Assignment Code: BPSC-133/ASST/TMA/2023-24

Course Code: BPSC-133

Assignment Name: Comparative Government and Politics

Year: 2023-2024

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Assignment - I

Answer the following in about 500 words each. Each question carries 20 marks.

Q1) Describe the important methods of comparison in the study of political science.

Ans) In the study of political science, comparison serves as a fundamental methodological approach, offering insights into political systems, institutions, behaviours, and processes across different contexts. Several methods of comparison aid in comprehending and analyzing political phenomena:

a)    Comparative Politics:

1)      Case Studies: Detailed examinations of specific countries, regions, or political events, allowing in-depth analysis of unique circumstances and their implications. Case studies offer rich qualitative data, providing context-specific understanding and detailed insights into political dynamics.

2)     Cross-National Comparison: It is the process of comparing numerous countries or regions in order to uncover trends, similarities, and differences across different political systems. The use of this strategy makes it easier to comprehend the differences in political institutions, policies, and cultures, as well as the influence that these factors have on governance and the consequences of society.

3)     Historical Comparison: This is an exploration into the political systems and events that have taken place throughout the course of history. The research takes a longitudinal approach, tracing the development of politics, the evolution of institutions, and the impact of historical events on contemporary politics.

4)     Quantitative Analysis: Utilizing statistical methods to analyse large datasets, identifying correlations, trends, and patterns across different political contexts. Quantitative analysis enables the measurement of political phenomena, allowing for systematic comparisons and empirical validation.

b)   International Relations:

1)      Comparative Foreign Policy Analysis: It is important to investigate the foreign policies of a number of countries in order to have an understanding of their goals, strategies, and behaviours in connection to international relations. Comparative analysis is a useful tool for determining the similarities and differences in responses to global issues through comparison.

2)     Global Comparative Studies: Conducting research on global movements, international organisations, and trends in order to evaluate the influence that these factors have on the political and policy systems of a number of different nations. This methodology investigates the ways in which globalisation affects political dynamics beyond national boundaries.

3)     Cross-Cultural Analysis: The study of the ways in which various cultures, traditions, and values influence diplomatic relationships and international relations. In the context of international relations, this method gives insight on the ways in which cultural elements influence the behaviour of states.

c)    Methods of Comparison and Challenges:

1)      Qualitative vs. Quantitative: Balancing qualitative richness from detailed case studies with the systematic nature of quantitative analysis remains a challenge. Integrating both approaches can yield comprehensive insights while addressing their respective limitations.

2)     Generalizability and Contextual Specificity: Ensuring findings from comparative studies are both applicable across contexts and sensitive to unique local circumstances presents a challenge. Achieving a balance between generalizable theories and context-specific understanding is essential.

3)     Causal Inference: Establishing causal relationships between variables in comparative analysis poses challenges due to diverse political contexts, multiple variables, and complex interactions. Ensuring robustness in identifying causal mechanisms is crucial for accurate analysis.

In summary, employing various methods of comparison in political science enables scholars to delve into diverse political phenomena, facilitating nuanced understanding, empirical validation, and theoretical advancement. These methods offer diverse lenses to explore political systems, international relations, and global dynamics, providing valuable insights into the complexities of politics.

Q2) Discuss the different type of functions performed by political parties in democratic systems.

Ans) Political parties in democratic systems perform multifaceted roles that are crucial for the functioning and stability of the democratic process. These roles can be broadly categorized into several functions:

a)    Representation:

1)      Articulation of Interests: Political parties represent diverse societal interests, advocating for specific policies, ideologies, and social groups. They aggregate and articulate the needs and demands of various segments of society, acting as conduits between citizens and the government.

2)     Voter Representation: Citizens are able to voice their choices through the mechanisms provided by political parties. Parties compete for electoral support by offering a variety of policy platforms and ideologies. This gives voters the opportunity to select options that are congruent with their values and interests.

b)   Governance and Policy Formulation:

1)      Formation of Government: For the purpose of gaining power and forming governments, parties compete in elections. It is common practise for the party or coalition that achieves a majority to take office, so incorporating the mandates of the voters into the governance process.

