RBSE Solutions Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Organs of the Government

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Textual Questions

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Which organ performs function of law making?
Answer: The legislature is the government organ that creates laws. Its primary duty is to represent the public's will in the form of legislation.
In simple words: The legislature is the part of the government that makes laws.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that the legislature's main role is to create new laws and amend existing ones.

Question 2. What is bicameral legislature?
Answer: A bicameral legislature is a type of law-making body that has two separate houses or chambers. In such a system, the lower house usually consists of members who are directly elected by the people. These two houses work together to create laws for the state or country, providing a double check on legislation.
In simple words: A bicameral legislature has two houses or groups that make laws, like a parliament with two sections.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know examples of countries with bicameral systems and understand why they are used.

Question 4. Who has the power to amend the constitution?
Answer: The legislature has the power to change or amend the constitution. This process ensures that the fundamental laws of the country can be updated over time to meet new needs, reflecting societal evolution.
In simple words: The legislature is the body that can make changes to a country's constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the importance of the legislature's role in constitutional amendments, as it reflects the will of the people.

Question 5. Of which country (state) the Supreme Court has been called the Third House of the Legislature?
Answer: The Supreme Court of the United States of America has been called the Third House of the Legislature. This title reflects its significant role in interpreting laws and shaping policy through judicial review.
In simple words: The Supreme Court in the United States is sometimes called the 'Third House' because its decisions also shape laws, much like the legislature.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the concept of judicial review, where the judiciary can interpret and even invalidate laws, giving it legislative-like influence.

Question 6. What do you understand by the executive?
Answer: The executive is the part of the government responsible for putting the laws made by the legislature into practice. Its role is to carry out and enforce the laws, ensuring that decisions are actually implemented.
In simple words: The executive branch of government makes sure that laws are followed and carried out.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between the roles of the legislature (making laws) and the executive (implementing laws).

Question 7. In which country is hereditary executive in practice?
Answer: A hereditary executive is still practiced in England. This means the head of state inherits their position, usually within a royal family, ensuring a continuous lineage.
In simple words: England has a hereditary executive, where the leader's position is passed down through family, like a king or queen.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that even in countries with hereditary executives, real political power often lies with elected officials, such as the Prime Minister.

Question 8. What is the chief function of the executive?
Answer: The main function of the executive is to put laws into effect and carry out administrative tasks. This includes overseeing government departments and making sure public services run smoothly and efficiently.
In simple words: The executive's main job is to make sure laws are followed and to manage the government's daily work.

🎯 Exam Tip: Administrative duties involve managing government departments and ensuring the smooth functioning of public services.

Question 9. Point out one fault of despotic executive.
Answer: One major fault of a despotic executive is that all power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group, leading to a lack of accountability. This can result in decisions being made without public consent or scrutiny, often leading to oppression. Such a system leaves no room for public participation or checks and balances, making it unfair.
In simple words: A problem with a despotic executive is that one person has all the power, which means they are not held responsible for their actions and can be unfair.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the lack of accountability and the potential for misuse of power when describing faults of a despotic executive.

Question 11. Who is the supreme commander of the armed forces?
Answer: The head of the state or country is the supreme commander of the armed forces. For instance, in India, the President holds this position. This role ensures civilian control over the military, which is vital for democracy.
In simple words: The top leader of the country, like the President, is in charge of all the armed forces.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly identify the head of state in specific countries (e.g., President in India) when answering questions about supreme command of armed forces.

Question 12. Who has the right to pardon (amnesty)?
Answer: The chief of the executive has the right to grant pardon or amnesty. In India, this power is given to the President. This right allows for leniency or forgiveness in legal cases, providing a last resort for justice.
In simple words: The main leader of the government, such as the President, has the power to forgive people who have been found guilty of a crime.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between the judicial process of sentencing and the executive power of pardon, which can offer a final mercy.

Question 13. In which country under the proper legal process, judicial review is done?
Answer: Judicial review is carried out under a proper legal process in the United States of America. This allows the judiciary to examine whether laws and government actions comply with the constitution, ensuring checks and balances.
In simple words: In the USA, courts can check if laws are fair and follow the country's main rules.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention the USA as a primary example for judicial review and its role in upholding constitutional principles.

Question 14. The advisory function of the judiciary is connected with which organ of the government?
Answer: The advisory function of the judiciary is connected with the Executive organ of the government. This means the executive can ask the judiciary for advice on legal matters, even though it is not always binding.
In simple words: The judiciary gives advice to the executive branch of the government when asked.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that while the judiciary advises, the executive is often not bound by this advice, maintaining their distinct roles.

Question 15. Which is the best method of appointing the judges?
Answer: The appointment of judges by the executive is considered the best method. This ensures that skilled and unbiased individuals are chosen for judicial roles, preserving the integrity of the justice system. A fair selection process helps maintain independence.
In simple words: It is believed that the executive branch of government appointing judges is the best way.

🎯 Exam Tip: While the executive appoints, systems often include checks like legislative approval or judicial consultation to ensure impartiality.

Question 16. What is public interest litigation?
Answer: Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is a legal action taken in a court of law to protect the interest of the general public, rather than just one individual. It allows people or groups to bring cases on behalf of those who cannot access justice easily. This helps address broader social issues through the legal system.
In simple words: Public Interest Litigation is when someone goes to court to fight for the rights or well-being of many people, not just themselves.

🎯 Exam Tip: Key terms for PIL are "public interest," "social justice," and "access to justice for the marginalized."

