century. The theories of classical political economy ask some specific questions whose answer creates the differences between them. Some of the asked questions are what does the surplus consist of and what defines its size, what is its origin, to whom is it distributed to, what causes or rather defines its growth over time. In addition the economists also ask what happens to the relative shares of surplus obtained by the various classes of revenue appropriators as the surplus increases. Lastly how does the distributive relation impact ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 29. Comparing Schmitt 's And Arendt 's Theory Of The Political Ruling a society has taken many forms, be it the the cruel hand of dictator or the frantic shared thoughts of democracy; an organized state can arguably be ruled by only one end of the spectrum. To conceptualize this view, philosophers Schmitt and Arendt present their interpretations on the political. The central thesis to my paper is then, to present both Schmitt's and Arendt's concept of the political and discern which is the most viable from of governing. Schmitt's structure of the political rest in the friend–enemy distinction dictated by the sovereign. Opposite his view is Arendt, who perceives the political existing with the masses so as to ensure happiness exist. In today's political climate the oscillation between these two views is the masses believe in Arendt's theory, while in actual practice of power, Schmitt's view is currently exercised. The political is then argued as either an autocratic regime or a democratic government. Where Arendt agues for the later, it's feasibility is highly improbable. Schmitt's concept of the former, though practiced today, is not completely correct but, presents the best form of rule. The order of a state is best ruled by a sovereign so as to allow the country to realize it's full capabilities. For Schmitt the political exist where a sovereign dictates the polity, recognizing the moral distinction of a group form others and reconciling extreme differences through violence; thus a friend–enemy distinction exists that acts as a ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 30. The Political Theories Of The Notorious Philosophers-... The political theories of the notorious philosophers– Confucius, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Marx, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau– have significantly impacted the American Political System of today through their timeless appeal. If these philosophers were alive today, what would their perception be of the American Political System to date? Confucius, a Chinese philosopher, in 551 BCE – 479 BCE created Confucianism, centered upon restoring "peace and order." According to Simon Worrall with National Geographic, the fundamental reason for Confucianism was to return prosperity to China. Confucius viewed the family as the foundation of society, believing the man or the father were the heads of the household and their wives and children as their subjects. Thus, Confucius promoted for a male–dominated society. One could say that the United States has modeled a patriarchal society, regarding gender inequality in politics and in the economy. For instance, a substantial disparity exists between men and women who hold high political positions. Granted, women can vote–nineteenth amendment ratified in 1920–and have all the same rights as men in current American society, but for over a century women didn't have the same rights as men. Significant strides were made in women's suffrage during President Woodrow Wilson's candidacy when his wife, Edith Wilson, brought to her husband's attention the fact that she couldn't vote for her own husband. Even though women were considered ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 31. Bureaucratic Political Theory Paper The organisational dynamics of guilds can be explored using the Bureaucratic Politics model, which can be applied when there are multiple actors engaged with different priorities and perceptions (McFarland & Gomez, 2013). The Bureaucratic Politics theory contends that the multiple players in an organisation have different resources and power, and the actors will enter a game of exchange or bargaining according to agreed rules (McFarland & Gomez, 2013). Each of the millions of World of Warcraft players have resources of interest to other players, such as quest items, knowledge or access to trade skill masters. Guilds are formed to enable groups to have access to resources and enhance their ability to advance through the game. Coalitions, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... As outlined on the WOWWiki (2013), "you shouldn't expect free handouts for no effort". 3. The process of choice is where mutually acceptable trades are arranged (McFarland & Gomez, 2013). There is a better chance of success for all players if the group works together, rather than as individuals, so the group must work together to make decisions. At the same time each team member is likely to want to protect their own parochial interests such as advancing one's own personal quest, developing their own skills, or gaining power within the guild. Therefore, the exchange process must be negotiated so that resources in the form of skills, collective knowledge, or quest items are shared in a manner that is mutually acceptable for group members. 4. Each actor trades, trying to improve their position, fulfilling their preferences/identity as best they can until no more legal or mutually acceptable trades are possible (McFarland & Gomez, 2013). The guild continues to reach collective decisions through the exchange of resources in order to advance through the various stages and challenges of the game. While the Bureaucratic Politics model provides a useful lens for examining guilds as coalitions that enhance mutual interests and make favourable decisions, there are other elements that influence the organisational dynamics of guilds that are not explicitly discussed in this theory. The Bureaucratic Politics theory asserts that ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 32. Environmental Issues in World Political Theories Essay Environmental Issues in World Political Theories For the first time in history, human beings have realized that the environment can be destroyed by human activity. The massive cutting down of forests, draining and flooding of bogs and lakes, changing the flow of rivers, and building of harmful factories and power plants, all of this contributes to damaging our environment. In the world right now an agreement has not been reached about to what extent are humans responsible for the changes in the environment on Earth. World Political forces according to their interests approach environmental issues in different ways, following the three main World