RBSE Solutions Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Power, Authority and Legitimacy

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Text Book Questions

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Multiple Choice Questions

 

Question 1. The author of the book 'Who gets what, when, how' is
(a) Cadin
(b) Loswell
(c) Mac-Iver
(d) Laski
Answer: (b) Loswell
In simple words: Harold Lasswell wrote a famous book titled 'Politics: Who Gets What, When, How'. This book talks about how power and resources are distributed in society.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering questions about famous books and authors, it's helpful to remember key works in political science.

 

Question 2. "Power is the ability to influence other's behavior according to our aims." Whose statement is this?
(a) Organski
Answer: (a) Organski
In simple words: Organski said that power means being able to make others act in a way that helps you reach your own goals. It is about guiding what others do.

🎯 Exam Tip: Political science often involves definitions from various thinkers. Knowing the core idea behind each statement helps in recalling the author.

 

Question 3. "Authority is the right to give orders and the power to enact obedience". Whose statement is this?
(a) Plato
(b) Moska
(c) Henri Fayol
(d) Macauley
Answer: (c) Henri Fayol
In simple words: Henri Fayol believed that authority is having the right to command people and making sure they follow those commands. It is about official power.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between power and authority. Authority implies legitimate right, while power is the ability to influence.

 

Question 4. Which of the following is not a form of authority?
(a) Traditional authority
(b) Charismatic authority
(c) Legal and rational authority
(d) Military authority
Answer: (d) Military authority
In simple words: While military leaders have power, "military authority" is not one of Max Weber's classic forms of legitimate authority (traditional, charismatic, or legal-rational). The military often operates under legal-rational authority.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember Max Weber's three main types of authority. These are fundamental to understanding political systems.

 

Question 5. The meaning of the Latin word 'Legitimus' is :
(a) Lawful
(b) Harmful
(c) Authority
(d) Powerful
Answer: (a) Lawful
In simple words: The Latin word "Legitimus" means something that is legal or rightful. This helps us understand that legitimacy is about what is considered lawful and acceptable.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the origin of political terms helps in grasping their full meaning. Legitimacy implies something is accepted as right and proper.

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Very Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Mention the name of the book of Thomas Hobbes?
Answer: Catlin.
In simple words: Thomas Hobbes is known for his book "Leviathan". This book talks about the structure of society and legitimate government.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always be precise when stating names of books and authors. Double-check spellings for accuracy.

 

Question 3. Write any two forms of power.
Answer:
1. Political Power
2. Economic Power
In simple words: Power can be seen in different ways, like how governments make rules (political power) or how money and resources give control (economic power). These are two common types.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for "any two," choose distinct and clear examples. Other forms include ideological or social power.

 

Question 4. Mention two popular basis of acceptance or obedience of power.
Answer: These are:
1. Belief, and
2. Uniformity
In simple words: People follow power because they believe in it, or because everyone else is also following, creating a sense of uniformity. Trust and common agreement are important.

🎯 Exam Tip: Bases of obedience often relate to legitimacy and social norms. Understanding these helps explain why people accept authority.

 

Question 5. What can be the two means to get legitimacy?
Answer: These are:
1. Voting, and
2. Public opinion
In simple words: Legitimacy, which makes power rightful, can come from people voting for their leaders or through general public agreement and support. These methods show that people accept the rule.

🎯 Exam Tip: Legitimacy in modern democracies is often tied to electoral processes and the consent of the governed.

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. What do you mean by ideological power?
Answer: Ideological Power:
When a large number of people believe strongly in a particular set of ideas, such as socialism, communism, or liberalism, this belief gives rise to ideological power. This means that a shared way of thinking can make people act in certain ways and accept specific leadership. Ideological power often shapes political movements and public policy.
In simple words: Ideological power happens when many people believe in the same ideas, like socialism or liberalism. This shared belief gives influence and control.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ideological power is different from direct physical power; it influences thoughts and beliefs, leading to willing obedience.

 

Question 2. What is the feminist theory with reference to power?
Answer: Feminist Theory:
Feminist theory, when looking at power, states that the way power is divided in society is based on gender. It suggests that men hold most of the power and often use it to dominate women. Because of this, women in Europe started movements to end male dominance. However, Indian tradition views women differently, often regarding them as goddesses and mothers, which implies respect. This shows a contrast in how women's roles are seen in different cultures.
In simple words: Feminist theory says that power in society is mostly held by men who use it over women. This led to women's movements in Europe to fight male control, but Indian culture often respects women highly.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing theories, clearly state their main argument and provide contrasting examples if applicable, like the cultural differences in this case.

