Question

Explain the main function of political theory

Answer 1

Answer: functions:

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.