2)     Policy Formulation and Implementation: Elected parties formulate policies, draft legislation, and oversee their implementation. They shape public policy, drive legislative agendas, and administer governance, translating their ideological and programmatic commitments into action.

c)    Political Mobilization and Participation:

1)      Mobilization of Citizens: Parties mobilize citizens for political participation, rallying support for their agendas, ideologies, and candidates. They engage in campaign activities, encouraging voter turnout and engagement in political processes.

2)     Political Education and Awareness: Through the process of increasing awareness of social, economic, and political issues, parties serve as a facilitator for political education. By teaching citizens about issues pertaining to governance and policy, they encourage citizens to participate in civic life and make a contribution to the public discourse.

d)   Oversight and Opposition:

1)      Checks and Balances: Opposition parties play a crucial role in checking the government's actions, providing oversight, and scrutinizing policies. They hold the ruling party accountable, ensuring transparency, and challenging decisions that may be detrimental to the public interest.

2)     Alternative Government: Opposition parties serve as alternatives to the ruling party, offering different policy directions and visions for governance. They compete to present themselves as viable choices for future leadership, enhancing the democratic choice available to citizens.

e)    Challenges and Complexities:

1)      Party Fragmentation: In multi-party systems, fragmentation can lead to coalition governments, making governance and policy formulation complex, requiring consensus-building and compromises.

2)     Populism and Polarization: There are times when parties give more weight to short-term populist agendas than they do to long-term objectives, which contributes to polarisation and undermines communication and collaboration between parties.

3)     Capture by Elites: Parties run the risk of becoming enslaved by the interests of elites or losing contact with the people at the grassroots level, which would diminish their capacity to represent the people and erode public trust.

In essence, political parties in democratic systems play pivotal roles in representing citizens, shaping governance, fostering political participation, and providing checks and balances. The effectiveness of democratic functioning often relies on the ability of parties to balance these functions while upholding democratic principles and serving the public interest.

Assignment - II

Answer the following questions in about 250 words each. Each question carries 10 marks

Q1) Comment on the changing nature of federalism in contemporary politics.

Ans) The nature of federalism in contemporary politics has witnessed significant evolution and adaptation due to various global, national, and regional factors:

a)     Devolution and Decentralization: Many countries have embraced devolution and decentralization, granting more autonomy to regional and local governments. This shift reflects the recognition of diverse identities, cultural differences, and the need for more responsive governance closer to the people.

b)     Globalization and Interdependence: Globalization has challenged traditional federal structures by fostering interdependence among regions and nations. Issues like trade, environment, and security often require collaborative efforts that transcend national borders, impacting the balance of power between federal and subnational entities.

c)     Power Dynamics and Centralization Tendencies: In some cases, there's a trend toward centralization, wherein federal governments attempt to consolidate power. Economic or security concerns sometimes lead to the reassertion of central authority, potentially undermining the autonomy of subnational entities.

d)     Conflict and Fragmentation: In regions grappling with internal conflicts or identity-based movements, federalism faces challenges due to demands for greater autonomy or even secession. Balancing these demands while maintaining unity poses significant challenges to federal structures.

e)     Institutional Adaptation: Federal systems are adapting to address contemporary challenges by enhancing cooperative federalism, where federal and subnational entities collaborate to tackle complex issues like climate change, healthcare, and technology regulation.

f)      Digital Era and Governance: The digital revolution is reshaping federalism by enabling new forms of communication, citizen engagement, and governance. E-governance initiatives and digital platforms are altering the ways federal and regional governments interact with citizens.

g)     Economic Disparities and Redistribution: Economic disparities between regions within federations are prompting debates on resource allocation and fiscal federalism. Striking a balance between autonomy and financial redistribution remains a pressing issue.