 

Question 3. Explain public welfare authority.
Answer: Public Welfare Authority:
Public welfare authority arises when political power is used with the aim of helping the public. It is a key reason why people accept authority. We often follow laws not just because we fear punishment, but because we believe they are for our own good. For example, paying taxes and following traffic rules are things we do willingly because they benefit everyone. This whole system of authority focused on common good is called public welfare authority.
In simple words: Public welfare authority means power is used to help people. We follow laws because we see them as good for us, like traffic rules, not just because we fear punishment.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize that public welfare authority relies on voluntary acceptance by citizens who perceive the benefits of obedience.

 

Question 4. How many forms of authority' are there according to Max Weber.
Answer: Forms of Authority:
According to the famous political scholar Max Weber, authority has three main forms:
• Traditional Authority: This type of authority is based on old traditions or historical customs. For instance, kings or rulers often inherit their power through generations based on this kind of authority.
• Charismatic Authority: This authority comes from the special personality, unique qualities, or 'miracles' attributed to a person. Leaders like Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, Atal Behari Vajpayee, and Narendra Modi are examples of people who have wielded charismatic authority.
• Legal-Rational Authority: This authority is based on a specific post or position. A person who achieves a legal position, and is in power by law, uses this authority. For example, a Prime Minister or a Collector derives their authority from the legal framework of the state.
In simple words: Max Weber said there are three kinds of authority: traditional (from old customs, like kings), charismatic (from a leader's special personality), and legal-rational (from a job or law, like a Prime Minister). Each type explains why people follow leaders.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly define each of Max Weber's three types of authority and provide a relevant example for each to show your understanding.

 

Question 1. Write an essay on the concept of power.
Answer: Concept of Power:
Power is a central idea in politics and is very important in political science. In ancient times, the military or the strength of soldiers was considered crucial, but today, political power is supreme. Ancient Indian political thinkers like Manu and Kautilya highlighted the importance of punishment as a key part of rule. European philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle also recognized the role of power in their writings.
Many important political thinkers like Machiavelli, Hobbes, Catlin, and Mac-Iver have openly discussed the significance of power. Machiavelli is often seen as the first to think about 'powerism'. Charles Merriam explored different aspects of power in modern political science.
Catlin described political science as the "science of power." He wrote that politics is a field where people constantly struggle to gain power. Lasswell viewed power as a key part of politics, defining political activity as the "shaping, sharing, and exercise of power." Mac-Iver, in his book "The Web of Government," said that power is "the capacity to produce intended effects." Organski stated that "power is the ability to influence others' behaviour according to our aim." Rober Biersted saw power as "the ability to employ force." Edward Shils defined power as "the ability to fulfill own purposes," and Karl J. Fredrick called it "a kind of human relation."
These definitions show that power is a vital concept in politics. Those who possess power can influence others' actions, work, and thoughts to serve their own interests. Modern thinkers see power as the ability to achieve tasks. When someone performs an action for themselves or others, they are essentially using some form of power.
In simple words: Power is a very important idea in politics. Many thinkers, from ancient times to today, have talked about how power lets people control others, make them follow rules, and achieve goals. It is the main way things get done in society, whether through force, influence, or leadership.

🎯 Exam Tip: When writing an essay, introduce the concept, discuss its historical evolution, cite key thinkers with their definitions, and then conclude with a summary of its importance.

 

Question 2. What is authority? Mention its different forms. Explain why do we obey it?
Answer: Meaning of Authority:
Authority is generally defined as the legitimate right to exercise power. While power is the ability to influence, authority is the right to give orders and expect obedience. Different scholars have defined authority in various ways:
According to Bierstedt: "Authority is an institutionalized right to exercise power."
According to Henri Fayol: "Authority is the right to give orders and the power to obey them."
According to Peterson: "Authority is the right to give order and to order to obey them."

Different Forms of Authority:
As discussed by Max Weber, there are three main types of authority:
• Traditional Authority: This authority is based on long-standing customs and historical traditions. For example, the eldest person in a family often has traditional authority.
• Charismatic Authority: This type comes from the exceptional personality, special qualities, or perceived 'magic' of a leader. Examples include figures like Indira Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Narendra Modi.
• Legal and Rational Authority: This authority is based on the position or office a person holds within a legal framework. A person who legally achieves a post, like a Prime Minister or a Collector, exercises this type of authority.

Why do we obey Authority:
We obey authority for several reasons:
• Belief: A key reason is the trust that people have in their leaders. The stronger this faith, the easier it is for rulers to issue commands without needing to use force. This trust makes the system stable and effective.
• Uniformity: When people share similar thoughts and ideals with their leaders, it also becomes a strong reason for obeying authority. People tend to follow those whose ideologies align with their own.
• Public Welfare: Obedience also stems from the belief that laws and orders are for the common good. We follow rules like traffic laws, not just from fear of punishment, but because we understand they promote public interest and our own welfare.
In simple words: Authority is the right to give orders. It comes in three forms: traditional (from old customs), charismatic (from a leader's special traits), and legal-rational (from a job or law). We obey authority because we trust our leaders, share similar ideas with them, or believe that their rules help everyone.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between the definitions, forms, and reasons for obedience. Use specific examples for each type of authority to illustrate your points effectively.