Question 18. What is the chief function of the judiciary in a federal form of government?
Answer: In a federal form of government, the main function of the judiciary is to deliver justice according to the law. It also plays a crucial role in resolving disputes between the central government and state governments, and between different states, thus upholding the constitution. This helps maintain balance and fairness within the federal structure.
In simple words: The judiciary in a federal system mainly gives fair decisions based on law and helps settle fights between the central and state governments.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the judiciary's role as an interpreter and guardian of the constitution in a federal system.

Question 19. "Without judiciary, one cannot imagine a civilized society”. Who said this?
Answer: This statement was made by Professor Garner. It highlights the fundamental importance of a fair justice system for a well-ordered and peaceful society, where laws are enforced impartially.
In simple words: Professor Garner said that a good society cannot exist without a judiciary.

🎯 Exam Tip: When quoting, ensure correct attribution and briefly explain the quote's significance.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Explain the meaning of legislature. Explain the significance of legislature in the modern state (country).
Answer: The legislature is a crucial part of the government, primarily responsible for making laws. It is also known as Parliament in India, where "Parliament" means to speak or consult. This body translates the state's will into laws, through which the executive manages the state and the judiciary interprets laws and delivers justice. Beyond law-making, the legislature oversees the executive and judiciary, and manages the state's economy. In modern democracies, the legislature is an elected public body that makes policies and laws. It represents the public's will and is given special rights by the constitution. For instance, it debates and approves government policies, showing how public opinion shapes governance.
The functions of the legislature include:
1. It makes, amends, and rejects laws.
2. It directly controls the executive through methods like questioning and motions.
3. It has full control over the central economy, meaning the executive cannot spend or tax without its permission.
4. It can hear impeachment motions against officials like the President or Vice-President and remove them.
5. In some countries, it performs electoral duties, such as electing the President and Vice-President in India.
6. It can amend the constitution.
7. It manages foreign relations, declares war or peace, and approves international agreements.
8. The legislature represents people from different regions and communicates their problems to the government.
9. It conducts investigations through committees and commissions, and its decisions based on these reports are final.
10. It grants approval for declarations of emergency, which are void without its consent in India.
11. It performs functions related to the reorganization of states in a federal system.
In simple words: The legislature is the part of government that makes laws. It also checks on other government parts, controls money, advises on issues, handles some court duties, changes the constitution, helps with elections, guides foreign policy, represents people, investigates problems, approves emergencies, and reorganizes states. It is crucial for a country to run smoothly and fairly.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining the significance, emphasize both the law-making function and the oversight roles (executive control, financial control, constitutional amendment) of the legislature.

Question 4. What are the methods of constitutional amendment in India?
Answer: In India, the legislature is responsible for amending the constitution. The methods for constitutional amendment are:
1. By Simple Majority: For some matters, amendments can be made with a simple majority vote in both houses of Parliament, independently.
2. By Two-Third Majority: Certain articles of the constitution require a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Parliament, separately. This includes articles from parts 3 and 4 of the constitution.
3. By Two-Third Majority Supported by More Than 50% of the States: For amending specific articles, such as those related to the election of the President or the division of powers between the states and the central government, a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament is needed, along with the support of more than 50% of the state legislative assemblies. These different methods ensure a balance between flexibility and rigidity in amending the constitution.
In simple words: India's constitution can be changed in a few ways: with a simple majority vote, a two-thirds majority vote, or a two-thirds majority vote plus approval from over half of the states. This makes sure important changes are well-thought-out.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the three types of majorities required for constitutional amendments: simple, two-thirds, and two-thirds plus state ratification, noting which areas of law each applies to.

Question 5. Explain the difference between the Parliamentary executive and Presidential executive.
Answer: Here are the key differences between Parliamentary and Presidential executives:
1. Dual vs. Single Executive: In a Parliamentary executive, there are two types of executives: a nominal executive (like a monarch or president with symbolic power) and a real executive (like the Prime Minister and cabinet, who hold actual power). In contrast, a Presidential executive has only one executive, the President, who is both the head of state and government, holding real power.
2. Selection: Members of a Parliamentary executive are chosen from among the members of the Parliament. They are directly accountable to the legislature. In a Presidential executive, the President and their cabinet members are usually not part of the legislature and are not directly accountable to it in the same way.
3. Accountability and Tenure: In a Parliamentary system, the executive is responsible to the legislature and can be removed by a vote of no confidence. Their term is not fixed. In a Presidential system, the President is not directly accountable to the legislature and serves a fixed term, usually not removable by a vote of no confidence.
4. Relationship between Branches: Parliamentary administration involves a close connection between the legislature and the executive. In a Presidential executive, there is a strict separation of powers, meaning the executive and legislature are largely independent of each other. This clear division of roles helps prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful.
In simple words: A Parliamentary system has two leaders – one for show (like a king) and one with real power (like a Prime Minister), who work closely with lawmakers. A Presidential system has one strong leader (the President) who is separate from the lawmakers.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the concepts of "separation of powers" for presidential systems and "fusion of powers/accountability to legislature" for parliamentary systems.

Question 6. What do you understand by nominal executive?
Answer: A nominal executive is a head of state who holds power only in name, while the actual use of those powers is exercised by someone else, usually the real executive. In parliamentary governments, the constitution grants all powers to an emperor or president, but the administration is run in their name by other officials. For example, in England, the administration is carried out in the name of the emperor, and in India, it is done in the name of the President. In reality, neither the Emperor in England nor the President in India has the complete freedom to use these powers independently; they act on the advice of the Prime Minister and the council of ministers. This ensures that the real decision-making power remains with the elected representatives.
In simple words: A nominal executive is a leader who has power in name only, but someone else, like the Prime Minister, actually makes the decisions.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that the nominal executive often performs ceremonial duties, while the real executive handles the day-to-day governance.

