BPSC -133: COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

(TUTOR MARKED ASSIGNMENTS)

Course code: BPSC-133

Assignment Code: BPSC-133/ASST/TMA/2023-24
Marks: 100

Answer all questions in the three Assignments and submit them together.

Assignment - I

Answer the following in about 500 words each. Each question carries 20 marks.

1. Describe the important methods of comparison in the study of political science.

2. Discuss the different type of functions performed by political parties in democratic
systems.

Assignment - II

Answer the following questions in about 250 words each. Each question carries 10
marks

1. Comment on the changing nature of federalism in contemporary politics.

2. What are the distinctive features of a parliamentary system?
3. Briefly describe the three dominant approaches to globalisation.

Assignment - III

Answer the following questions in about 100 words each. Each question carries 6
marks.

1. What are the major obstacles to the success of democratic regimes in the developing
countries?
2. Distinguish different types of military regimes.
3. What is the communitarian perspective on the nature of the state.
4. Examine the strengths and weaknesses of plurality and majority based electoral
systems.
5. What are the core assumptions of neo-Marxism?

***

3
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BPSC -133 2023-24 COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

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Answer all questions in the three Assignments and submit them together.

Assignment - I

S.
Answer the following in about 500 words each. Each question carries 20

50 NT
marks.

80 E
1. Describe the important methods of comparison in the study of political
26 NM
science.

In the study of political science, comparison is a crucial method used to

91 IG

understand political systems, institutions, behaviors, and processes across

different countries and regions. Comparing political phenomena enables
98 S

scholars to identify patterns, similarities, and differences, leading to deeper

AS

insights and a more comprehensive understanding of political dynamics. There

are several important methods of comparison in political science, each serving
U

different purposes and providing unique perspectives. Some of these methods

O

include:
N

1. Case Study: Case study involves an in-depth analysis of a single political

IG

entity, such as a country or a specific political event. Scholars use case

studies to examine complex phenomena and understand the intricacies
of a particular political system. Case studies allow for a detailed
examination of historical and contextual factors influencing political
outcomes.

2. Comparative Politics: Comparative politics is the systematic study of

political systems and institutions in different countries. It involves
comparing various aspects of political systems, such as forms of

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government, electoral systems, party systems, and public policies. This

method helps identify similarities and differences between political
systems and generates theories about political behavior and governance.

3. Cross-National Comparison: Cross-national comparison involves

comparing political phenomena across multiple countries. Scholars use
statistical methods to analyze data from different countries to identify
trends, correlations, and patterns. This method allows for the
identification of common factors that may influence political outcomes
across nations.

IN
4. Historical Comparison: Historical comparison involves studying political

S.
developments over time in different countries or regions. By examining

50 NT
historical events and their impact on political institutions and processes,
scholars gain insights into long-term trends and legacies that shape
80 E
contemporary politics.
26 NM
5. Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA): QCA is a method that uses both
qualitative and quantitative data to compare and analyze political
phenomena. It seeks to identify the necessary and sufficient conditions
91 IG

that lead to specific political outcomes. QCA is particularly useful when

98 S

studying complex and multifaceted political issues.

AS

6. Institutional Analysis: This method focuses on comparing political

institutions and their functions across different political systems.
U

Scholars examine the design and effectiveness of institutions like

O

legislatures, executives, and judiciaries to understand their impact on

N

governance and policy outcomes.

IG

7. Ethnographic Comparison: Ethnographic comparison involves detailed,

on-the-ground observations of political behavior and practices in
different cultural and social contexts. This method allows for a deeper
understanding of political processes at the grassroots level and how they
interact with broader political systems.

8. Policy Analysis: Policy analysis involves comparing policies and their

implementation in different countries. It helps identify successful policy
approaches and best practices that can be adapted in other contexts.

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9. Regional Comparison: Regional comparison focuses on comparing

political systems and processes within specific geographic regions. This
method allows for a more nuanced understanding of regional dynamics
and how they interact with broader global trends.

2. Discuss the different type of functions performed by political parties in

democratic systems.

Political parties play a crucial role in democratic systems, serving various

IN
functions that contribute to the functioning and stability of the political

S.
process. The different types of functions performed by political parties in
democratic systems are as follows:

50 NT
1. Representation: Political parties represent the interests and aspirations
80 E
of different sections of society. They act as intermediaries between the
people and the government, articulating the needs and concerns of
26 NM
various social, economic, and cultural groups.