 

Question 1. Examine the inner-relation of power, authority and legitimacy.
Answer: Inter-relation of Power, Authority and Legitimacy:
Power, authority, and legitimacy are all important concepts in political science and are closely connected. When power gains legitimacy, it transforms into authority. Essentially, legitimate power is what we call authority. This relationship can be understood through the following points:

(i) Role in Formation of State-Governance:
Power provides the basic foundation for a state's governance. Authority gives this power a legal basis, while legitimacy adds a moral foundation. Each element has its own role, but when they combine, they create a perfect and effective system of governance for a state.

(ii) Role in Management of State-Governance:
In state management, authority acts as the primary operator, giving a legitimate identity to the governance. Power and legitimacy serve as both the means and objectives. Authority uses power as a tool to achieve its goals, which are then justified by legitimacy. Therefore, in a government, legitimacy is the ultimate objective.

(iii) In View of Human Nature:
Power, authority, and legitimacy are linked to different human traits. Humans are naturally drawn to power, which leads to struggles among individuals and institutions. This struggle is controlled by the social nature of humans, with authority being the developed form of this social tendency. Authority transforms power into a tool for organizing society and maintaining proper control. However, another human tendency seeks a system that is not just social but also fair and just. This desire appears in the form of legitimacy.

Thus, power and legitimacy are not directly related but are connected through authority. Legitimacy makes both power and authority fair and just. When authority and legitimacy are closely aligned, less power is needed. But if authority and legitimacy are not well-combined, then more power is needed. Without legitimacy, both power and authority become immoral.
In simple words: Power is the ability to influence. When this power is seen as right and proper (legitimate), it becomes authority. All three are linked: power starts it, authority makes it legal, and legitimacy makes it morally accepted. A government works best when power is legitimate and used for good.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly define each term—power, authority, and legitimacy—and then explain their interconnectedness, showing how one transforms into or reinforces the other.

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Other Important Questions

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Multiple Choice Questions

 

Question 1. Who among the following wrote the book “Leviathan”?
(a) Thomas Hobbes
(b) Henry Taylor
(c) Charles Merriam
(d) Loswell
Answer: (a) Thomas Hobbes
In simple words: The book "Leviathan" was written by Thomas Hobbes. It is a very important work in political philosophy, discussing government and society.

🎯 Exam Tip: Familiarize yourself with classic texts and their authors, especially in political philosophy, as these are frequently asked.

 

Question 2. Who wrote the book 'The Web of Government'?
(a) Mac Iver
(b) Organski
(c) Kaplan
(d) Loswell
Answer: (a) Mac Iver
In simple words: Robert M. MacIver wrote the book "The Web of Government". This book explores different aspects of how governments function and connect.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific book titles and authors often appear in MCQs. Creating flashcards can help in memorizing them.

 

Question 3. What is the prime symptom of Democracy?
(a) Power
(b) Authority
(c) Legitimacy
(d) none of these
Answer: (c) Legitimacy
In simple words: The most important sign of a democracy is its legitimacy. This means that the people accept and believe that their government's power is right and lawful.

🎯 Exam Tip: In a democracy, legitimacy comes from the consent of the people, usually through elections, making it a defining characteristic.

 

Question 4. Which type of authority do the senior most people of the house get in the family?
(a) Traditional authority
Answer: (a) Traditional authority
In simple words: The oldest members in a family often get their authority from long-standing customs and traditions. This is known as traditional authority, where age and custom grant respect and influence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Traditional authority is often found in families, religious institutions, and monarchies, based on inherited or customary rights.

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Very Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Write the names of ancient Indian scholars who put light on the different elements of power.
Answer: Manu, Kautilya, Shukra.
In simple words: Ancient Indian thinkers like Manu, Kautilya, and Shukra wrote about different parts of power. They explained how rulers should use power.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remembering key figures from both Western and Indian political thought is important for a comprehensive understanding of concepts.

 

Question 2. Who is considered the first thinker of power in Europe?
Answer: Mackiyavalli
In simple words: Niccolò Machiavelli is seen as the first European thinker to focus purely on power and how rulers gain and keep it. His ideas were very practical.

🎯 Exam Tip: Machiavelli's "The Prince" is a foundational text in political realism, emphasizing the pragmatic acquisition and use of power.

