Political Science-I Past Papers Analysis

I. Plato

1. Discuss in detail the Plato's concept of Justice. (2022)

2. Critically analyze the salient features of Plato's Republic. Do you think that some of its features are valid, even today? (2018)

3. Critically examine the concept of "Justice" by Plato. (2014)

4. Plato intended to build an institution for scientific study of politic and training of statesman." elaborate. (2012)

5. Platonic and Aristotelian paradigms (2011)

6. Discuss Plato's contribution to the History of political thought. (2009)

7. "Plato intended to build an institution for scientific study of politics and training of statesman" elaborate (2008)

8. Explain Plato's theory of Justice. How he tries to implement it through educational system? (2006)

9. Examine the main similarities and differences in the Political Ideas of Plato and Aristotle. (2004)

10. Plato's Communism was, is and will remain impracticable. Critically examine this statement. (2003)

11. Explain Plato's Theory of Justice. How he tries to implement it through the Education System? (2001)

II. Aristotle

1. Aristotle was a realist and not an idealist. Elaborate with reference to his Theory of the ends and functions of the state. (2024)

2. What is the Aristotelian classification of state? (2021)

3. Give a critical analysis of Aristotle's classification of Governments. (2016)

4. Aristotle was a great but not grateful student of Plato" Comment. (2010)

5. Aristotle was a Realist and not an Idealist- explain write this theory of the Ends and functions of the state. (2007)

6. Show how Aristotle's Organic Theory different from Plato's Idealistic Theory of State. (2000)

III. Machiavelli

1. Is it correct to call Machiavelli a citizen of all states and contemporary of all ages? Substantiate your answer with valid arguments. (2024)

2. Is it correct to say that Machiavelli was an apostle of Power Politics? (2016)

3. "Is it correct to call Machiavelli citizen of all states and contemporary of all ages"? Argue (2010)

4. Machiavelli enunciated the philosophy of Art of government for effective discipline and stability in the satiate. Analyze and discuss the basis of this philosophy in detail? (2006)

5. Machiavelli enunciated the philosophy of art of the government for effective discipline and stability in the state. Analyze and discuss the basis of his philosophy in detail. (2002)

6. Machiavelli's Prince. (2000)

IV. Thomas Hobbes

1. Illustrate Hobbesian concept of limited right of revolution. (2022)

2. What is the concept of State of Nature as given by Thomas Hobbes? Make its comparison with the Social Contract as presented by John Locke and Rousseau. (2018)

3. Compare and contrast the different political philosophies of Hobbes and Locke. How are these philosophies implemented in present day political systems and policy making? (2017)

4. Critically examine the concepts of Hobbes and Locke about 'Social Contract'. (2015)

5. Critically analyze the Social Contract theory of Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau. (2013)

6. Discuss Locke and Hobbes' perspective on the "state of Nature" (2011)

7. "Life in state of nature was nasty, poor, brutish and short." (Hobbes) (2008)

8. Hobbes and Bodin are said to be the proponents of the theory of Absolutism. Do you agree? Give reasons. (2003)

V. John Locke

1. The natural rights of men are right to live, liberty and property" (Locke) (2008)

2. Locke was the father of Modern Liberal Democracy-comment (2007)

3. Examine the nature of the contract expounded by Locke revolving in the establishment of the Civil Society (2004)

4. Right to revolt against the established government by Locke, if the former violates people's trust, is antithetic, in some respects, to the social contract theories of other philosophers. Analyze the statement and explain in detail. (2000)

VI. Rousseau

1. What is the difference of between Rousseau's notion of 'the state of nature' and that of Hobbes and Locke? (2021)

2. Short Note - Rousseau theory of general will (2012)

3. Appreciation and criticism of Rousseau's theory of General Will. (2009)

4. Describe the basic features of Rousseau's political philosophy. (2007)

5. Compare the views of Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau on Social Contract and Sovereignty. (2005)

6. How General will of a Society formulated? Discuss in the light of Rousseau's interpretation, on the conclusions, characteristics and criticism of the Theory of General Will. (2004)

7. Discuss Rousseau's Theory of Social Contract. Do you agree with his rationale? (2026)

VII. Montesquieu

1. Discuss Montesquieu’s Theory of Separation of Powers. Why is he considered Aristotle of the 18th century? (2024)

2. Examine Montesquieu's theory of separation of powers. Why he has been called "Aristotle" of eighteen century? Discuss (2013)

