ISC Class 12 Political Science Board Exam Question Paper 2015 with Solutions

ISC Class 12 Political Science Board Exam Question Paper 2015 with Solutions

Part - I (Compulsory)

Question 1. Answer briefly each of the questions (i) to (xv): [30 Marks]

(i) State Aristotle's Theory of Cyclic Change. [2 Marks]

Answer:
Aristotle proposed that forms of government undergo a continuous cycle of change from pure to degenerate forms and back. According to him, monarchy degenerates into tyranny, which is overthrown to establish aristocracy, which degenerates into oligarchy, which is replaced by polity (constitutional government), which in turn degenerates into democracy (mobocracy) before returning to monarchy.

Teacher's Note:
a) Remember the classification into normal (pure) and perverted (corrupt) forms.
b) Students often confuse Aristotle's cycle with modern political transitions; stick strictly to his classical six-fold classification.

(ii) Give an example of a Federal State and a Quasi Federal State. [2 Marks]

Answer:
The United States of America is an example of a Federal State. India is an example of a Quasi Federal State.

Teacher's Note:
a) A federal state features dual government and a rigid constitution with clear division of powers.
b) India is termed quasi-federal by K.C. Wheare because of strong unitary features like a single Constitution and an integrated judiciary.

(iii) Mention any two merits of a Parliamentary System of Government. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. It ensures harmony and cooperation between the legislature and the executive, as the executive is drawn from the legislature.
2. It is more responsible and responsive to public opinion, as ministers are accountable to the parliament for their actions and policies.

Teacher's Note:
a) Highlight the executive-legislative relationship as the core advantage.
b) Avoid writing vague points; clearly state accountability and harmony.

(iv) State any two conventions of the written constitution of the United States of America. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The tradition that the President may not serve for more than two terms (later formalized by the 22nd Amendment).
2. Senatorial courtesy, which requires the President to consult senators from a state before appointing federal officials within that state.

Teacher's Note:
a) Even written constitutions rely on unwritten practices or conventions for smooth functioning.
b) Ensure accurate examples specific to the American political system.

(v) Define cumulative vote system. [2 Marks]

Answer:
The cumulative vote system is a method of minority representation in multi-member constituencies where each voter is given as many votes as there are seats to be filled, and has the freedom to either distribute them among multiple candidates or cumulate all their votes for a single candidate.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain that this method helps minority groups pool their votes to secure representation.
b) Mention multi-member constituencies as a prerequisite.

(vi) Explain the meaning of Psychological Basis for the organization of political parties. [2 Marks]

Answer:
The psychological basis refers to the inherent human tendency to associate with people who share similar opinions, beliefs, ideologies, and temperaments, leading individuals to form groups like political parties to pursue common political goals.

Answer:
Judicial review has undermined the legislature by empowering courts to declare legislative enactments unconstitutional and void (ultra vires), effectively overriding the will of the elected representatives of the people and functioning as a super-legislature.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain the power of courts to strike down laws.
b) Note the criticism that unelected judges invalidate laws passed by democratically elected bodies.

(viii) What is the tenure of the President of USA? How many terms can the US President serve? [2 Marks]

Answer:
The tenure of the President of the USA is 4 years. A US President can serve a maximum of two terms.

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention the 22nd Amendment which restricted the tenure to two terms.
b) Keep the answer precise and factual.

(ix) Name the two conventions that are followed while appointing the British Prime Minister. [2 Marks]

Answer:
1. The Prime Minister must be the leader of the majority party or coalition in the House of Commons.
2. The Prime Minister must be a member of the House of Commons (and not the House of Lords).

Teacher's Note:
a) Conventions are unwritten rules adhered to due to political and constitutional obligation.
b) Ensure both criteria are clearly stated.

(x) Explain the statement 'American President can pigeon hole any bill'. [2 Marks]

Answer:
This refers to the President's power of the pocket veto, where if Congress adjourns within ten days of submitting a bill to the President and the President takes no action on it, the bill automatically dies without receiving a formal veto.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain the concept of pocket veto clearly.
b) Clarify that 'pigeon-holing' effectively sidelines a bill without explicit rejection.