Political Theories. Realism ======= ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... The most important tool that they use to put into practice states' foreign policies is military force. Realists acknowledge the environmental problems of the world, but think that they should be dealt with on national levels. Thus every state takes care of their own environmental problems. They believe that NGO's don't have the same power as states. For example, the realists recognize an event like the Johannesburg Conference but they participate in it for different purposes. Not to reach compromises with the rest of the world but to keep up date and to form political alliances in order to promote national interests. USA is a good example of Realism in practice. USA didn't sign the Kyoto agreement, which limited the CO2 emissions, since it's not in their interest to reduce production. Liberalism ========== Liberals believe in progress. The main idea is that humans are perfectible and democracy is needed to make it happen. Contrary to realists, liberals don't think that war is the natural condition of world politics. Main actors, in their opinion, are NGO's, starting from multinational corporations to terrorist groups. They don't deny that states are important but they believe that the co–operation between different types of actors is essential. They stress the importance of environmental issues. Liberals think that environmental ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 33. Three Theories To Explain The American Political Process Presently, there are three theories that have been posed to explain the American political process. They are, elite theory, hyperpluralism, and pluralism. While all of them have sufficient evidence in regard to discussion and debate, pluralism undoubtedly best explains the American political process. Pluralism states that our democracy is best achieved by the existence and cooperation between various groups, and individuals, which participate in government by means of election. In context of American politics, pluralism is the core which our political process revolves around. Pluralism has been historically important, in regards to religion, and American society. This has held true since the American colonies liberated themselves from ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 34. Modern Political Theory: Rousseau and Machiavelli Essay Machiavelli and Rousseau, both influential philosophers, were innovators of their time. They represented different ideas on what the state of nature and government should consist of, having both similarities and differences. Their viewpoints evolved from different time periods, which make them unique. Machiavelli, the sixteenth century Italian diplomat expressed, that a Prince should be unethical in achieving power. He argued that to be successful in politics certain qualities were of importance and ethics could not stand in the way. Machiavelli stated that a Prince's power should be maintained in being feared and loved, and possessing control over the people. Rousseau on the other hand was an eighteen century philosopher and writer. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... He says as their Prince people would do anything to protect him but when he is in danger they turn away. He understood that most people act for self interest and not for the interest of others. He saw that political success would not depend on chance or luck but through the eyes of fear. Machiavelli says, "The Prince must none the less make himself feared in such a way that, if he is not loved, at least he escapes being hated." (10). [Burton & Dworkin] He perceives that social order is continuous and impossible solve. Not everyone will be happy with the decisions he makes but as long as the majority agrees with him, he shouldn't have a problem. Machiavelli knew that a Prince must secure his power and must be powerful enough to keep it. The idea that doing anything to get this power, whether it was moral or not was the most important aspect. "A prince should not worry if he incurs reproach for his cruelty so long as he keeps his subjects united and loyal." (Machiavelli 9). [Burton &Dworkin] He did not see all men as equal. He perceived that some men existed to become rulers and others did not. In my opinion I think this is true in almost any government. He also believes that honesty could not always be a standard because some times you had to lie to get what you needed. In a sense saying, men who want to have more power are willing to be unethical to claim it. Machiavelli expresses very dark perspectives in the Prince which makes it easier for me to relate to ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 35. Contemporary Political Theory Should We Have On... Policy–makers need a "certain measure of agreement on what is just and unjust" (Rawls, 1999: 6) to coordinate their policies efficiently, meet expectations and grant stability in society. Answering whether policy–makers should listen to a statement like this, we will explore what impact contemporary political theory should have on policy–makers and examine the nature of their relationship. Due to its limited scope, this essay cannot elucidate whether policy–makers should listen to natural scientists or economists, comparatively. In what follows I shall focus entirely on Rawls's A Theory of Justice (TJ) and Nozick's Anarchy, State, and Utopia (ASU). I furthermore assume that political theorists and policy–makers are two separate parties and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... Rawls convincingly illuminates that individual policy–makers can critically reflect upon their self– interest by internally assuming impartiality (Rawls, 1999: 119–120). This intuitive "method for understanding the role of justice" (Campbell, 1988: 82) serves as a framework for unbiased policy– making. Despite various political attitudes, institutions rest on an underlying consent about what is (un)just. In this sense, the OP makes individuals see policy goals from distance (Rawls, 1999: 19). Beyond that, by listening to political theory, policy–makers learn to evaluate how we speak about justice (see Campbell, 1988: 9). Intuitive societal debates about who deserves what should be heard so that policy–makers are not only informed by lobbyists. Even if parliament does not discuss political theories, they translate into culture and beliefs. Listening could make policy–makers reflect upon their own normative grounds, becoming aware of the principles they should act ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 36. Social Contract As A Dominant Political Theory Essay Social Contract As A Timeless Dominant Political Theory Introduction The concept of social contract was introduced by early thinkers like Socrates and Plato. The social contract is a political theory that