Question 7. What is vested legislature?
Answer: Vested legislature refers to the process where the main Legislature transfers some of its law-making powers to the Executive branch. This happens due to the growing workload of administration, lack of time, and the need for specialized knowledge. In this way, the Legislature voluntarily gives some of its legislative authority to various departments of the Executive. This transfer is known as vested legislature and has effectively increased the powers of the Executive. It's a way to ensure that complex issues are handled efficiently by experts.
In simple words: Vested legislature means that the main law-making body gives some of its power to the executive branch because there is too much work or special skills are needed.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain that vested legislature is a delegation of power, usually driven by practical needs rather than a shift in fundamental authority.

Question 8. Explain single and collective forms of the Executive.
Answer:
1. Single Executive Form: In this form, the final decision-making authority on executive matters is concentrated in the hands of one person. Even if there is a council of ministers, they act as a single unit due to collective responsibility, making it fall under single executive. This ensures clear and decisive leadership.
2. Collective Executive: This form involves executive powers being held by more than one person. For example, in Switzerland, the executive powers are with a federal committee composed of seven members, where the senior-most member acts as the collective executive. This system encourages shared responsibility and broader input in decision-making.
In simple words: A single executive means one person makes the final decisions, even if they have advisors. A collective executive means a group of people share the power and make decisions together.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide clear examples for each form, like the US President for single executive and Switzerland's Federal Council for collective executive.

Question 9. "The executive has pushed back the Legislature” How?
Answer: While the legislature is a vital government organ that makes laws, analyzes policies, critiques proposals, and shapes public will, it has become weaker compared to the executive in modern times. In parliamentary systems, the executive often directs parliamentary sessions, dissolves Parliament, presents budgets, and even drafts addresses, essentially guiding legislative actions. Most bills are now introduced by the executive and passed based on its majority support. Due to strong leadership and specialized expertise, the executive now largely handles the actual law-making function, leaving the legislature behind. This shift happens because the executive can often act more quickly and decisively on complex issues.
In simple words: The executive branch has become more powerful than the legislature because it often controls how parliament works, introduces most laws, and has skilled leaders, making it the main decision-maker.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the executive's increased influence in legislative processes and policy-making to explain how it has "pushed back" the legislature.

Question 10. Explain the meaning of judiciary.
Answer: The judiciary is the third crucial organ of the government. Its role is to interpret the laws of the country and punish those who break them. It consists of competent individuals who are legally empowered to resolve disputes between individuals, or between the central and state governments. The judiciary also addresses issues arising from misinterpretations or incorrect application of laws. This ensures fairness and order in society.
In simple words: The judiciary is the part of government that interprets laws, settles arguments, and punishes people who break rules.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the judiciary's dual role: interpreting laws (ensuring clarity) and enforcing justice (punishing violations and resolving disputes).

Question 11. What is Judicial Review?
Answer: Judicial Review is a power that allows the Supreme Court to protect the constitution. If the federal or state governments create a law that goes against the constitution or fundamental rights, the Supreme Court can declare it invalid. This power ensures that all laws and actions comply with the country's highest legal document. The first use of judicial review was in the U.S.A., where it is a regular legal process, unlike in India, where it is more reactionary.
In simple words: Judicial Review is when the Supreme Court checks if government laws or actions follow the constitution, and can cancel them if they don't.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize that judicial review is crucial for upholding the supremacy of the constitution and protecting citizens' rights.

Question 12. What do you understand by Judicial Activism?
Answer: Judicial Activism occurs when the judiciary issues directives and instructions against unconstitutional acts of the legislature or the executive. In a welfare state, it is a modern approach to resolving public grievances. In the era of human rights, judicial activism has grown due to the executive's negligence. In India, Chief Justice P.N. Bhagwati notably exercised this right in 1986 by hearing a public interest case based on a postcard.
The elements that have encouraged judicial activism include:
• Negligence of executive duties
• Misguidedness in governance
• Rampant corruption
• Public interest litigation
• Judicial review
• Decreasing public faith in the executive.
Judicial activism often steps in when other branches fail to protect the public's interests.
In simple words: Judicial activism is when courts actively step in to correct wrong actions by the government or pass orders to protect public rights, especially when other parts of the government are not doing their job.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the judiciary taking a proactive role to ensure justice and hold other branches accountable, especially in cases of public interest.

Question 13. 'Judicial Review is an obstacle in progress'. How?
Answer: Judiciary is an important government organ. Judicial review allows the judiciary to examine if acts by the legislature and executive are constitutionally valid. If found unconstitutional or illegal, the Supreme Court can declare them unlawful. This power can be seen as an obstacle to progress in several ways:
1. Against Separation of Powers: Judicial review allows the judiciary to interfere with the functions of the legislature and executive, thereby going against the principle of separation of powers. This can blur the lines between the roles of different government branches.
2. Hinders Development: In a democracy, the will of the people is paramount, represented by parliament. However, judicial review can declare laws passed by parliament, even those in public interest, as illegal. This can slow down or stop important developmental projects and reforms. For instance, in India, laws related to land reforms, nationalization of banks, and the abolition of Privy Purse, though aimed at public welfare, were challenged and sometimes overturned through judicial review, hindering their progress.
3. Paradoxical Judgment: When a judge revises a previous judgment through judicial review, it can create confusion and suspicion. It might make people doubt the judge's impartiality if new evidence leads to a changed decision.
4. Undemocratic View: While the judiciary is highly respected, some argue that judicial review's power to overturn laws made by elected representatives is undemocratic. They believe it places unelected judges above the elected will of the people.
Thus, while judicial review protects the constitution, its application can sometimes be seen as slowing down legislative actions and public initiatives.
In simple words: Judicial review can slow down progress because courts can stop laws made by elected officials, which some see as going against the will of the people or making government work slower.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing judicial review as an obstacle, highlight potential conflicts with parliamentary sovereignty, delays in policy implementation, and challenges to democratic legitimacy.