 

Question 3. Who is considered the propagator of modern political science?
Answer: Charles Merriam
In simple words: Charles Merriam is known for promoting modern political science. He helped shift the focus to studying political behavior and real-world politics.

🎯 Exam Tip: Modern political science often emphasizes empirical observation and scientific methods, a shift influenced by scholars like Merriam.

 

Question 4. Who said, "Political science is the science of power."
Answer: Catlin
In simple words: George Catlin believed that political science is all about understanding power. He saw it as the main subject of study in politics.

🎯 Exam Tip: Attributing specific quotes to their authors demonstrates a deep understanding of political theories.

 

Question 5. Define the power in words of Mac-Iver.
Answer: According to Mac-Iver, “Power is the capacity in any relation by which a task is performed or an order is obeyed by others.”
In simple words: Mac-Iver said that power is the ability to make things happen or to get others to follow commands. It's about being able to influence actions.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining a concept using a scholar's words, ensure the quote is exact and the attribution is correct.

 

Question 6. Write any two features of power.
Answer: These two:
1. Power is always invisible and abstract while force is visible and has some form.
2. Power is psychological capacity while force is a physical capacity.
In simple words: Power is often hidden and about influence, while force is direct physical action. Power works on the mind, but force uses physical strength.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguishing between power and force is crucial. Power can exist without overt force, relying on legitimacy or psychological influence.

 

Question 7. Write different forms of power.
Answer: There are three forms of power.
1. Political power
2. Economic power
3. Ideological power
In simple words: Power can be seen in three main ways: political power (like government), economic power (like wealth), and ideological power (like shared beliefs). These shape society.

🎯 Exam Tip: Listing different forms of power helps illustrate its pervasive nature across various societal spheres.

 

Question 8. What do you understand by political power?
Answer: Political power means allotment of important, valuable resources of society like post, prestige, tax, reward, punishment, etc. among different groups of society.
In simple words: Political power is about how important things in society, like jobs, respect, money, and rules, are given out to different groups. It shapes who gets what.

🎯 Exam Tip: Political power is not just about governing; it's also about the distribution of resources and benefits within a society.

 

Question 9. What are different theories related to structure of power?
Answer: There are four theories:
1. Theory of class dominance
2. Special class theory
3. Feminist theory
4. Pluralistic theory
In simple words: There are four main ideas about how power is set up in society: class dominance, special groups, feminist views, and pluralism. Each explains who has power differently.

🎯 Exam Tip: Naming the theories is the first step; be prepared to briefly explain each if asked for more detail.

 

Question 10. What is pluralistic theory of structure of power?
Answer: According to pluralistic theory, the complete power of society is not in the hands of one class but it is distributed among many groups.
In simple words: Pluralistic theory says that power in society is shared among many different groups, not just one. It means many different groups have a say.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pluralism suggests that competition among various groups (e.g., labor unions, corporations, environmental groups) prevents any single group from dominating entirely.

 

Question 11. What is Indian concept of power?
Answer: According to Henry Fayol, “Authority is the right to give order and power to enact obedience.”
In simple words: The Indian idea of power focuses on responsibility. It means power is used for everyone's good and to help weaker sections of society join the mainstream.

🎯 Exam Tip: Contrast the Indian concept of power (responsibility, public welfare) with Western concepts (individual rights, competition) to show a broader understanding.

 

Question 13. Write different forms of authority according to Max Weber.
Answer: According to Max Weber, there are three forms of authority.
1. Traditional Authority,
2. Charismatic Authority,
3. Legal or Rational Authority.
In simple words: Max Weber said authority comes in three kinds: traditional (from old ways), charismatic (from a leader's special appeal), and legal-rational (from rules and laws).

🎯 Exam Tip: This question directly asks for Weber's classification, so make sure to list all three accurately.

 

Question 14. In which kind of political system is legitimacy the most important?
Answer: In democracy.
In simple words: Legitimacy, which means power is accepted as right, is most important in a democracy. People need to believe in their government for it to work.

🎯 Exam Tip: Legitimacy is foundational for democracies because it relies on the consent of the governed, unlike authoritarian regimes that may rely more on force.

 

Question 15. What are the main bases due to which an authority is obeyed?
Answer: Faith, uniformity, public interest and pressure are main bases due to which an authority is obeyed.
In simple words: People obey authority because they trust it, because everyone else does (uniformity), because it helps the public, or sometimes due to pressure.

🎯 Exam Tip: The reasons for obedience reflect a mix of moral, social, and practical considerations, crucial for political stability.

 

Question 16. What are the main means to get legitimacy?
Answer: Voting, public opinion, means of communication, nationalism etc. are the main means to get legitimacy.
In simple words: Legitimacy, which makes power acceptable, comes from things like fair elections, what the public thinks, how leaders communicate, and a sense of shared national identity.