Contemporary federalism is marked by a dynamic interplay between centralization and devolution, influenced by globalization, technology, identity politics, and economic disparities. The evolving nature of federalism reflects attempts to accommodate diverse interests, address complex challenges, and maintain the delicate balance between unity and diversity within nations.

Q2) What are the distinctive features of a parliamentary system?

Ans) A parliamentary system of government embodies distinctive features that differentiate it from other forms of governance, such as a presidential system.

These features include: 

a)     Executive-Parliamentary Fusion: In a parliamentary system, the executive branch is intertwined with the legislative branch. The executive, headed by the Prime Minister or Premier, emerges from and remains accountable to the parliament. The Prime Minister is often a member of the parliament and relies on its support to govern.

b)     Collective Responsibility: The principle of collective responsibility dictates that the entire cabinet, including the Prime Minister, is collectively accountable to the parliament for government decisions and policies. If the parliament expresses a lack of confidence in the government through a vote, the government may resign.

c)     No Fixed Term for the Executive: Unlike presidential systems with fixed terms, parliamentary systems lack a fixed tenure for the executive. The government remains in power as long as it maintains the confidence of the majority in the parliament. Early elections can be called, but they're typically due to parliamentary deadlock or loss of confidence.

d)     Flexibility and Quick Decision-Making: The parliamentary system allows for swift decision-making due to the fusion of powers. It enables the government to respond promptly to changing circumstances and crises without facing legislative gridlock.

e)     Separation of Powers with Checks and Balances: While there's a fusion of executive and legislative functions, there's still a separation of powers. The parliament serves as a check on the government's actions through oversight, scrutiny, and the power to withdraw support.

f)      Question Time and Debates: A hallmark of parliamentary systems is the tradition of question time, where members of parliament scrutinize government policies and decisions through questioning and debates. This enhances transparency and accountability.

g)     Dissolution and Confidence Votes: The parliament holds the power to dissolve itself and call for new elections. Additionally, confidence votes enable the parliament to express support or lack thereof for the government, influencing its continuity in power.

These distinctive features foster a system of government characterized by responsiveness, accountability, and adaptability to changing political dynamics. The fusion of powers and the emphasis on collective responsibility are central tenets that define the functioning of a parliamentary system.

Q3) Briefly describe the three dominant approaches to globalisation.

Ans) Three dominant approaches to globalization offer varied perspectives on its nature, impact, and consequences:

a)    Hyperglobalist Approach:

The hyperglobalist perspective portrays globalization as an overwhelmingly powerful force that transcends national boundaries, eroding state sovereignty, and homogenizing cultures and economies. It emphasizes the unprecedented interconnectedness facilitated by technology, trade, finance, and communication. According to this view, globalization creates a borderless world where markets dominate, and states play a diminished role. Proponents argue that it leads to a global convergence of values, economics, and governance, fostering a more integrated and unified world.

b)   Sceptical Approach:

The sceptical view presents a more cautious interpretation, suggesting that while globalization is influential, it is not as transformative as hyperglobalists claim. This approach acknowledges the increasing interconnectedness but highlights the persistent significance of state power, regionalism, and cultural diversity. It emphasizes the uneven effects of globalization, pointing out that it benefits certain regions and social groups while disadvantaging others. Sceptics argue that the state remains a vital actor, able to regulate and manage globalization's impact on economies and societies.

c)    Transformationalist Approach:

The transformationalist perspective presents globalization as a complex and transformative process with multifaceted implications. It acknowledges globalization's far-reaching impact but emphasizes its fluid and variable nature. According to this view, globalization triggers profound changes in economic, political, cultural, and social realms but doesn't lead to uniform outcomes. Instead, it generates both opportunities and challenges, reshaping societies and institutions while leaving room for diverse local and regional responses. Transformationalists stress the importance of agency, highlighting how various actors, including states, corporations, civil society, and individuals, shape and respond to globalizing forces.

These approaches offer differing lenses through which globalization is understood, encompassing debates about its extent, effects, and the nature of global interconnectedness in contemporary societies.

Assignment - III

Answer the following questions in about 100 words each. Each question carries 6 marks.