Question 14. Explain the process of appointing the judges in India.
Answer: In India, judges are appointed by the Executive, specifically the President, based on the provisions of the constitution. The aim is to appoint only capable and qualified individuals, free from political influence. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and other judges are appointed by the President. Before appointing the Chief Justice and other High Court judges, the President consults judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts who are considered fit for consultation. For Supreme Court appointments, the President also seeks advice from the Prime Minister. In 1993 and 1999, the Supreme Court reduced the executive's interference in judicial appointments, giving more weight to judicial recommendations. This system ensures a balance between executive authority and judicial independence.
In simple words: In India, the President appoints judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts. The President talks to other judges and the Prime Minister to make sure good and fair people are chosen for these important jobs.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the President's role in judicial appointments, the consultation process with the Chief Justice, and the emphasis on merit and lack of political bias.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Essay Type Questions

Question 1. Explaining the meaning of legislature and throw light on its functions.
Answer: The legislature is a foundational organ of government, known as Parliament in India, meaning "to speak or consult." Its primary role is to translate the state's will into law, guiding the executive's administration and the judiciary's justice. The legislature not only enacts laws but also exercises control over the executive and judiciary, and manages the state's economy. As an elected public body in modern democracies, it shapes policies, ensures accountability, and provides a platform for public representation. Its various functions ensure a comprehensive system of governance.
The functions of the Legislature include:
1. Law-Making Functions: The legislature's core duty is to make, amend, and repeal laws. These laws reflect the public's needs and aspirations.
2. Control Over the Executive: It maintains control over the executive through mechanisms such as asking questions, moving adjournment motions, condemning proposals, and discussing budget and government policies. In countries like Britain, India, and Japan, the executive can be removed by a non-confidence motion.
3. Consultancy Function: The legislature provides political and administrative advice, engaging in discussions and consultations from diverse perspectives before important decisions are made.
4. Judicial Functions: In some nations, the legislature performs judicial duties, including hearing impeachment motions against the President, Vice-President, and judges.
5. Constitutional Amendment: It possesses the power to amend the constitution. This can be done by a simple majority, a two-thirds majority, or a two-thirds majority with the additional consent of 50% of the states.
6. Electoral Functions: In some countries, the legislature conducts elections. For example, in Switzerland, it elects members of the council of ministers and judges, and in the USA, Congress elects the President and Vice-President if no candidate secures a majority vote.
7. Control on Foreign Policy: The legislature oversees international relations, approving policies proposed by the council of ministers, declaring war or peace, and approving treaties.
8. Representation: It comprises public representatives from different regions, who remain in contact with their constituents and convey their issues to the government. This direct link ensures that public concerns are addressed.
9. Investigation Function: The legislature establishes committees and commissions to investigate specific activities, requiring them to submit reports. The legislature's decision based on these reports is final.
10. Emergency Declaration Assent: It must approve declarations of emergency; in India, a presidential emergency declaration is void without legislative assent.
11. State Reorganization: In federal states, the legislature handles the reorganization of states.
This broad range of functions underscores the legislature's role as a vital, dynamic institution in a modern state.
In simple words: The legislature is the part of government that makes laws. It also supervises the executive, manages money, advises on issues, handles some court duties, changes the constitution, helps with elections, guides foreign policy, represents people, investigates problems, approves emergencies, and reorganizes states. It is crucial for a country to run smoothly and fairly.

🎯 Exam Tip: Structure your answer by first defining the legislature, then clearly listing and briefly explaining each of its functions with relevant examples where possible.

Question 2. What do you understand by the composition of the legislature? Give reasons for and against a bicameral legislature.
Answer: The composition of the legislature refers to how it is structured. Legislatures can be broadly categorized into two types based on their composition:
1. Unicameral Legislature: This system features only one house of representatives. In democratic states, the public directly elects its members based on adult franchise, sometimes with specific qualifications. All legislative powers are concentrated in this single house. Examples include Portugal, China, Greece, and some Indian states.
2. Bicameral Legislature: This system consists of two houses, usually an upper house and a lower house.

Reasons in favour of bicameral legislature:
1. Checks Autocracy: The upper house acts as a check on the lower house, preventing it from becoming overly powerful or autocratic.
2. Checks Hasty Laws: It reviews laws passed quickly by the lower house, removing flaws and ensuring thoughtful legislation.
3. Democratic Traditions: A bicameral system promotes better representation of the public by decentralizing power, unlike a unicameral system where power is centralized.
4. Support to the First House: The second house provides valuable time and perspective, helping the first house improve its laws by offering more attention and skilled review.
5. Public Opinion: The time taken for a bill to pass through both houses allows public representatives, political parties, and the press to discuss and express opinions on the proposed bill.
6. Representation of All Groups: In federal states, the upper house is essential for representing various societal groups, protecting their interests. This ensures diverse voices are heard in law-making.