(xi) Why is the judiciary in USA called the two tier system? [2 Marks]

Answer:
The judiciary in the USA is called a two-tier system because judicial power is divided between the federal court system (dealing with federal laws and the Constitution) and the state court systems (dealing with state laws and local matters).

Teacher's Note:
a) Mention the dual structure of federal and state courts.
b) Avoid confusing this with court hierarchy; it refers to the dual jurisdiction framework.

(xii) State what is meant by open trial system. [2 Marks]

Answer:
An open trial system is a judicial procedure where court proceedings are held publicly in open courtrooms, allowing media, observers, and general citizens to attend and witness the administration of justice.

Teacher's Note:
a) Highlight transparency as the core principle of an open trial.
b) Mention that it acts as a safeguard against arbitrary justice.

(xiii) Explain the meaning of Jury System. [2 Marks]

Answer:
The jury system is a legal process where a body of ordinary citizens (usually twelve) is empaneled to hear evidence in a trial and render a verdict on questions of fact, while the judge decides questions of law.

Teacher's Note:
a) Distinguish between the role of the jury (deciding facts) and the judge (deciding law).
b) Note its prominence in Anglo-Saxon legal traditions.

(xiv) What is casteism? [2 Marks]

Answer:
Casteism is an uncritical and blind allegiance to one's own caste, often leading to discrimination against other castes, the promotion of caste interests over national interest, and the politicization of caste identities.

Teacher's Note:
a) Define casteism as a social evil and political challenge.
b) Emphasize how it undermines national integration and democracy.

(xv) State the importance of reforms in the education system to check communalism under strengthening Indian Democracy. [2 Marks]

Answer:
Education reforms help foster secular values, scientific temper, and tolerance toward diverse religions and cultures among students, thereby eliminating communal prejudices at an early stage and strengthening secular democracy.

Teacher's Note:
a) Connect education to the promotion of national integration and secularism.
b) Emphasize values of tolerance and mutual respect in curricula.

Part - II

Section - A

Answer two questions

Question 2.
(a) C.F. Strong has suggested a modern classification of States. Explain the same, with the help of examples. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. C.F. Strong classifies modern states based on the nature of the constitution and the distribution of governmental powers.
2. Unitary and Federal States: Based on the division of power. In a unitary state (e.g., UK, France), all powers are concentrated in the central government. In a federal state (e.g., USA, Switzerland), powers are divided between the center and regional units by a rigid constitution.
3. Parliamentary and Presidential Executives: Based on the relationship between the executive and the legislature. In a parliamentary system (e.g., India, UK), the executive is responsible to the legislature. In a presidential system (e.g., USA), the executive is independent of the legislature.
4. Monarchy and Republic: Based on the nature of the head of state. A monarchy has a hereditary ruler (e.g., UK), while a republic has an elected head of state (e.g., India, USA).
5. Rigid and Flexible Constitutions: Based on the method of amendment. A rigid constitution requires a special procedure for amendments (e.g., USA), while a flexible constitution can be amended by ordinary legislative process (e.g., UK).

Teacher's Note:
a) Structure the answer around C.F. Strong's standard criteria of classification.
b) Provide accurate examples for each category to secure full marks.

(b) Discuss any six merits under Indian Constitution of liberal democracy. [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Universal Adult Franchise: It grants the right to vote to all adult citizens without discrimination based on caste, religion, sex, or wealth.
2. Protection of Fundamental Rights: Part III of the Constitution guarantees essential liberties to citizens against state encroachment.
3. Independent Judiciary: It ensures the rule of law and protects citizens' rights against executive and legislative overreach.
4. Regular and Free Elections: An independent Election Commission conducts periodic elections, ensuring peaceful transfer of power.
5. Rule of Law: All citizens are equal before the law, and no one is above the law.
6. Decentralization of Power: Panchayati Raj and municipal bodies ensure grassroots democratic participation.

Teacher's Note:
a) List six distinct constitutional provisions supporting liberal democracy.
b) Briefly explain each point with reference to the Indian context.

