Page 1 - Lesson Note - 4

Class – XI

Political Science (Political Theory)

Chapter-1 (Political Theory: An Introduction)

Topic- Why Should We Study Political Theory

Short Notes :

 The major question we used to ask ourselves is why should we

study Political Theory? There are some valid reasons for pursuing

this.
 It is relevant to solving our problems – political theory is closely

related to a number of academic subjects such as history, ethics,

sociology, economics and other areas of study. These subjects

provide theories and data which political theorists use to

construct political theory.
 Knowledge of our rights and duties – A democratic government

implies popular participation in political processes such as

elections. We should know our rights, especially the right to vote.

Our knowledge of political theory tells us that the right to vote is

not only a right but a duty as well. The voters should choose the

best men.

 Political theory liberalises the outlook – By studying political
theory, an individual may think more logically about concepts

such as equality, liberty and justice. Political theory teaches us to

be tolerant of other people’s attitudes or beliefs. Liberty and

Equality are not just abstract concepts, these concepts reflect

ideals that we should try to follow.