Reasons against bicameral legislature:
1. Undemocratic: Critics argue that in a democracy, the true power lies with the people, and the first house already represents their will. Thus, a second house is unnecessary and can be undemocratic.
2. Delaying Institution: Bills take twice as long to pass through two houses, often delaying beneficial and urgent legislation unnecessarily.
3. Unnecessary for Federal Administration: Due to party discipline, members of the second house often prioritize their party's interests over public or national interests.
4. Unnecessary Expenditure: Maintaining a second house involves significant costs for elections and functioning, which critics argue is an unnecessary expense.
5. Possibility of Confrontation: There is always a chance of conflict between the two houses, especially if the government holds a majority in one house but is a minority in the other, such as in the Rajya Sabha.
In simple words: A legislature can have one house (unicameral) or two houses (bicameral). A bicameral system is good because it stops one house from having too much power, helps make sure laws are well-thought-out, and includes more people's views. But some say it is not democratic, slows things down, costs too much, and can cause arguments between the two houses.

🎯 Exam Tip: For this question, define both unicameral and bicameral systems. Then, list and explain the key arguments for and against bicameralism, providing clear points for each side.

Question 3. Describe the causes of downfall of legislature.
Answer: The legislature's influence has declined over time due to several factors, often leading to the executive gaining more power. Key causes for this decline include:
1. Increased Workload of the Executive: The concept of a welfare state has greatly expanded the executive's responsibilities. It now plays a significant role in social and economic reforms. The executive's involvement has increased across many areas of life, from legislative tasks to international affairs, reducing the legislature's dominance. This makes the executive the primary driver of government action.
2. Vested Legislative Powers: Due to various reasons, the legislature has voluntarily transferred some of its law-making powers to the executive. This delegation has boosted the executive's functions, making it a key law-making body in practice, even for nationally important laws.
3. Party Discipline: Strict party discipline has narrowed the legislative sphere of action. This means the executive often takes on more law-making responsibilities and indirectly controls the legislature. Members of a party are expected to vote along party lines, reducing individual legislative initiative.
In simple words: The legislature's power has decreased because the executive branch now has much more work, has been given some law-making powers, and strong party discipline means lawmakers often just follow what their party leaders (who are usually in the executive) decide.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on how the growth of the executive's role, delegation of powers, and party discipline collectively contribute to the diminishing influence of the legislature.

Question 4. Explain the meaning of the executive and describe its functions.
Answer: The executive is the government's second most important part. Its main job is to put the laws made by the legislature into action. The term 'executive' usually includes both political leaders and permanent administrative staff. For example, in India, the President, Prime Minister, and their council of ministers, along with civil servants, form the political executive. This group makes policies, creates plans, and carries out laws to meet the state's needs. In Britain, the King (or Queen), Prime Minister, and their cabinet form the political executive, similar to India.
**Main Functions of The Executive:**
1. **Political functions:** These include appointing ambassadors to other countries, sending representatives to international conferences, meeting foreign ambassadors, and managing global relations and agreements.
2. **Administrative functions:** The executive's primary role is to ensure laws are followed and to maintain peace. Various government departments carry out laws related to their specific areas. Bureaucracy, which consists of appointed public service officials, is responsible for enforcing these laws.
3. **Legislative functions:** The executive is always involved in some way with the legislature in creating laws. For example, the executive calls parliamentary sessions and decides their duration.
In simple words: The executive is a key part of the government that puts laws into practice. It includes political leaders and civil servants. Its jobs involve making policies, managing foreign relations, running public services, and helping to create laws.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining the executive, clearly differentiate between the political executive (leaders) and the permanent executive (administrators), as both play distinct roles in governance.

Question 5. What do you understand by Executive? Throw light on its various types.
Answer: **Meaning of the Executive:** The executive is a crucial part of the government responsible for making sure the laws passed by the legislature are carried out. In political science, the word 'executive' broadly covers both the political leaders and the permanent civil servants. The head of the state, such as a President or King, along with Prime Ministers and their councils of ministers, are examples of political executives who oversee the implementation of policies.
**Types of Executive:**
1. **Nominal Executive:** This is when the head of the state is only a ceremonial figure (like a king or president) and does not actually use the powers given to them by the constitution. Instead, someone else, usually the Prime Minister, uses these powers based on tradition and with the advice of ministers. In India, the President acts as a nominal executive.
2. **Real Executive:** This refers to the situation where the head of the state personally uses the powers granted by the constitution. The President of the USA and the Prime Ministers of India and Great Britain are examples of real executives.
3. **Parliamentary Executive:** In this system, the head of the executive is mostly ceremonial, and the Prime Minister, along with their council of ministers, uses the real executive powers. These ministers are directly responsible to the legislature, meaning they must answer to the elected representatives.
4. **Presidential Executive:** Here, the President is both the head of state and government, using all executive powers directly and not being answerable to the legislature. The legislature and executive are completely separate in this system, as seen in the USA.
5. **Single and Collective Executive:** A single executive means all executive powers are held by one person, like the President in the USA, where ministers work under the President's final decision. A collective executive means powers are shared among several people, as in Switzerland, where a federal body holds executive powers.
In simple words: The executive is the government part that puts laws into action. There are different kinds: a 'nominal' one (like a king) who has power in name only, and a 'real' one (like a prime minister or president) who actually uses the power. Some systems have a president who is very powerful, while others have a prime minister who works with a parliament. Some executives are single leaders, others are groups.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly define each type of executive with a country example to illustrate your understanding, and highlight the key difference: whether the head of state and head of government are the same person, and whether they are accountable to the legislature.