3. Montesquieu with all his faults and irregularities is the father of modern historical research." explain and discuss. (2012)

4. Examine Montesquieu theory of separation of powers. Why has he been called the Aristotle of eighteenth Century? Discuss. (2009)

5. Theory of separation of Power (2006)

6. How Montesquieu classify government? Which form he considers to be the best? (2004)

7. Montesquieu expounded his theory of separation of power to set forth the government organization in order to safeguard the political liberty. Explain. (2002)

8. Examine Montesquieu theory of separation of powers. Narrate those facts on which he has been called the Aristotle of the Eighteenth Century (2002)

VIII. Hegel

1. Examine the view that Hegelian spirit is nothing but evolution of human consciousness to the realization of political maturity for global human co-existence. (2019)

2. It is said that Hegel's dialectical theory was standing on its head but Marx has reserved it? Discuss (2006)

3. It is said that Hegel's dialectic theory was standing on its head but Marx has reserved it. Discuss this statement. (2001)

IX. Jeremy Bentham

1. Utilitarianism remains to be one of the most important ideologies of Western Political Thought. Explain Utilitarianism and write in detail about its application in contemporary times. (2026)

2. Explain Bentham's greatest happiness of the greatest number. (2023)

3. Bantam's theory of Punishment. (2002) (2006)

4. "Nature has placed man under the governance of two sovereign masters, pain and pleasure. It is for them alone to point out, what we ought to do as well as to determine, what we shall do. We owe to them all our ideas; we refer to them all our judgments and all the determinations of life." Bentham. Show how Bentham and J.S Mill promoted pleasure-pain theory and under what nomenclature. Had this theory any historical ROOT as well as EFFECT on the political conditions obtaining in their homeland? (2000)

X. Karl Marx

1. Describe in detail Karl Marx view on class, state and religion. (2022)

2. According to Marx "the mode of production in material life determines the general character of social, political and spiritual process in life". Elucidate. (2017)

3. Equal distribution of wealth" explain this statement in the light of Marx's philosophy. (2015)

4. Short Note-Marx's theory of Class Struggle (2013)

5. Short Note -views of Marx on socialist revolution (2012)

6. Marx's historical materialism is the application of dialectical materialism to explain historical events, processes and developments in society. Elaborate. (2011)

7. Political Philosophy of Karl Marx (2004)

XI. John Stuart Mill

1. State the grounds on which Mill advocated the freedom of individual's conduct. What limitations did he apply to this freedom? (2008)

XII. Imam Ghazali

1. What are Al-Ghazali's pre-requisites for becoming a Khalifa? (2023)

2. Critically appreciate Al-Ghazali theory of Khalafat. (2011)

3. Al-Ghazali was the torch bearer of the Muslim Rationalistic Renaissance. Analyze the statement in view of his status as a Mujaddid (2007)

4. Enlist the quantities of Al-Ghazali's Amir and detail account of his daily routine (2002)

5. Analyze in detail Al-Ghazali's Theory on the origin of the State. Explain its features. (2026)

XIII. Allama Iqbal

1. How it can be made possible in the modern age? (2018)

2. Compare the concept of Millat and Territorial Nationalism by Iqbal. (2014)

3. Discuss the Allam Iqbal's concept of "Khudi" (2013)

4. Write note on Iqbal concept of Millat (2011)

5. Iqbal's views on Ijtihad (2010)

6. Examine the contribution of Allama Iqbal as a Philosopher and as a supporter of Muslim unity. (2007)

7. Dr. Iqbal's concept of Ego (Khudi) (2004)

8. Explain Allama Iqbal's Concept of Nationalism. Do you agree that it developed through a lengthy process of evolution? (2001)

XIV. Al-Mawardi

1. Describe Al-Mawardi's theory of Imamate. (2016)

2. "Al- Mawardi’s brought constitutional theory of Islam in line with political reality of his time." Discuss this with reference to his views on 'Khalafat' and Wizarate'. (2010)

3. The Imamate is established to replace prophecy in the defense of faith and the administration of the world". Elaborate this statement of Al-Mawardi's with reference to his Theory of Imamate. (2004)