🎯 Exam Tip: These means of gaining legitimacy are vital for modern states to ensure their rule is perceived as just and rightful by their citizens.

 

Question 17. Write any two factors that affect legitimacy.
Answer: Following are the two factors that affect legitimacy :
Power becomes more effective when it joins with legitimacy and becomes authority.
In simple words: Legitimacy is strengthened when power is combined with public acceptance, turning it into authority. Also, when a political system adjusts to new situations, it helps maintain its legitimacy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Factors affecting legitimacy can be both internal (e.g., public trust, political system's performance) and external (e.g., international recognition, global trends).

 

Question 19. What is the basic evidence of legitimacy in political system?
Answer: Public participation is the basic evidence of legitimacy in political system.
In simple words: The main proof that a political system is legitimate is when its people take part in it. This shows they accept the system.

🎯 Exam Tip: Active public participation, through voting, civic engagement, or civil society, is a strong indicator of a legitimate and healthy political system.

 

Question 20. What are the main limits of authority?
Answer: There are some limits of authority which prevent its misuse. These are constitutional laws, culture, traditions and moral concepts. The authority works under these limits.
In simple words: Authority has limits, like constitutional laws, cultural norms, traditions, and moral beliefs, to stop it from being used wrongly. It must always act within these boundaries.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the limits of authority is as important as understanding its scope, as these checks and balances protect citizens from tyranny.

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Short Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. In Western ideology, how did gradual development of concept of power take place?
Answer: Power is central to political science, making its concept highly important. Among Western thinkers, Machiavelli is recognized as the first to extensively write about power. Following him, Thomas Hobbes, in his book 'Leviathan,' emphasized power's role in the state and politics. Charles Merriam then analyzed many facets of power in modern political science. Later, thinkers like Catlin, Lasswell, and Kaplan further clarified the concept. Catlin defined political science as the science of power, seeing politics as a field of competition where people strive to gain power. This intellectual journey highlights the evolving understanding of power's role in Western thought.
In simple words: In Western thought, the idea of power grew over time. Thinkers like Machiavelli, Hobbes, and Merriam helped explain how power works, seeing it as the main point of politics and a constant struggle between people.

🎯 Exam Tip: When tracing the development of a concept, mention key thinkers in chronological order and highlight their main contributions to show progression.

 

Question 2. What are similarities and dissimilarities in power and influence?
Answer: The following are similarities and dissimilarities in power and influence:

Similarities:
Both power and influence aim to affect the behavior of others. They both involve one party trying to direct the actions or thoughts of another. Both are crucial in social and political interactions, shaping outcomes and relationships. For example, a leader uses both power and influence to guide their group.

Dissimilarities:
1. Power is often seen as oppressive and backed by physical force, while influence is psychological. Power might force someone, but influence persuades them.
2. Using power can go against a person's wishes, but influence is relative and relies on the affected person's consent to be successful. Influence is more about getting someone to willingly agree.
3. Power can be undemocratic, whereas influence is generally a democratic factor. Power might be imposed, while influence is more freely given or accepted.
4. To keep power, influence is often needed. However, influence does not need power to maintain itself. Influence can stand alone, but sustained power often requires some form of acceptance or influence.
In simple words: Both power and influence make people do things. But power can be forceful and against someone's will, while influence is softer, psychological, and usually needs consent. Power needs influence to last, but influence doesn't always need power.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly define each term before comparing them. Use specific examples to illustrate the differences, such as a dictator (power) versus a respected mentor (influence).

 

Question 3. What is political power?
Answer: Political power involves the distribution of important societal resources such as posts, prestige, taxes, rewards, and punishments among various groups. It is typically exercised by formal government bodies like the legislature, executive, and judiciary. Additionally, informal groups such as pressure groups, political parties, and influential individuals also use their ability to affect public policies. These informal groups also play a key role in shaping how political power is used.
In simple words: Political power is about how governments and other groups share out important things in society like jobs, respect, and laws. It is used by official parts of government and by groups that influence public decisions.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining political power, ensure you cover both the formal institutions of government and the informal actors that shape policy.

 

Question 4. What is economic power?
Answer: Economic power refers to the control over means of production and wealth in society. This power significantly impacts political power. It is often believed that those who are financially strong also hold political power. However, there are different views, such as liberalism and Marxism, regarding the link between economic and political power. Liberalism suggests that political power is shaped by many interdependent elements, not solely by economic power. In contrast, Marxism argues that all power originates from economic power, and economic power ultimately determines political power in society.
In simple words: Economic power means having control over money and how things are made. It can change political power, but thinkers like liberals and Marxists have different ideas about how much. Liberals say many things shape political power, while Marxists believe money is the main decider.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the core idea of economic power and then contrast the liberal and Marxist perspectives to show a nuanced understanding of its relationship with political power.