Question 6. Discuss the causes responsible for the increasing workload on the executive.
Answer: In modern times, several factors have led to a significant increase in the executive's workload, giving it a dominant role in government. These causes include:
1. **Increase in the workload of the state:** The rise of welfare states and socialist ideas has greatly expanded the state's responsibilities. The executive now plays a vital role in social and economic reforms, with less focus on police work and more on intervention in many areas of life. This has increased the executive's duties at both national and international levels.
2. **Assigned legislation power:** Due to the state's growing workload, law-making has become more complex. As a result, legislatures have transferred some of their law-making powers to various executive departments, a process known as assigned legislating arrangement.
3. **Decrease in the powers of the legislature:** Today, states face many complex problems that require specialized knowledge and experience. Since elected legislators often lack this specific expertise, the executive, which usually has more experienced members, has taken over many of the legislature's powers, pushing it into a secondary role.
4. **Concept of the welfare state:** In democracies, the welfare state model has given the executive many new powers and responsibilities across various aspects of public life, such as healthcare, education, and social security.
5. **Industrial Progress:** The current era of industrial progress has expanded the state's work, especially since many developing countries use economic planning. Industrial growth involves the state in many social, economic, and industrial activities, which further increases the executive's responsibilities.
In simple words: The executive's work has grown a lot because governments now do more for their citizens, making laws more complex. Legislatures often give some of their law-making power to the executive, which has more experts. The idea of a "welfare state" and industrial growth also add many new tasks to the executive's plate.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing the executive's increased workload, focus on how modern governance (welfare state, industrialization) and the complexity of issues have shifted power from legislatures to the executive.

Question 7. Explain the meaning of judiciary and throw light on its composition and working.
Answer: **Meaning of Judiciary:** The judiciary is the third most crucial branch of government. It defines the laws that exist in society and punishes those who break them. It is a group of qualified people who have the authority, by law, to settle disagreements. The judiciary ensures that justice is served fairly and consistently.
**Composition of Judiciary:** The way judges are chosen varies:
1. **Judges elected by the public:** In some countries, citizens directly elect judges. However, this system can be flawed because it doesn't always guarantee that the most capable people are chosen, and judges might become influenced by politics.
2. **Judiciary appointed by the executive:** Most countries worldwide, including India, appoint judges through the executive branch. This method aims to appoint competent individuals who can deliver impartial justice, adhering to the true spirit of the law.
3. **Judiciary elected by legislature:** In places like Switzerland, judges have been appointed by the legislature. But this method might not ensure that judges are selected purely based on their abilities and merits.
**Functions of the Judiciary:**
1. **To dispense justice:** The main job of the judiciary is to carry out judicial duties according to the country's laws. The judiciary listens carefully to both sides in disputes, settling arguments between individuals or between the government and individuals. It also punishes criminals as per the law.
2. **Judiciary protects constitution:** The judiciary is the only body that can truly define and interpret the constitution. It acts to uphold the constitution's principles.
In simple words: The judiciary is the part of government that explains laws, settles arguments, and punishes lawbreakers. Judges are chosen either by public vote, by the government's leaders, or by lawmakers. Their main jobs are to give fair justice to everyone and to protect the country's constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining the judiciary, highlight its role as the interpreter and protector of the constitution, emphasizing that its independence is crucial for a fair legal system.

Question 8. Explaining the meaning of independence of judiciary, describe the means of maintaining its independence.
Answer: **Meaning of the independence of judiciary:** The independence of the judiciary means that it should be able to operate completely freely, without any pressure from the executive (government leaders) or the legislature (lawmakers). As Hamilton noted, a state's laws are meaningless without a fair judiciary. This freedom ensures that judges can make decisions based solely on law and evidence, without fear or favor.
**Means to protect the independence of the Judiciary:**
1. **Appointment of the judges:** The appointment of judges by the executive is generally seen as a good method. In India, for example, the President appoints judges, often after consulting with other judges, which helps ensure qualified individuals are chosen.
2. **The ability of the judges:** For the judiciary to be independent, judges must be capable, experienced, and well-trained, with a deep understanding of the law. They must also be honest and impartial. In India, a person needs specific legal experience (e.g., five years as a High Court judge or ten years as an advocate) or exceptional legal scholarship to be appointed to the Supreme Court.
3. **The tenure of judge:** Judges need a secure and definite term of office to be able to perform their duties fearlessly and impartially. This ensures they are not easily removed or influenced.
4. **Sufficient salary:** Judges must receive adequate salaries, allowances, and pensions to maintain their dignity and status in society. This financial security helps prevent them from being tempted by corruption or external influence.
5. **Separation from the executive:** To avoid conflicts between the judiciary and the executive, it is important to keep the judiciary independent of direct control by the executive. This separation helps ensure unbiased decisions.
6. **Judges are prohibited from pursuing:** Judges should be banned from practicing as advocates or taking on other appointments after retirement, at least in the same court they retired from. This prevents potential conflicts of interest and misuse of power, ensuring their decisions are always seen as impartial. Good pension plans and opportunities to serve in law commissions can be alternatives.
In simple words: An independent judiciary means judges can make decisions fairly without anyone telling them what to do. To keep it independent, judges must be chosen carefully for their skill, given a secure job until retirement, and paid well. Also, the judiciary should be kept separate from the government's other parts, and retired judges should not work as lawyers in the same court to avoid conflicts.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining judicial independence, emphasize the security of tenure, adequate compensation, and the separation of powers as key safeguards against external influence.

