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Political Science is more than just governments and elections; it’s a lens to understand power, justice, and human society. In NCERT Class 11 Political Science Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction, students explore the core ideas that shape political thought and institutions. To help students master these concepts effectively, we’ve provided clear and concise solutions to the exercises in this chapter. These solutions are crafted to simplify complex ideas, clarify key principles, and empower students to build a strong foundation in the subject.
Contents
- 1 NCERT Solutions Class 11 Political Theory Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction
- 2 Class 11 Political Science Chapter 1 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved: Additional Questions and Answers
- 3 Download NCERT Solutions Class 11 Political Science Political Theory Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction
Explore Notes of Class 11 Political Theory
NCERT Solutions Class 11 Political Theory Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction
This section guides students to clear solutions of Class 11 Political Theory Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction. You can go through the detailed explanation of the subject by understanding the solutions below.
Exercise
1. Which of the following statements are true/false about Political Theory?
(a) It discusses ideas that form the basis of political institutions.
(b) It explains the relationship between different religions.
(c) It explains the meanings of concepts like equality and freedom.
(d) It predicts the performance of political parties.
Solutions:
(a) True
(b) False
(c) True
(d) False
2. Politics is more than what politicians do. Do you agree with this statement? Give examples.
Solution:
Yes, I agree. Politics is not just about politicians’ actions; it involves how people, groups, and institutions make decisions, manage resources, and exercise power in society.
Examples:
- Citizens voting in elections is a political act, as it shapes who holds power.
- Protests by students for better education policies are political, as they demand change.
- Community discussions on local issues, like water supply, involve politics by addressing collective needs.
These show politics extends beyond politicians to everyday actions influencing society.
3. Vigilant citizens are a must for the successful working of a democracy. Comment.
Solution:
Vigilant citizens are essential for a democracy to function effectively. Democracy relies on active participation, awareness, and accountability.
- Awareness: Vigilant citizens stay informed about government actions and policies, ensuring they make informed choices during elections.
- Accountability: They question leaders and demand transparency, preventing misuse of power.
- Participation: Active citizens vote, join discussions, or protest, strengthening democratic processes.
For example, citizens exposing corruption through social media or participating in public debates ensure democracy remains responsive and fair. Without vigilant citizens, democracy may weaken due to apathy or unchecked power.
4. In what ways is the study of political theory useful for us? Identify four ways in which political theory can be useful to us.
Solution: Studying political theory is valuable as it helps us understand and engage with the political world. Four ways it is useful:
- Clarifies Concepts: It explains ideas like freedom, equality, and justice, helping us understand their role in society.
- Guides Decision-Making: It provides principles to evaluate policies and leaders, aiding informed choices in elections.
- Encourages Critical Thinking: It teaches us to question power structures and policies, fostering independent thought.
- Shapes Better Citizens: It inspires active participation in democracy by highlighting rights and responsibilities.
5. Do you think that a good/convincing argument can compel others to listen to you?
Solutions:
Yes, a good and convincing argument can compel others to listen. When an argument is clear, logical, and supported by facts, it grabs attention and persuades people.
- For example, if a student argues for better school facilities with evidence of poor conditions, teachers or officials are more likely to listen.
- However, the argument must be respectful and relevant to the audience’s concerns to be effective.
A strong argument appeals to reason and emotions, making others open to your perspective, even if they don’t fully agree.
6. Do you think studying political theory is like studying mathematics? Give reasons for your answer.
Solution: No, studying political theory is not like studying mathematics, though they share some similarities.
Reasons:
- Nature of Subject: Mathematics deals with fixed rules and definite answers (e.g., 2 + 2 = 4), while political theory explores abstract ideas like justice and freedom, which can have multiple interpretations.
- Approach: Mathematics uses formulas and calculations, whereas political theory involves discussion, debate, and critical thinking about human behaviour and society.
- Certainty: Mathematical solutions are universal, but political theory often depends on context, culture, and perspectives, leading to diverse viewpoints.
However, both require logical thinking and analysis to solve problems. Political theory, though, is more open-ended and connected to real-world complexities.
Also Read:
- NCERT Class 11 Understanding Society Chapter 2: Social Change and Social Order in Rural and Urban Society Notes (Free PDF)
- NCERT Class 11 Sociology Chapter 2 Terms, Concepts, and Their Use in Sociology Solutions (Free PDF)
Class 11 Political Science Chapter 1 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved: Additional Questions and Answers
To help students practice, strengthen learning, and prepare effectively, the following additional questions and answers are provided for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 1 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved.