Q1 )What are the major obstacles to the success of democratic regimes in the developing countries?

Ans) In developing countries, several obstacles impede the success of democratic regimes:

a)     Weak Institutions: Fragile institutions often lack the capacity to enforce the rule of law, leading to corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of accountability.

b)     Economic Challenges: Persistent poverty, unequal wealth distribution, and economic instability can undermine democratic governance, as citizens prioritize immediate economic needs over political participation.

c)     Political Instability: Frequent changes in leadership, coup attempts, and political instability hinder the establishment of a stable democratic system.

d)     Ethnic and Religious Divisions: Deep-seated ethnic or religious tensions may fuel identity-based politics, leading to conflicts that undermine democratic principles.

e)     Media Control: Restricted media freedom limits the dissemination of diverse opinions, crucial for informed democratic decision-making.

f)      Corruption: Rampant corruption erodes public trust in democratic institutions, hindering the functioning of transparent and accountable governance.

g)     Limited Civic Education: Lack of awareness and civic education results in an electorate with limited understanding of democratic principles and their role in the political process.

Q2) Distinguish different types of military regimes.

Ans) Description of Types of Military Regimes:

Q3) What is the communitarian perspective on the nature of the state. 

Ans) The communitarian perspective views the state as an entity that serves to foster and preserve the common good of the community. It emphasizes the importance of shared values, norms, and social cohesion in shaping the state's role. Communitarians stress that the state should prioritize the well-being of the community over individual liberties, advocating for a balance between individual rights and the collective welfare. They argue for active citizen participation in public life and emphasize the state's responsibility in nurturing and maintaining social bonds, ensuring a sense of belonging and shared identity within the community.

Q4) Examine the strengths and weaknesses of plurality and majority based electoral systems.

Ans)

Plurality-Based Electoral Systems

a)     Strengths: Plurality systems are simple and easy to understand, promoting stable two-party systems and often facilitating clear electoral outcomes. They encourage constituency representation and tend to produce strong, decisive governments capable of swift decision-making due to single-member constituencies.

b)     Weaknesses: These systems suffer from disproportionate representation, where parties with concentrated support in specific regions may not reflect national votes. They often ignore smaller parties and might lead to wasted votes, potentially fostering a winner-takes-all mentality, and neglecting diverse perspectives.

Majority-Based Electoral Systems

a)     Strengths: Majority systems aim for more representative outcomes, ensuring candidates secure over 50% of votes, promoting legitimacy and broader support for elected officials. They reduce wasted votes and can accommodate multiple rounds of voting to achieve consensus.

b)     Weaknesses: These systems might prolong the election process, leading to increased costs and voter fatigue. In multi-round systems, there's a risk of strategic voting and coalition-building, potentially weakening the accountability of elected representatives. Additionally, securing absolute majorities may be challenging in diverse, multi-party environments.

Q5) What are the core assumptions of neo-Marxism?

Ans) Neo-Marxism, an evolution of classical Marxism, encompasses several core assumptions:

a)     Critical of Capitalism: Neo-Marxists maintain criticism of capitalism, focusing on its exploitative nature, class inequalities, and the alienation of labor. They extend this critique beyond economic realms, emphasizing cultural, social, and political aspects.

b)     Dialectical Materialism: Building on dialectical materialism, neo-Marxists acknowledge the role of class struggle but expand the analysis to include other power dynamics, such as race, gender, and culture, recognizing multiple intersecting forms of oppression.

c)     State and Ideology: They view the state as a tool of the ruling class, reinforcing existing power structures and perpetuating dominant ideologies that sustain inequality and maintain social control.

d)     Structural Analysis: Neo-Marxists emphasize structural analysis, scrutinizing institutional arrangements and social systems to uncover underlying power relations and hierarchies that perpetuate inequality.

e)     Emphasis on Culture and Hegemony: Cultural production and hegemonic control over societal beliefs and norms are central to neo-Marxist analysis, recognizing the role of cultural institutions in maintaining dominant ideologies and social control.