XV. Ibn-Khaldun

1. Ibn-e-Khaldun while acknowledging the external factors, emphasizes more on the internal systemic factors as divisive for the decline of state. Elaborate. (2021)

2. Write a detailed note on the concept of Asibah as given by Ibn-e-Khaldun. What is its significance in the progress and decline of nations? (2018)

3. Discuss the upward and downward development of state, rulers and ruled in the socio-political thought of Ibn Khaldun. (2017)

4. Discuss in detail Ibne Khaldun's concept of 'Asabiyyah'. (2015)

5. Asabiyyah (2014)

6. Short Note - Ibne Khaldun's concept of Asabiyyah (2013)

7. Ibn-e-Khaldun perhaps was the first philosopher to realize the relevant importance of economics to politics. Discuss. (2012)

8. How far is it true to say that Ibn-e-Khaldun perhaps was the first philosopher to realize the relevant importance of economics to politics? Argue. (2008)

9. Discuss the place of Ibn-e-Khaldun in the history of Political Philosophy? (2006)

10. "Ibn-e-Khaledun is called the Father of Political Economy". Discuss his views on Political Economy. (2005)

11. Ibn-Khaldun’s stage in the development of the state. (2002)

12. Elaborate the concept of state and government by Ibn-e-Khaldun. (2026)

XVI. Al-Farabi

1. Discuss in detail the concept of "Raisul Awwal" by Al-Farabi. (2014)

2. Short Note - Al-Farabi theory of state (2012)

3. Ideal State of Al-Farabi (2010)

4. Al-Farabi Concept of State (2004)

5. Al-Farabi must be placed among the proponents of the Theory of Social Contract." In the light of this statement. (2003)

6. "Farabi was much inspired by Plato in his setting of the Ideal City, or the Model State." Discuss (2001)

XVII. Nizam-ul-Mulk Tusi

1. Elaborate the Theory of Kingship as propounded by Nizamul-Mulk Tusi. (2024)

2. Discuss the theory of Kingship as propounded by Nizam-ul-Mulk Tusi. (2009)

XVIII. State System

1. In an Islamic state, Islam is considered a complete code of life, which provides guidelines for proper management of political power. Elaborate. (2023)

2. The nature and emergence of "nation state" (2011)

3. An Ideal Islamic State is bound to bring revolutionary changes in all spheres of human life." Discuss (2010)

4. Elaborate the characteristics of Islamic State. Give proper references from the Holy Quran and Sunnah. (2003)

5. Keeping in view the concept of Shura in Islam, which system of government you suggest for an Islamic State - Presidential, Parliamentary or any other? Explain you answer in detail, especially with reference to the practical problems. (2001)

XIX. Sovereignty Rights and Liberty

1. Sovereignty is the most essential element of statehood. Explain the differences in Western and Islamic concepts of sovereignty. (2024)

2. Write short notes on the following:(2024) (a) Liberty (2024)

3. What are the political and legal constraints over the sovereignty of parliament in Pakistan? (2021)

4. Liberty (2014)

5. Define and discuss Liberty and its safeguards. Enlist the causes of decline in modern times. (2013)

6. Short Note - Right and duties are facets of the same coin. (2011)

7. Attributes of Sovereignty (2010)

8. Basic Rights. (2009)

9. Define and discuss Liberty and its safeguards. Enlist the causes of its decline in modern times also. (2009)

10. "Liberty is described as power to do or enjoy something that is worth doing or enjoying in common with others." In the light of the above statement discuss the significance of liberty in the contemporary societies. (2008)

11. Sovereignty is the most essential element of state hood-explain wrt the differences in the nature of western and Islamic concepts of sovereignty. (2007)

12. Rights and duties are based on the principal of reciprocity? Explain. (2006)

13. Critically examine the most important theories of Rights as explained by different writers. (Minimum three) (2005)

14. Rights are conceived in different ways of various political philosophers. Critically examine the most important theories of right. (2002)

15. "If a determinate human superior, not in the habit of obedience to a like superior, receives habitual obedience from the bulk of given society," that determinate superior is sovereign in that society and that society-(including the superior) is a society political and independent". Austin. Critically examine the theory of sovereignty with reference to views expressed by thinkers in the 16th century. (2000)

XX. Forms of Government and Political System

1. Capitalism and Democracy are the two faces of same coin. Elaborate with appropriate arguments. (2026)

2. The adoption of parliamentary system in Pakistan is the result of political experiences of Pakistanis in the past. Elaborate. (2023)