2. Formation of Government: One of the primary functions of political

91 IG

parties is to contest elections and form a government. In a parliamentary

98 S

system, the party or coalition with a majority in the legislature assumes

AS

power and forms the government. In a presidential system, the party

whose candidate wins the majority in the executive election forms the
U

government.
O

3. Participation in the Political Process: Political parties encourage citizens

N

to participate in the political process by voting, becoming members of

parties, or engaging in activism. They mobilize public support and
IG

encourage political awareness and engagement.

4. Agenda Setting and Policy Formulation: Political parties develop policy

platforms and agendas that outline their vision for governance. They
debate and formulate policies on various issues, from economic
development to social welfare and foreign affairs.

5. Oversight and Accountability: In opposition, political parties act as

watchdogs, scrutinizing the government's actions and policies. They hold

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the ruling party accountable by questioning decisions, raising issues, and

offering alternative approaches.

6. Political Socialization: Political parties play a role in educating citizens

about political issues, ideologies, and the democratic process. They help
shape public opinion and political culture by disseminating information
and promoting values and beliefs.

7. Integration and Mediation: Political parties integrate various social,

cultural, and regional groups into the political system. They mediate

IN
between different interests and seek to find common ground for policy-
making.

S.
8. Recruitment and Political Careers: Political parties are a crucial avenue

50 NT
for individuals to enter politics and pursue political careers. They provide
a platform for aspiring politicians to rise through the ranks and contest
elections. 80 E
26 NM
9. Promoting Political Stability: In a multi-party system, political parties can
play a role in promoting political stability by forming coalitions and
91 IG

ensuring a balance of power. They negotiate and collaborate to build

consensus and maintain governance.
98 S
AS

10.Socialization and Normative Functions: Political parties transmit values,

norms, and ideologies to their members and supporters. They help
U

shape collective identities and contribute to the development of a

shared political culture.
O
N

11.Addressing Group Conflicts: Political parties provide a channel for

resolving societal conflicts through peaceful and democratic means. They
IG

offer mechanisms for resolving disagreements and achieving

compromise between different interest groups.

Assignment - II

Answer the following questions in about 250 words each. Each question
carries 10 marks

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1. Comment on the changing nature of federalism in contemporary politics.

The nature of federalism in contemporary politics is experiencing significant

changes and challenges due to various factors and global trends. These
changes are reshaping the dynamics between central and regional
governments, altering power relations, and impacting policy-making processes.
Some key aspects of the changing nature of federalism in contemporary politics
are:

1. Devolution of Power: Many countries are witnessing an increased

IN
devolution of power from the central government to regional or local
authorities. Devolution aims to address regional disparities, promote

S.
local governance, and empower communities to make decisions that

50 NT
directly affect them.

2. Decentralization: Decentralization involves the transfer of administrative

80 E
and financial responsibilities to local governments. This trend is gaining
26 NM
momentum as it enhances local accountability, improves service delivery,
and fosters citizen participation in decision-making.
91 IG

3. Asymmetric Federalism: Some federal systems are moving towards

asymmetric federalism, where different regions have varying degrees of
98 S

autonomy and powers. This approach accommodates regional diversity

AS

and addresses demands for special status or privileges by certain

regions.
U

4. Globalization: Globalization has led to increased interdependence among

O

countries, challenging the traditional boundaries of federalism. Nations

N

must now cooperate and coordinate on global issues such as climate

IG

change, trade, and security, which often require central and regional
governments to work together.

5. Economic Integration: The rise of economic blocs and regional trading

agreements necessitates cooperation among different levels of
government to facilitate economic integration and benefit from cross-
border opportunities.

6. Secessionist Movements: Some regions are seeking greater autonomy or

complete independence, challenging the unity and stability of federal
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countries. These secessionist movements raise complex questions about

the right to self-determination and territorial integrity.

7. National Identity and Diversity: In diverse countries, federalism is used as

a mechanism to manage and accommodate various ethnic, linguistic, and
cultural identities. Balancing national unity with regional diversity
remains a significant challenge.

8. Role of Courts: Courts in federal systems increasingly play a critical role

in resolving disputes between the central and regional governments.

IN
Judicial activism can influence the interpretation of federal principles and
impact intergovernmental relations.