Question 3.
(a) Distinguish between the unitary form of government and the federal form of government. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Concentration vs. Division of Power: In a unitary government, all powers are concentrated in the central government. In a federal government, powers are divided constitutionally between the central and regional governments.
2. Supremacy of Constitution: A unitary state may have a written or unwritten constitution where the legislature is supreme. A federal state requires a written and rigid constitution that is supreme over all organs.
3. Single vs. Dual Citizenship: Unitary states typically feature single citizenship (e.g., UK), whereas federations like the USA feature dual citizenship.
4. Judiciary: A unitary state may or may not have an independent judiciary with power of judicial review. A federal state necessitates an independent judiciary with the authority to resolve center-state disputes and interpret the constitution.
5. Suitability: Unitary governments are best suited for small countries with homogenous populations, while federal governments are ideal for large countries with diverse regional characteristics.

Teacher's Note:
a) Present the distinction clearly using comparative points.
b) Support each point with appropriate examples such as UK for unitary and USA for federal.

(b) Discuss any six merits of a Presidential form of Government. [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Stability of Government: The executive is not dependent on a legislative majority and serves a fixed term, ensuring political stability.
2. Decisive Action in Emergencies: The President possesses concentrated executive authority to take swift and firm decisions during crises.
3. Separation of Powers: The clear division between the executive and legislature prevents concentration of authority and promotes checks and balances.
4. Expert Administration: The President can appoint domain experts and professionals as department heads rather than political party members.
5. Freedom from Party Pressures: Ministers are accountable to the President, freeing them from immediate legislative party pressures.
6. Continuity of Policy: Long-term plans can be executed without the threat of sudden government collapse.

Teacher's Note:
a) Enumerate six clear advantages of the presidential system.
b) Emphasize fixed tenure and administrative stability as key merits.

Question 4.
(a) The distinction between a written and unwritten constitution is a false one. Discuss this statement. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Meaning of Written and Unwritten: A written constitution is enacted and compiled in a single constitutional document by a constituent assembly. An unwritten constitution is not compiled in one book; it consists of customs, traditions, judicial decisions, and historical statutes.
2. The False Distinction (Wheare's View): As K.C. Wheare observed, no constitution is purely written or purely unwritten.
3. Elements in Written Constitutions: Even written constitutions like those of India and the USA rely heavily on unwritten conventions, judicial interpretations, and usages for their daily operation.
4. Elements in Unwritten Constitutions: Even an unwritten constitution like that of the UK contains significant written parts, such as Magna Carta, the Bill of Rights, and acts of Parliament.
5. Conclusion: Therefore, the difference is merely one of degree and form, not of kind. Every constitution contains both written and unwritten elements, making the absolute distinction illusory.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain both definitions before presenting the critical analysis by political thinkers.
b) Conclude with a balanced perspective on why the dichotomy is considered superficial.

(b) Explain any three merits and any three demerits of a rigid constitution. [6 Marks]

Answer:
Merits:
1. Stability: It prevents hasty and whimsical amendments by transient political majorities.
2. Protection of Minorities: It safeguards the rights of minorities against majoritarian dominance by requiring broad consensus for changes.
3. Respect and Legitimacy: Because it is difficult to alter, it commands greater reverence and stability among citizens.
Demerits:
1. Inflexibility during Crisis: It may fail to adapt quickly to changing socio-economic and political circumstances.
2. Risk of Revolution: If legitimate demands for reform cannot be met through constitutional amendment, it may lead to civil unrest or revolution.
3. Judicial Overreach: Courts may be forced to stretch constitutional interpretations to fit modern realities, leading to judicial activism.

Teacher's Note:
a) Clearly separate merits and demerits with headings or bullet points.
b) Explain how rigidity protects fundamental values while risking stagnation.

Section - B

Answer three questions

Question 5.
(a) Explain how the system of checks and balances makes the theory of separation of powers workable in the United States. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Separation of Powers in US: The US Constitution strictly separates governmental powers among the Legislature (Congress), Executive (President), and Judiciary (Supreme Court).
2. The Danger of Deadlock: Absolute separation can lead to administrative deadlocks and tyranny by any single unchecked branch.
3. The Checks and Balances Mechanism: To prevent this, the constitution grants each branch constitutional means to check the power of the other two.
4. Executive Checks: The President can veto legislation passed by Congress; the President appoints federal judges with Senate confirmation.
5. Legislative Checks: Congress can override a presidential veto by a two-thirds majority; the Senate confirms executive appointments and ratifies treaties; Congress can impeach the President and judges.
6. Judicial Checks: The Supreme Court can declare executive actions and legislative laws unconstitutional through judicial review.
7. Conclusion: This mutual checking mechanism softens strict separation, ensuring cooperation and preventing authoritarianism.