involves a tacit agreement between members of society group that allows them to collaborate and promote mutual benefits, as well explains the legitimacy and authority of government. This concept is further explained and defended by 17th and 18th centuries philosophers like Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, who helped to shape these theories and lay down the foundation for today's democracy and the role of the government in society. Social contract theories had a profound impact on modern Western society, specifically, America and France. Subsequently, it had a dramatic ideological influence on the development of democracies around the world. However, not everyone agreed with the idea of social contract and there are other political theories which downplay its importance in the role of the government in the community's life. Theorists, such as Humes, Mandeville, and Smith declare there is no such contract/agreement in existence, but rather maximizing peoples' utility, market forces, and individual selfishness are the driving forces of a given society. Nevertheless, we need to recognize the importance of social contract because it provides a conceptual basis for the development of a democratic and just society. In addition, social contract, through its constant ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 37. Political Theory Of Justice, Veil Of Ignorance And Nozick... Intro: John Rawls a political theorist engages in various political theories and arguments that contradict, support, and scrutinizes others theories made by other notable political theorist. Rawls contemplates usage of theories such as The Theory of Justice, Veil of Ignorance and Nozick's Entitlement Theory which will be discussed within this analysis for their relation to society and what benefits or aliments they hold if any on society's effective function. History of Rawls John Rawls wrote several highly influential articles in the 19950`s and 1960`s, his first book, A Theory of Justice (1971), revitalized the social–contract tradition, using it to articulate and defend a detailed vision of egalitarian liberalism. In Political Liberalism [PL] (1993), he recast the role of political philosophy, accommodating it to the effectively permanent "reasonable pluralism" of religious, philosophical, and other comprehensive doctrines or worldviews that characterize modern societies. He explains how philosophers can characterize public justification and the legitimate, democratic use of collective coercive power while accepting that pluralism. (Richardson) Rawls believes that in a situation where a society is established of people who are self–interested, rational, and equal, the rules of justice are established by what is mutually acceptable and agreed upon by all the people. This scenario of negotiating the laws of that society that will be commonly agreed upon and beneficial to ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 38. Political And Economic Theory Is An Often Contentious Subject Political and economic theory is an often contentious subject as it relates to how much interference governments should be allowed when it comes to rights and welfare of the public. One of the most debated topics asks the question "is it a part of the government 's role to take wealth away from the rich to give to the poor?" John Rawls and Robert Nozick offer two differing theories about the role of government in distributing wealth. John Rawls argues that a just society must have equal rights for all. He defines a society as an organization of individuals who work together and create a social contract of moral and immoral actions. The goal of any society is to improve the lives of those who inhabit it, contradicting Nozick's belief that ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ... The second principle is called the difference principle which states that social or economic inequalities are only just if they help the most disadvantaged members of society. In this portion, Rawls does agree that material inequality is a necessity to encourage economic competition, but states that it is only just if it is then used to help those who have been disadvantaged by their social position. Rawls proposes that the difference principle is the core component of distributive justice and therefore justifies the redistribution of wealth from rich to poor at the hands of the state. Rawls develops the idea of an "original position" as a conception point and a justification for this theory of distributive justice. In this original position, an individual is standing behind a veil of ignorance which blocks out social class, economic class, sexuality or natural talents. In this place, an individual is in the position to make the most basic moral decisions because they face no external bias. If one knows no place in society, a rational person will make decisions that help those who are worse off. In the original position, the principles of justice would be agreed to by any rational human. This position supports the idea that while each person might have a different background, they should have a fair chance to pursue goals and the equality of opportunity despite these ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...
  • 39. Thomas Hobbes And John Locke 's Political Theories Essay Analyzing Thomas Hobbes and John Locke's Political Theories and Justifying if these Governmental Officials Have Legitimate Reason To Hold Secrets from the Public Systems of government across the globe are utilized to various extents. Similarly to John Locke's vision of government, the United States stands by a system of representative democracy. This means that our government highly values that the people of a society hold the power of where the direction of their state goes through electing officials. In Locke's book, Two Treatises, he states that if a government official extends their power in any way, other than to better citizens' lives, then the people have the right to replace those elected into power (77). However, Thomas Hobbes, in The Leviathan, explains that it is human nature to always have self–interest in mind. Hobbes confirms that even though he is open to representative democracy or having multiple officials lead as an assembly, due to human nature getting in the way, having more than a single governmental official ruling the state as a monarch is not ideal. Hillary Clinton, and her use of private emails, is a modern example that conceptualizes these two theories of Locke and Hobbes. The two philosophers, Locke and Hobbes, would approach this situation in two parallel ways. From Locke's belief of allowing the people of the state to hold the overall power, he would suggest to first evaluate to see if the intentions of Clinton were strictly for the good of the ... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...