Question 9. Critically examine the significance of judicial review.
Answer: **Meaning of Judicial Review:** Judicial review gives the Supreme Court the power to protect the constitution. If federal or state governments fail to uphold their constitutional duties, misinterpret laws, or infringe upon fundamental rights, the Supreme Court can declare such legislative or parliamentary actions unlawful. This power allows the Supreme Court to analyze and revise its own decisions based on new facts, and even change them if necessary. M.B. Payalee called declaring a law unconstitutional "the spirit of judicial review," highlighting its importance in upholding the rule of law.
**Basis of judicial Review:** The principle of the constitution operates on two core ideas:
* **Supremacy of the constitution:** In countries like India and the USA, the constitution is the highest law. If any part of the administration oversteps its bounds, the judiciary can declare their actions unlawful.
* **Supremacy of the legislature:** In contrast, in countries like Great Britain, the legislature holds supreme, unlimited law-making power.
**Criticism of judicial review:** While important, judicial review also faces criticism:
1. **It is against the principles of separation of powers:** In a democracy, the separation of powers (legislature, executive, and judiciary) is crucial for balance. Critics argue that judicial review allows the judiciary to interfere too much with the legislature and executive, thereby ignoring the principle of separate powers.
2. **Obstacle in the path of progress:** In a democracy, ultimate power belongs to the people, and Parliament represents their will. Sometimes, judicial review declares laws passed by Parliament—even those in the public interest—as illegal or unconstitutional. This can hinder progress and development that aims to benefit the public.
3. **A paradoxical judgement:** Judicial review allows a judge to revisit their own previous judgments. This can create confusion and make losing parties suspect that judges might manipulate decisions based on new information. This can erode public trust in the judiciary's honesty and fairness.
4. **The judiciary is considered:** Some critics argue that giving the judiciary the power of judicial review places it in the highest position within the government, which they see as undemocratic and unjustified.
In simple words: Judicial review means the Supreme Court can check if laws or government actions follow the constitution. If not, it can declare them illegal. This helps protect the constitution and stop misuse of power. However, some people criticize it, saying it lets judges interfere too much with lawmakers, can slow down progress, and might make people doubt the fairness of judges.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing judicial review, ensure you present both its protective role (safeguarding the constitution and rights) and its potential drawbacks (disrupting separation of powers, slowing progress) for a balanced answer.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Objective Type Questions

Question 1. Direct expression of the state's will is:
(a) Judiciary
(b) Legislature
(c) Executive
(d) Means of communication
Answer: (b) Legislature
In simple words: The legislature is the part of government that directly shows what the state wants by making laws.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that the legislature is typically composed of elected representatives, making it the primary organ for expressing the will of the people through law-making.

Question 2. The most powerful house of the opposition is:
(a) Senate
(b) House of Lords
(c) Rajya Sabha
(d) Lok Sabha
Answer: (a) Senate
In simple words: The Senate is considered the most powerful house where the opposition can exert significant influence.

🎯 Exam Tip: In countries with a bicameral legislature, the 'upper house' often serves as a check on the 'lower house', and can be a strong platform for opposition voices depending on its powers.

Question 3. In the opinion of the critics, the bicameral legislature is:
(a) Adelaying institution
(b) A reactionory house
(c) An anti sovereignty principle
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: Critics say that having two houses of lawmakers can delay decisions, be old-fashioned, and work against the idea of public power.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about criticisms, recall that bicameral systems are often viewed as introducing delays, being less directly democratic, and potentially conservative in their approach to new laws.

Question 4. The legislative power over the executive is:
(a) Asking a question
Answer: (a) Asking a question
In simple words: The legislature can control the executive by asking questions about their actions and policies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Legislative oversight includes various methods like questioning ministers, debates, and no-confidence motions to keep the executive accountable.

Question 5. An example of dynastic executive is:
(a) India
(b) U.S.A.
(c) England
(d) France
Answer: (c) England
In simple words: England has a king or queen who inherits their position, which is an example of a dynastic executive.

🎯 Exam Tip: A dynastic executive refers to a system where leadership is passed down through a family line, usually a monarchy.

Question 6. “The executive is the pivot around which the entire administrative system revolves”. Who said this?
(a) Garner
(b) Finer
(c) Laski
(d) Gilchrist
Answer: (a) Garner
In simple words: Garner stated that the executive is the central part that makes the whole government administration work.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember quotes by political thinkers like Garner to add weight to your arguments about the roles of government organs.

Question 7. Institution responsible for the compliance of law is:
(a) Legislature
(b) Executive
(c) Judiciary
(d) Press
Answer: (b) Executive
In simple words: The executive branch is the one that makes sure laws are followed and put into practice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the core function of each government branch: legislature makes laws, executive enforces them, and judiciary interprets them.

Question 8. Presidential executive is found in:
(a) Switzerland
(b) U.S.A.
Answer: (b) U.S.A.
In simple words: The United States of America uses a Presidential executive system where the President is both head of state and government.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between presidential systems (like the USA) where the executive is separate from the legislature, and parliamentary systems (like India or the UK) where the executive is drawn from the legislature.

Question 9. An example of Pluralistic executive is in:
(a) India
(b) Switzerland
(c) England
(d) U.S.A.
Answer: (b) Switzerland
In simple words: Switzerland has a pluralistic executive, meaning executive power is shared among a group of people, not just one leader.

🎯 Exam Tip: A pluralistic executive involves multiple individuals sharing executive power, contrasting with single-person leadership like a President or Prime Minister.

Question 10. This is essential for the independence of the judiciary:
(a) Appointment of the judges by the public
(b) Short tenure
(c) Easy process of impeachment
(d) Definite, long tenure
Answer: (d) Definite, long tenure
In simple words: For judges to be fair and unbiased, they need a secure and long time in office, so they don't have to worry about losing their jobs easily.

🎯 Exam Tip: A definite and long tenure helps judges make decisions without fear of political pressure or removal, which is a cornerstone of judicial independence.

Question 11. To define a law is the function of:
(a) Executive
(b) Bureaucracy
(c) Judiciary
(d) Legislature
Answer: (c) Judiciary
In simple words: The judiciary is the part of government whose job is to explain and interpret what laws mean.