3. Discuss "Democratic Political System". How can it bring even change in the society. (2014)

4. Discuss the "Political Culture". Also, its importance. (2014)

5. Discuss the principal advantages and disadvantages of parliamentary over Presidential form of Government with special reference to Pakistan. (2012)

6. What are the prerequisites for the success of democratic Political System? (2011)

7. Would you agree if it is stated that dictatorship is the only remedy for social, political and economic instability in a developing country? (2010)

8. Examine in detail the principal advantages and disadvantages of parliamentary over presidential form of government. (2008)

9. What are the powers and functions of an executive as a second great organ of the Government? (2004)

10. Compare and contrast between Democracy and Dictatorship (2003)

XXI. Pressure Groups Political Parties

1. Political parties are main engines of social change and political recruitment. Comment. (2026)

2. What are salient features of a professional and apolitical bureaucracy? (2023)

3. Critically evaluate the importance of political parties in a modern state. Assess their role as effective instrument for mobilizing public opinion. (2024)

4. Define political parties and their functions. In your view, which party system is suitable for Pakistan's political system? (2013)

5. Discuss organization & functions of pressure groups. Point out indicators of its effectiveness also. (2009)

6. Discuss the importance of Political Parties in a Modern state and assess their role as an effective instrument of mobilizing Public Opinion. (2007)

7. What are the agencies available for the formation of and expression of public opinion? Also discuss the methods of influencing public opinion. Can public opinion be regarded as the 5th essential element of a modern democratic state? (2006)

8. Give a brief account of historical evolution of Political Parties with reference to theories on the origin of Parties. Also enumerates functions of Political Parties. (2005)

9. What are the agencies available for formation and expression of public opinion? Also discuss the methods of influencing this opinion. (2004)

10. Pressure Groups (2003)

11. Political Parties (2003)

XXII. Military Interventions in Politics

1. Separation of Power (2014)

2. Independence of judiciary (2013)

3. Write a comprehensive note on the power of judicial review and its limits in the context of Pakistan (2011)

4. In what circumstances might a democratic country turn to military dictatorship or totalitarian rule? (2008)

5. Discuss the three principles for constituting the Second Chamber in a bi-cameral Legislature. (2005)

6. Explain the doctrine of Judicial Review. (2005)

7. Explain the general reasons of military interventions in politics in the developing countries of the world. What precautionary measures you suggest to avoid such situation. (2001)

XXIII. Federation/Liberalism/Nationalism

1. Write short notes on the following (2024) a. Nationalism (2024)

2. Merits of Federation. (2013) (2009)

3. Short Note - classical Liberalism (2012)

4. What are the essential pre-requisites for a successful Federal System? (2007)

5. In all federations there is a manifest tendency to entrust the central governments with a wider and wider sphere of authority." Analyze the statement and discuss it in detail. (2002)

6. Differentiate between Federation and Alliance. (2002)

7. What are the reasons for the increased activity of the state in modern times? Do you subscribe to the views that the failure of democracy in Pakistan is the consequence of misplaced priorities, determined by its leaders on the basis of their self-interest and prejudices against their opponents? (2000)

8. Differentiate between Confederation and Federation. Explain the basic principles and prerequisites of an effective Federation. (2026)

XXIV. Fascism/Communism

1. Oligarchy (2014)

2. Principles of Fascism. (2009)

3. Fascism VS Platonism (2005)

4. Discuss the principles of "Fascism" highlighting its historical background. (2004)

5. Communism is inimical to democracy, freedom and actual rights." Critically examine the statement. (2003)

6. What are the salient features of communism? Briefly explain. (2003)

XXV. Devolution of Power Plan

1. Point out the problems and prospects of local -self Government in Pakistan. (2007)

2. Write an essay on the structure and powers of the present local Government in Pakistan. Point out its merits and demerits. (2003)

3. Explain also its positive as well as negative points as compared to the previous system of local government in Pakistan. (2001)

4. Write a critical note on "Devolution of Power Plan ". (2000)

XXVI. Political Culture and Participation

1. Political Culture and Political Participation are the backbones of Political System's development. Keeping in view the statement, analyse different levels of political culture and modes of political participation. (2026)

Political Science-I CSS Preparation

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