S.
9. Fiscal Federalism: Fiscal arrangements between central and regional

50 NT
governments are evolving, with debates on revenue-sharing, tax
autonomy, and grants becoming prominent. Ensuring fiscal autonomy
80 E
and equity while maintaining fiscal discipline is a delicate balancing act.
26 NM
10.Technological Advancements: Advancements in technology have
transformed governance and service delivery. E-governance initiatives
91 IG

and digital platforms are altering the way governments interact with
citizens, impacting the distribution of power and resources.
98 S
AS

2. What are the distinctive features of a parliamentary system?

U

A parliamentary system of government is a democratic system in which the

O

executive branch derives its legitimacy and authority from the legislature. It is
N

characterized by several distinctive features that set it apart from other forms
IG

of government, such as presidential systems. The key features of a

parliamentary system are as follows:

1. Fusion of Powers: In a parliamentary system, the executive and

legislative branches are fused together. The executive, led by the Prime
Minister, is drawn from the majority party or coalition in the legislature.
This fusion ensures a close relationship between the executive and the
legislature.

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2. Prime Minister as Head of Government: The Prime Minister is the head

of government and exercises executive powers on behalf of the Crown or
the President (in countries with a constitutional monarch or a
ceremonial President). The Prime Minister is usually the leader of the
majority party in the lower house of parliament.

3. Collective Responsibility: Ministers in the government are collectively

responsible to the parliament for their actions and policies. If the
government loses the confidence of the majority in the parliament, it
must resign, leading to a change in government or fresh elections.

IN
4. No Fixed Terms: The executive's term in a parliamentary system is not

S.
fixed; it depends on the government's ability to retain the confidence of

50 NT
the parliament. As long as the government commands the majority's
support, it can continue in power.
80 E
5. Confidence and No-Confidence Motions: In a parliamentary system, a
26 NM
vote of confidence or no-confidence can be initiated to test the
government's support in the legislature. A vote of confidence reaffirms
the government's mandate, while a vote of no-confidence can lead to
91 IG

the government's downfall and the need for new elections.

98 S

6. Role of the Monarch or President: In countries with constitutional

AS

monarchies, the monarch plays a symbolic and ceremonial role, while

the Prime Minister holds real executive power. In republics with a
U

parliamentary system, the President usually has a ceremonial role, and

O

the Prime Minister is the head of government.

N

7. Quick Decision-Making: A parliamentary system allows for quicker

IG

decision-making and flexibility in responding to crises or urgent matters,

as the government can act swiftly without being tied to fixed terms.

8. Limited Separation of Powers: Unlike presidential systems, parliamentary

systems have a limited separation of powers, as the executive and
legislative branches are intertwined.

3. Briefly describe the three dominant approaches to globalisation.

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The concept of globalization is complex and multifaceted, and scholars have

proposed various approaches to understand and analyze its implications. Three
dominant approaches to globalization are:

1. Hyperglobalist Approach: The hyperglobalist approach views

globalization as a transformative and all-encompassing force that is
fundamentally reshaping the world. Proponents of this approach argue
that globalization is leading to the erosion of national boundaries, the
creation of a single global market, and the emergence of a global culture.
They emphasize the growing interconnectedness and interdependence

IN
among nations, driven by advancements in technology and

S.
communication. According to the hyperglobalist perspective,
globalization is promoting a homogenized global society where cultural,

50 NT
economic, and political differences are diminishing. Critics, however,
argue that this approach overlooks the persistence of local and national
80 E
identities and the continuing significance of state sovereignty.
26 NM
2. Skeptical Approach: The skeptical approach to globalization questions
the extent and impact of globalization. Scholars following this approach
91 IG

argue that while there is some level of global integration, it is limited and
does not undermine the importance of nation-states. They contend that
98 S

economic globalization, while significant, is not all-encompassing and

AS

often coexists with regional and local economic systems. Skeptics also
highlight the continuing role of states as powerful actors in global affairs,
U

shaping the course of globalization through their policies and actions.

O

They caution against overestimating the extent of global integration and

N

emphasize the importance of considering national and local contexts.

IG

3. Transformationalist Approach: The transformationalist approach strikes a

middle ground between hyperglobalism and skepticism. It acknowledges
that globalization is a transformative force, but its impact varies across
different sectors and regions. Transformationalists argue that while
globalization is reshaping economic, political, and cultural dynamics, it is
also met with resistance and challenges. This approach recognizes that
nation-states continue to play a significant role in shaping globalization
and that the relationship between globalization and state sovereignty is
complex and evolving. Transformationalists focus on the dynamic and
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contingent nature of globalization, recognizing both its potentials and

limitations.