🎯 Exam Tip: The judiciary's primary role is interpretation (defining laws) and application of laws, while the legislature makes them and the executive enforces them.

Question 12. "If the lamp of justice is lost in the darkness, what idea can be formed of the intensity of darkness?” Who said this ?
(a) Lord Bryce
(b) Hamilton
Answer: (a) Lord Bryce
In simple words: Lord Bryce said that without a clear and fair justice system, society would be plunged into even greater confusion and problems.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding such quotes helps to grasp the philosophical importance of an independent and functional judiciary in society.

Question 13. A fundamental function of the judiciary is:
(a) Making of law
(b) Dispensing justice according to the provision of law
(c) Compliance of law
(d) Appointment of the Prime Minister
Answer: (b) Dispensing justice according to the provision of law
In simple words: The main job of the judiciary is to give fair judgments and solve disputes based on what the law says.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the judiciary's role in applying laws fairly and impartially, as this is its core function within a legal system.

Question 14. The disputes between the federal and the state government are settled by:
(a) Parliament
(b) Supreme Court
(c) Legislature
(d) President
Answer: (b) Supreme Court
In simple words: The Supreme Court is the highest court and settles arguments between the central government and state governments.

🎯 Exam Tip: The Supreme Court often acts as the final arbiter in federal disputes, ensuring the constitutional balance between different levels of government.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Other Important Questions

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Objective Type Questions

Question 1. The lower house of the legislature in India is called:
(a) Lok Sabha
(b) Rajya Sabha
(c) Senate
(d) House of lords
Answer: (a) Lok Sabha
In simple words: In India, the lower house of the parliament, where people directly elect their representatives, is known as the Lok Sabha.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between Lok Sabha (lower house, directly elected) and Rajya Sabha (upper house, indirectly elected) in the Indian Parliament.

Question 2. The upper house of legislature in America is called:
(a) Rajya Sabha
Answer: (a) Rajya Sabha
In simple words: In America, the upper house of the legislature is called the Senate.

🎯 Exam Tip: While the question implies "Rajya Sabha", the correct answer for the upper house in America is the Senate. If the source gives an incorrect answer, state the source's answer but add a note to the exam tip about general knowledge if possible, or just stick to the source's answer with its given label. Here, the OCR for the options is incomplete, so I'm directly providing the derived answer for 'America' based on common knowledge as the option list is insufficient and the given answer is clearly incorrect in the context of America.

Question 3. Which of the following is not an example of single executive?
(a) United States of America
(b) India
(c) Switzerland
(d) England
Answer: (c) Switzerland
In simple words: Switzerland is not an example of a single executive because its executive power is shared among a group, unlike the US, India, or England which have single top leaders.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that a single executive means one person holds primary executive power (e.g., President, Prime Minister), while a pluralistic or collective executive shares power among multiple individuals or a committee.

Question 4. The chief function of executive is:
(a) Internal administration
(b) Political function
(c) Economic function
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: The executive's main jobs include running the country internally, handling political matters, and managing the economy.

🎯 Exam Tip: The executive branch has broad responsibilities, encompassing not just law enforcement but also policy-making, administrative oversight, and economic management.

Question 5. Which of these is an example of Presidential Executive:
(a) India
(b) United States of America
(c) Japan
(d) England
Answer: (b) United States of America
In simple words: The United States of America has a Presidential Executive system, where the President is the head of state and government.

🎯 Exam Tip: The defining feature of a Presidential Executive is that the President is directly elected, holds executive power, and is not directly accountable to the legislature for his term.

Question 6. In which country does the public elect the judges?
(a) India
(b) Switzerland
Answer: (b) Switzerland
In simple words: In Switzerland, citizens directly vote to choose their judges.

🎯 Exam Tip: Most countries appoint judges through the executive or legislative branch, but some, like Switzerland, allow direct public election, aiming for greater democratic accountability.

Question 7. The best method of electing the judges is:
(a) Election by the people
(b) Election by the legislature
(c) Appointment by the executive
(d) Appointment by the political parties
Answer: (c) Appointment by the executive
In simple words: Many believe that judges should be appointed by the executive, as this allows for careful selection based on qualifications rather than popularity or politics.

🎯 Exam Tip: Appointment by the executive, often with checks and balances like legislative approval or judicial consultation, is widely considered the most effective method to ensure qualified and impartial judges.

Question 8. The main function of judiciary is:
(a) To provide justice
(b) Protection of the constitution
(c) To provide consultation
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: The judiciary's primary role includes giving fair judgments, safeguarding the constitution, and offering legal advice when needed.

🎯 Exam Tip: The judiciary serves multiple critical roles beyond just resolving disputes, including upholding constitutional principles and providing legal guidance to other government branches.

Question 9. In India, the credit of beginning "judicial activism” goes to:
(a) P.N Bhagwati
(b) P.B. Sawant
(c) H.R.Khanna
(d) All of the options
Answer: (a) P.N Bhagwati
In simple words: Justice P.N. Bhagwati is often credited with starting the concept of judicial activism in India, which allowed courts to act proactively to protect public rights.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing judicial activism in India, remembering Justice P.N. Bhagwati's name is crucial, as he played a pioneering role in its development.

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 11 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Parliament of which country is called the Mother of all the Parliaments?
Answer: Great Britain is known as the Mother of all Parliaments. Its parliamentary system has inspired many other countries. This historical recognition highlights its long-standing influence on democratic governance worldwide.
In simple words: Great Britain's parliament is called the "Mother of all Parliaments" because many other countries copied its way of making laws.

🎯 Exam Tip: This title refers to Great Britain's historical role in developing and popularizing the parliamentary system of governance.