Teacher's Note:
a) Explain the principle of separation of powers and why checks and balances are necessary.
b) Provide specific examples of interaction between the executive, legislature, and judiciary in the USA.

(b) Why is Universal Adult Franchise the most accepted form of Representation in a modern state? [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Principle of Political Equality: It embodies the democratic principle of one person, one vote, ensuring equal political value for every citizen.
2. Inclusive Representation: It allows all segments of society, regardless of caste, creed, gender, or wealth, to voice their interests and elect representatives.
3. Fosters National Unity: It integrates marginalized groups into the political mainstream, strengthening allegiance to the state.
4. Political Awakening: It educates citizens politically, making them conscious of their rights and responsibilities.
5. Peaceful Transition of Power: It provides a mechanism for citizens to change governments peacefully through elections rather than violence.
6. Legitimacy of Government: Governments elected through universal suffrage enjoy greater moral authority and democratic legitimacy.

Teacher's Note:
a) List six solid justifications for adult suffrage.
b) Connect franchise directly to democratic legitimacy and equality.

Question 6.
(a) What is meant by the sovereignty of the British Parliament? What are its limitations? [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Meaning of Parliamentary Sovereignty: In the UK, Parliament is the supreme legal authority. It can make, unmake, or amend any law whatsoever, and no court or body has the right to override or set aside an act of Parliament.
2. Key Aspects: Parliament is not bound by any written constitution, nor can any future Parliament bind its successors.
3. Limitations (Political and Practical):
- Public Opinion: No parliament can pass laws that shock the moral conscience or provoke widespread civil disobedience of the electorate.
- International Law and Treaties: The UK is bound by international obligations, conventions, and human rights treaties.
- Devolution: Power devolved to regional assemblies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland creates practical political constraints.
- European and Transnational Bodies: Though modified post-Brexit, international economic and security commitments impose practical limitations.

Teacher's Note:
a) Clearly distinguish between legal sovereignty (absolute) and political/practical limitations.
b) Emphasize Dicey's formulation of parliamentary sovereignty.

(b) Make a comparative study of US House of Representatives and the British House of Commons. [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Composition and Term: The US House of Representatives has fixed 2-year terms, while the British House of Commons has a maximum 5-year term subject to early dissolution.
2. Leadership and Executive Relationship: In the UK, the Prime Minister and cabinet are drawn from the House of Commons and control it. In the US, the executive branch is completely separate from the House of Representatives.
3. Control over Finance: Both houses enjoy primary power over financial legislation, but the House of Commons holds absolute supremacy over money bills without executive veto interference.
4. Party Discipline: Party discipline is extremely strict in the House of Commons due to the parliamentary system, whereas US representatives often vote independently of party lines.
5. Constitutional Status: The House of Commons operates under a sovereign parliament, whereas the US House operates under a constitutional framework subject to judicial review.

Teacher's Note:
a) Draw clear comparative points between the two lower houses.
b) Highlight the structural differences arising from presidential vs. parliamentary systems.

Question 7.
(a) Explain the reasons why the power of the Executive has grown in recent years. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Rise of the Welfare State: Modern states have shifted from police states to welfare states, taking on vast socio-economic responsibilities that require executive leadership.
2. Delegated Legislation: Complex modern legislation requires parliaments to pass skeleton laws, leaving the executive to frame detailed rules and regulations.
3. Emergency Situations: Wars, economic crises, pandemics, and natural disasters require swift and decisive action that only the executive can provide.
4. Growth of Civil Services: The executive commands specialized bureaucratic machinery equipped with technical expertise.
5. Decline of Legislatures: Parliaments often suffer from party polarization, lack of time, and inefficiency, allowing the executive to dominate policy-making.
6. Conduct of Foreign Affairs: Globalization, international diplomacy, and defense necessitate centralized and secret executive action.

Teacher's Note:
a) Enumerate key structural and functional factors responsible for executive expansion.
b) Emphasize welfare state expansion and delegated legislation as primary reasons.