Assignment - III

Answer the following questions in about 100 words each. Each question
carries 6 marks.

1. What are the major obstacles to the success of democratic regimes in the

IN
developing countries?

S.
Major obstacles to the success of democratic regimes in developing countries
include:

50 NT
1. Weak Institutions: Underdeveloped and inefficient institutions hinder the
80 E
effective functioning of democratic governance.
26 NM
2. Political Instability: Frequent changes in leadership and government
instability disrupt policymaking and implementation.
91 IG

3. Corruption: Rampant corruption erodes public trust and undermines

democratic principles.
98 S
AS

4. Economic Challenges: Poverty, inequality, and lack of economic

opportunities can lead to social unrest and political instability.
U

5. Ethnic and Religious Divisions: Deep-seated ethnic and religious tensions

O

can lead to conflicts that undermine democratic processes.

N

6. Lack of Civic Participation: Low levels of political awareness and civic

IG

engagement limit citizens' participation in decision-making.

7. External Interference: Influence from foreign powers can manipulate

democratic processes and weaken local institutions.

2. Distinguish different types of military regimes.

Different types of military regimes can be distinguished based on their

characteristics and objectives:
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1. Authoritarian Military Regime: This type of regime is characterized by the

dominance of the military in politics, with the military leaders assuming
control over the government. Civilian institutions may exist, but they
have limited power, and the military often suppresses dissent and
opposition.

2. Revolutionary Military Regime: In this type, the military seizes power

with the goal of instituting radical political, social, or economic changes.
They usually overthrow a previous regime and implement a new
ideology or governance system.

IN
3. Junta: A junta is a small group of military officers that rules a country.

S.
They often come to power through a coup d'état or a revolt against the

50 NT
civilian government.

4. Interventionist Military Regime: In this type, the military intervenes in

80 E
politics temporarily to address a crisis or to restore order. They may
26 NM
promise a return to civilian rule once the situation stabilizes.

5. Transitional Military Regime: This type of regime emerges during periods

91 IG

of political transition, such as after the fall of a dictatorship or the

dissolution of a civilian government. The military assumes power
98 S

temporarily until a new government is established.

AS
U

3. What is the communitarian perspective on the nature of the state.

O

The communitarian perspective on the nature of the state emphasizes the

N

importance of community and shared values in shaping the state's role and
IG

functions. Communitarians argue that the state should promote the well-being
and common good of the community, rather than prioritizing individual rights
and interests. They believe that a strong sense of community and social
cohesion is essential for a healthy society and that the state should play a
central role in fostering and preserving these values. Communitarians advocate
for a balance between individual rights and collective responsibilities, seeking
to reconcile individual autonomy with the welfare of the community.

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4. Examine the strengths and weaknesses of plurality and majority based

electoral systems.

Plurality-based electoral systems, like First-Past-the-Post, have the strength of

simplicity and clear outcomes, as the candidate with the most votes wins.
However, they can lead to disproportionate representation, as winning
candidates may not have majority support. Majority-based systems, like the
Two-Round System, ensure candidates have majority support, but may require
multiple rounds, leading to increased costs and complexity. Both systems may
encourage strategic voting and create a two-party dominance, limiting smaller

IN
parties' representation. Plurality systems can produce strong and stable

S.
governments, while majority systems may lead to more consensus-based
decision-making. The strengths and weaknesses depend on specific contexts

50 NT
and political goals.

80 E
5. What are the core assumptions of neo-Marxism?
Neo-Marxism builds upon traditional Marxist ideas but incorporates additional
26 NM
elements to address perceived limitations in classical Marxism. Core
assumptions of neo-Marxism include:
91 IG

1. Expanding Class Analysis: Neo-Marxists consider multiple forms of

98 S

oppression beyond economic class, such as race, gender, and culture,

AS

which intersect to shape power dynamics.

2. State and Power: Neo-Marxists explore the role of the state in

U

perpetuating or challenging capitalist systems and recognize the state's

O

relative autonomy from purely economic forces.

N

3. Ideology and Culture: Emphasizing the significance of cultural and

IG

ideological influences, neo-Marxists study how dominant ideas maintain

social order and how counter-hegemonic ideas can challenge it.

4. Human Agency: Neo-Marxism allows for greater human agency in

shaping history and social change, countering deterministic tendencies in
classical Marxism.

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