 

Question 5. What is the principle of class dominance?
Answer: The principle of class dominance, which comes from Marxist thought, is based on the idea that society is divided into two opposing classes due to economic factors. These are the economically powerful class and the financially poor class. From the beginning of human civilization, there has been a continuous struggle between these two classes. This theory suggests that every aspect of society is linked to economic gain. Even family relationships, like parents caring for children and children looking after parents, are viewed from an economic perspective. This highlights how economic divisions fundamentally shape social structures and power dynamics.
In simple words: The idea of class dominance, from Marxism, says that society is split into rich and poor groups because of money. These two groups are always fighting, and everything in society, even family life, is seen through this idea of economic gain.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining class dominance, clearly link it to economic divisions and the inherent conflict between the two classes, as this is central to Marxist theory.

 

Question 6. What is specific class theory?
Answer: According to specific class theory, society is divided into two groups based on power: the powerful specific class and the general class over which power is used. This theory states that this class division is not only based on economic status but also on qualities like intelligence, management skills, and leadership. In every type of government, a small powerful class emerges, using its power over the common people. This class includes politicians, industrialists, lawyers, professors, and doctors, who together form a consistently powerful group, regardless of which political party is in government.
In simple words: Specific class theory says society is split into powerful people and ordinary people. This split is not just about money, but also about skills and intelligence. A small group of powerful individuals, like politicians and doctors, always has control, no matter who is in charge of the government.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate specific class theory from economic class dominance by highlighting that power here is based on a broader range of capacities and not just wealth.

 

Question 7. Define the concept of Feminist theory.
Answer: Feminist theory states that power in society is divided based on gender. It believes that men hold all societal power and use it to control women. Because of this, women's movements started in Europe to end male domination. However, Indian tradition views women differently; they are often seen as goddesses and mothers, receiving care and respect. In Indian philosophy, women are given proper positions, and it is believed that where women are worshipped, there is a divine presence. After India gained independence, women were given the right to vote and contest elections. Therefore, the Indian concept does not demand women's freedom but supports their independence and dignity.
In simple words: Feminist theory says power in society is based on gender, with men having most of it and using it over women. This led to movements in Europe. But in India, women are highly respected, seen as goddesses, and have rights like voting, supporting their independence instead of needing 'freedom'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly articulate the core tenet of feminist theory regarding gender and power, and use the contrast between Western and Indian perspectives to add depth.

 

Question 8. Define pluralistic theory.
Answer: One of the main ideas about how power is divided is the pluralistic theory, which differs from other theories. While class dominance, specific class, and feminist theories suggest power is divided into two groups (powerful and powerless), pluralistic theory claims that all power in society is distributed among many groups, not just in the hands of one class. In a liberal democratic system, different groups constantly negotiate to maintain peace, preventing exploitation. The Indian concept of power is based on responsibility, not exploitation or class struggle. It aims to use power for public welfare and help the powerless join the mainstream of society.
In simple words: Pluralistic theory believes that power in society is shared among many different groups, not just one. In democracies, these groups bargain to keep peace. The Indian view is similar, focusing on using power responsibly for everyone's good, especially to help weaker people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize that pluralism is about the decentralization and dispersion of power among competing groups, which acts as a check on any single dominant force.

 

Question 9. What is 'legitimacy'?
Answer: The word 'legitimacy' comes from the Latin word 'Legitimus', which means something is lawful or right. In political science, legitimacy is more than just being lawful; it includes values and beliefs that make a state or government logical and accepted. Ancient thinkers like Plato and Aristotle believed a political system's legitimacy came from justice and law. In India, ancient texts like Manusmriti and Kautilya's Arthashastra also spoke about the king's rights and duties, which gave his rule legitimacy. Later, the idea of divine right was used, but modern thinking focuses on people's agreement. Today, in a democracy, things like voting, public opinion, communication, and nationalism are ways for a government to gain and show its legitimacy. This public acceptance helps a government rule smoothly.
In simple words: Legitimacy is when people believe their government is right and fair, not just legal. It is about trust and acceptance from the public, which is very important for a government to stay strong.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining complex terms like 'legitimacy', always include its origin (Latin word), key components (lawful, logical, accepted), historical views, and modern-day examples to show a complete understanding.