Q1. What is Politics?
Ans. Politics refers to the system through which a society makes collective decisions and resolves common issues. It involves the interaction of individuals, groups, and institutions to create laws, form policies, and organise governance. Through politics, power is distributed, public priorities are set, and the structure of authority within a society is defined.
Q2. How does politics influence our daily life? Analyse a day’s events in your life.
Ans. Politics shapes daily life because most public services and rules are connected to government decisions. For instance, school timings, textbooks, and examination rules reflect educational policies. Road safety rules guide how we travel, while public transport charges and fuel prices are determined through government planning. Even our access to electricity, sanitation, healthcare, and digital services is influenced by political decisions. Thus, politics quietly influences routines, opportunities, and responsibilities in everyday life.
Q3. Should students participate in politics?
Ans. Yes, students should engage in politics with awareness and maturity. Participation helps them understand democratic values, develop leadership qualities, and recognise their rights and responsibilities as citizens. Active involvement can encourage meaningful discussions on social issues and strengthen democratic participation. However, this engagement should not disrupt academic goals and must always follow peaceful and respectful methods.
Q4. What do we study in political theory?
Ans. Political theory examines key ideas that guide political life, such as freedom, justice, equality, citizenship, and rights. It helps us understand how societies should be governed and why certain rules or institutions exist. The study also includes exploring political ideologies, forms of government, and debates on ethical and democratic principles. Through political theory, students learn to analyse political issues thoughtfully and become conscious participants in public life.
Q5. Write a short note on any of the political thinkers mentioned in the chapter. [50 words]
Ans. Mahatma Gandhi emphasised moral and self-governed freedom, which he explained in his work Hind Swaraj. He believed true independence meant self-discipline, equality, and non-violence. His ideas encouraged peaceful resistance and inspired movements for justice, democratic rights, and ethical governance across the world.
Q6. Can you identify the political principle or value being applied in each of the following statements or situations?
| Situation | Political Value/Principle Applied |
| People elect leaders through voting. | Democracy and Representation |
| All citizens are treated the same in legal matters. | Equality and Rule of Law |
| Individuals freely share opinions and ideas. | Freedom of Expression |
| Government works according to the Constitution. | Constitutionalism and Accountability |
| Schemes support weaker and disadvantaged groups. | Social Justice and Welfare |
Q7. Who wrote the Hind Swaraj?
Ans. Hind Swaraj was written by Mahatma Gandhi.
Q8. Who argued first that equality was as crucial as freedom? ‘Human beings are unique’. Give any two arguments.
Ans. Karl Marx was the first to argue that equality is just as important as freedom.
Two arguments proving human uniqueness are:
1. Humans possess rational thinking, which helps them make moral judgments, solve conflicts, and participate in organised political systems.
2. Humans communicate through complex language, enabling cooperation, the sharing of ideas, and the formation of societies and institutions.
Q9. Mention the characteristics to constitute the politics.
Ans. Politics includes decision-making on public matters, the exercise of authority, the participation of citizens, the negotiation of conflicting interests, and the implementation of rules through institutions. It seeks to organise power fairly, resolve disputes peacefully, and promote collective welfare.
Q10. Why should we study political theory?
Ans. Studying political theory helps us understand values like democracy, justice, rights, and freedom. It enables individuals to examine whether society protects these principles and encourages critical thinking about governance and public policy. Political theory prepares citizens to participate responsibly in democratic processes and contribute to a fair society.
Q 11. How can we show our interest in government?
Ans. Interest in government can be shown by staying informed about public affairs, voting responsibly, respecting laws, and participating in discussions on national and local issues. Supporting community initiatives, attending civic programmes, and expressing opinions peacefully are meaningful ways to take part in democratic life.
Download NCERT Solutions Class 11 Political Science Political Theory Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction
You can also download the NCERT solutions for Class 11 Political Theory Chapter 1: Political Theory: An Introduction. We have given the free PDF for students below.
Also Read:
- NCERT Class 11 Understanding Society Chapter 3: Environment and Society Solutions (Free PDF)
- NCERT Class 11 Understanding Society Chapter 2: Social Change and Social Order in Rural and Urban Society Solutions (Free PDF)
Download NCERT Solutions of all Chapters of Class 11 Sociology Introducing Sociology here:
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