Question

Discuss the importance of political theory?(give me five points pls)​

Answer 1

Answer:

(1) An empirical political theory is a must for the growth of Political Science as a re-established discipline. Only an overarching or general theory can bring about integration, coherence and autonomy to its subject matter. In fact, it is an indicator of the health and youth of the discipline. No science can be fruitful or grow without having a compre­hensive theory.

(2) Theory explains political phenomena and events, finding out cause-effect relationships. It helps us to understand the political behaviour of man and systems; phenomena of violence, war or devel­opment; problems like racism, casteism, regionalism, etc. Many a time, it predicts coming events, thus warning man against their evil conse­quences. In this sense, it becomes a powerful tool to defend oneself. A theory based on empirical reality is a weapon to fight with false and motivated ideologies.

(3) Theory guides us to collect relevant facts and fill up the gaps or remove inconsistencies, if any. A science without a theory can be regarded as blind. Only theory enables a science to organise facts and give direction to research. Easton has remarked that without theory ‘political research must remain fragmentary and heterogeneous’. It enables the researcher to face the avalanche of facts and draw relevant generalisations.

(4) Abound theory (not an ideology) evokes satisfaction, self-confidence and proper understanding among all concerned. It unites human beings, groups and associations, and infuses coherence in their activ­ities. A scientific political theory often becomes a powerful weapon to win over battles or fight against enemies. Occasionally, it provides legit­imacy to the system of government or its rulers. Attainment of legitimacy reduces the cost of government, and makes it acceptable, effective and efficient. The ruling class, time and again, can spread the information that its actions are based on a sound, scientific and all-acceptable political theory.

(5) Arnold Brecht has regarded a scientific political theory as one of the greatest weapons to defend humanity. On the one hand, it can provide the basis to solve problems like war, development, and abundance; on the other hand, it can expose the ideologies propagated as scientific theories which factually are subversive of the human values. In its applied aspects a theory can control, demarcate and direct the forces of violence, racism, nationalism, sovereign status of states etc. Unless this is done, science and technology are likely to devour its own maker – man.