 

Question 10. Write short notes on any two bases of obeying the authority.
Answer: People obey authority for several reasons, and two important bases are:

• Belief: This is the most crucial reason why people follow orders from authority. Subordinates obey because they trust their leaders. The stronger this trust, the easier it is for authority to be obeyed without needing to use force. This shows that faith in leadership is key to effective governance.
• Uniformity: When people and the authority have similar thoughts and ideals, it becomes easier to obey. People generally prefer to follow suggestions and orders from those with whom they share common beliefs or ways of thinking. This alignment of ideas helps in smooth functioning.

Both belief and uniformity help make authority stronger and more widely accepted by the public.
In simple words: People obey leaders because they believe in them and because they share similar ideas. Trust and common understanding make it easier to follow rules without force.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on explaining how these bases reduce the need for force, highlighting the psychological and social aspects of obedience rather than just mentioning the reasons.

 

Question 11. Differentiate between traditional and charismatic authorities.
Answer: Here are the main differences between traditional and charismatic authorities:

Traditional authority comes from old customs and history, while charismatic authority comes from the special qualities of a person. These differences shape how power is accepted and exercised.
In simple words: Traditional authority is about following old customs or family lines. Charismatic authority is about following a leader because they have a very strong and attractive personality.

🎯 Exam Tip: When comparing types of authority, provide clear examples for each to illustrate how they differ in origin and mechanism of obedience.

 

Question 12. Define legitimacy.
Answer: The English word 'Legitimacy' comes from the Latin word 'Legitimus', which means 'lawful'. However, in political science, legitimacy is a broader concept than just being lawful. It refers to the values and beliefs that make a state or political system seem right and proper to its people. Different scholars define legitimacy in various ways. For instance, Karl J. Fredrick said that legitimacy is the quality of laws and rulers that promotes their authority. S.M. Lipset described it as the ability of a system to create or keep the public's belief that the current political system is the best for them. Essentially, legitimacy is about public consent given to a political system. Without this consent, a political system cannot last long because people will not accept its rules. It is the moral right to rule, beyond just legal power.
In simple words: Legitimacy is when people agree that their government has the right to rule. It means the government is seen as fair and proper, not just powerful.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always mention the Latin origin and differentiate 'lawful' from 'legitimate' to show depth. Including definitions from political thinkers adds value to your answer.

 

RBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 2 Long Answer Type Questions

 

Question 1. Explain the difference between power and force, and power and impression.
Answer: Understanding the nuances between power, force, and impression is crucial in political science. While often used interchangeably, these terms have distinct characteristics. Power involves the ability to achieve goals, but force is a specific method of applying it. Impression relates to the psychological sway one holds over others.

Here are the key differences between Power and Force:
1. Power is often hidden and abstract, meaning you can't always see it directly. Force, however, is visible and has a clear form, like physical strength.
2. Power is a psychological ability; it works on people's minds. Force is a physical ability; it involves using bodily strength.
3. Force is much more about making people do things against their will than power is. Force restricts opponents directly.
4. Power is a broader idea than force. While power can include force as a tool, it also involves other methods. Power sets a goal and then uses various means, including force, to reach that goal. This means force is just one tool power uses.

Here are the key differences between Power and Impression:
Power and impression are closely linked, but they are not the same. Impression can create power, and power often leaves an impression. Despite their closeness, they differ in several ways:
1. Power uses compulsion; it tries to make people obey. Impression, however, has no compulsion; people choose to be influenced.
2. Power is more physical in its effect, while impression is a moral or emotional element.
3. You can see how power is used and what it achieves, but impression is a smaller, more subtle concept. Its results are felt mostly in one's mind.
4. The reach of power is limited to specific areas or groups. But impression is very wide and unlimited, spreading through thoughts and ideas.
5. A person using power doesn't need the consent of those they control. In contrast, an impressive person gains influence with the consent of others. This makes impression more democratic, while power is not.
6. Power often creates resistance and unhappiness in those it controls. Impression, however, typically does not lead to such negative feelings.
In simple words: Power is the ability to do things, and force is a direct physical way to make it happen. Impression is a softer influence that makes people want to agree. Power can be invisible, but force is seen. Power makes people follow rules, while impression makes them want to follow.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly separate your points into distinct categories for 'Power vs. Force' and 'Power vs. Impression'. Use direct comparisons in each point to highlight the contrasting aspects effectively.