(b) State the main difference between the political executive and the permanent executive. [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Nature of Office: Political executives are elected temporarily (ministers/politicians), whereas permanent executives are appointed through competitive civil service examinations and serve until retirement.
2. Accountability: Political executives are directly responsible and accountable to the legislature and the electorate, whereas permanent executives are accountable to political ministers.
3. Expertise: Political executives may or may not be experts in their departmental fields, whereas permanent executives are trained professionals and domain experts.
4. Role: Political executives formulate broad policies and take major decisions, while permanent executives assist in policy formulation and are responsible for implementation.
5. Tenure: Political executives change with every election or loss of legislative majority, while permanent executives enjoy stability of tenure regardless of changes in government.

Teacher's Note:
a) Clearly contrast ministers (political) with bureaucrats (permanent).
b) Use structured points covering tenure, accountability, and expertise.

Question 8.
(a) Discuss the functions of the Judiciary. [8 Marks]

Answer:
1. Administration of Justice: Resolving civil and criminal disputes according to established laws.
2. Interpretation of Laws: Ascertaining the true meaning of legislative enactments when applied to specific legal cases.
3. Law-Making (Judge-Made Law): Through judicial precedents and interpretations, courts fill gaps in existing statutes.
4. Guardian of the Constitution: In federal systems, the judiciary acts as an umpire between the center and states, and protects constitutional provisions.
5. Protection of Fundamental Rights: Issuing writs and orders to safeguard citizens' liberties against state violation.
6. Advisory Functions: Providing legal opinions to the executive or head of state on constitutional questions when requested.

Teacher's Note:
a) Cover both traditional and constitutional functions of the judiciary.
b) Highlight its role as guardian of citizens' rights and the constitution.

(b) Discuss the original and appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India. [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Original Jurisdiction: Covers disputes where the Supreme Court has exclusive authority to hear the case first. This includes disputes between the Government of India and one or more States, or between states inter se. Under Article 32, it also enforces fundamental rights.
2. Appellate Jurisdiction: The authority to review and revise judgements of lower courts and High Courts.
3. Constitutional Appeals: Appeals from High Court judgements involving substantial questions of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution.
4. Civil Appeals: Appeals in civil matters certified by the High Court as involving a substantial question of general importance.
5. Criminal Appeals: Appeals against High Court judgements that reversed an acquittal and sentenced a person to death or imprisonment for life.

Teacher's Note:
a) Distinguish clearly between original (first instance) and appellate (review) jurisdictions.
b) Mention constitutional provisions such as Article 32 for original writ jurisdiction.

Question 9.
(a) State any two consequences of regional imbalances. Suggest six steps for removing regional imbalances. [8 Marks]

Answer:
Consequences of regional imbalances:
1. Growth of sub-nationalism, separatism, and secessionist movements.
2. Large-scale migration from backward regions to developed urban centers, leading to overcrowding and slum expansion.
Steps for removing regional imbalances:
1. Directing public and private sector investments toward economically backward areas.
2. Providing special financial packages, tax incentives, and subsidies for establishing industries in underdeveloped regions.
3. Improving infrastructure such as roads, power, transport, and communication in backward areas.
4. Expanding quality educational and healthcare facilities in neglected regions.
5. Promoting agricultural diversification and rural development programs.
6. Ensuring equitable resource allocation and financial devolution by central and state planning bodies.

Teacher's Note:
a) Address both parts of the question clearly: consequences and remedial steps.
b) Emphasize economic planning and targeted infrastructure development as key solutions.

(b) Give any six ways to combat Separatism. [6 Marks]

Answer:
1. Promoting inclusive economic development and removing regional disparities.
2. Ensuring effective devolution of political power and genuine federal autonomy to regions.
3. Protecting cultural, linguistic, and ethnic identities of minority groups.
4. Fostering national integration through education, cultural exchanges, and secular values.
5. Conducting fair and open dialogues with aggrieved groups within the constitutional framework.
6. Dealing firmly with anti-national and terrorist elements using constitutional law enforcement.

Teacher's Note:
a) Enumerate six practical socio-political strategies to counter separatist tendencies.
b) Balance democratic dialogue with the firm maintenance of law and order.