 

Question 2. Describe different theories of structure of power.
Answer: Traditionally, power is seen as the ability of one person or group to control another. Society has many such groups that maintain control through power. There are four main theories that explain how power is structured in society:

• Economically Powerful Class & Economically Weak Class: This theory suggests that society is split into two groups based on wealth: the powerful rich and the powerless poor. From the very beginning of human history, there has been a continuous struggle between these two classes. This theory believes that everything in society, even personal relationships, is connected to economic gain.
• Special Class Theory: This theory divides society into two sections based on power: a powerful "special class" and a general class over which power is used. This division isn't just about money; it also includes skills, intelligence, management ability, and leadership. In every type of government, a small group of people emerges who are powerful and use their power over everyone else. Examples include politicians, business leaders, lawyers, professors, and doctors, who together form a class that always holds power, no matter which political party is in charge.
• Feminist Theory: This theory argues that the way power is divided in society is based on gender. It states that most of society's power is held by men, and they use it over women. This led to women's movements in Europe seeking to end male dominance. However, Indian tradition views women differently, seeing them as goddesses and mothers who are respected. Historically, Indian philosophy supported women's pride and position, and after independence, women were given the right to vote and participate in elections.
• Pluralistic Theory: This theory is different from the others. It states that power in society is not held by one special class but is spread among many different groups. In liberal democracies, these groups constantly bargain with each other to maintain peace, which prevents exploitation. The Indian idea of power, according to this theory, is based on responsibility and public welfare, aiming to empower the powerless and bring them into the mainstream.

These theories offer different ways to understand who holds power and how it is used in society, showing that power is a complex idea with many angles.
In simple words: There are four main ideas about who has power in society. Some say it's about rich versus poor, others say it's a special group of smart people, some believe men hold all the power over women, and finally, the pluralistic theory says power is shared among many different groups.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing theories, always name the theory and then briefly explain its core idea and how it defines the distribution of power, using simple examples if possible.

 

Question 9. What is 'legitimacy'?
Answer: The word 'legitimacy' comes from the Latin word 'Legitimus', which means something is lawful or right. In political science, legitimacy is more than just being lawful; it includes values and beliefs that make a state or government logical and accepted. Ancient thinkers like Plato and Aristotle believed a political system's legitimacy came from justice and law. In India, ancient texts like Manusmriti and Kautilya's Arthashastra also spoke about the king's rights and duties, which gave his rule legitimacy. Later, the idea of divine right was used, but modern thinking focuses on people's agreement. Today, in a democracy, things like voting, public opinion, communication, and nationalism are ways for a government to gain and show its legitimacy. This public acceptance helps a government rule smoothly.
In simple words: Legitimacy is when people believe their government is right and fair, not just legal. It is about trust and acceptance from the public, which is very important for a government to stay strong.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining complex terms like 'legitimacy', always include its origin (Latin word), key components (lawful, logical, accepted), historical views, and modern-day examples to show a complete understanding.

 

Question 10. Write short notes on any two bases of obeying the authority.
Answer: People obey authority for several reasons, and two important bases are:

• Belief: This is the most crucial reason why people follow orders from authority. Subordinates obey because they trust their leaders. The stronger this trust, the easier it is for authority to be obeyed without needing to use force. This shows that faith in leadership is key to effective governance.
• Uniformity: When people and the authority have similar thoughts and ideals, it becomes easier to obey. People generally prefer to follow suggestions and orders from those with whom they share common beliefs or ways of thinking. This alignment of ideas helps in smooth functioning.

Both belief and uniformity help make authority stronger and more widely accepted by the public.
In simple words: People obey leaders because they believe in them and because they share similar ideas. Trust and common understanding make it easier to follow rules without force.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on explaining how these bases reduce the need for force, highlighting the psychological and social aspects of obedience rather than just mentioning the reasons.

 

Question 11. Differentiate between traditional and charismatic authorities.
Answer: Here are the main differences between traditional and charismatic authorities:

Traditional authority comes from old customs and history, while charismatic authority comes from the special qualities of a person. These differences shape how power is accepted and exercised.
In simple words: Traditional authority is about following old customs or family lines. Charismatic authority is about following a leader because they have a very strong and attractive personality.

🎯 Exam Tip: When comparing types of authority, provide clear examples for each to illustrate how they differ in origin and mechanism of obedience.

 

Question 12. Define legitimacy.
Answer: The English word 'Legitimacy' comes from the Latin word 'Legitimus', which means 'lawful'. However, in political science, legitimacy is a broader concept than just being lawful. It refers to the values and beliefs that make a state or political system seem right and proper to its people. Different scholars define legitimacy in various ways. For instance, Karl J. Fredrick said that legitimacy is the quality of laws and rulers that promotes their authority. S.M. Lipset described it as the ability of a system to create or keep the public's belief that the current political system is the best for them. Essentially, legitimacy is about public consent given to a political system. Without this consent, a political system cannot last long because people will not accept its rules. It is the moral right to rule, beyond just legal power.
In simple words: Legitimacy is when people agree that their government has the right to rule. It means the government is seen as fair and proper, not just powerful.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always mention the Latin origin and differentiate 'lawful' from 'legitimate' to show depth. Including definitions from political thinkers adds value to your answer.