Rajasthan Board RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Scope of the State
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Textual Questions
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Very Short Answer type Questions
Question 1.
Name the school of thought having belief in police state.
Answer:
The doctrine of non – interference.
Question 2.
Write one function of Laissezist state (a state of non-interference).
Answer:
Establishment of peace and order.
Question 3.
Mention the names of two thinkers who consider the state as an accomplishment.
Answer:
- Plato
- Aristotle
Question 4.
Mention the names of two thinkers who regard the state as a means.
Answer:
- J.S. Mill
- Herbert Spencer
Question 5.
Mention two supportive thinkers of public welfare state.
Answer:
- Prof. Harold Laski
- J.S. Mill
Question 6.
Mention two hurdles in the way of public welfare state.
Answer:
- Bureaucracy
- Lack of motivation
Question 7.
In the 19th century, which thought was most prevalent?
Answer:
Thought of non – interference (Laissezist concept).
Question 8.
In which part of the Indian constitution has the provision of public welfare been mentioned?
Answer:
Directive Principles of State Policy.
Question 9.
State two limits of a state.
Answer:
- Public opinion
- Religion (dharma).
Question 10.
Mention the thoughts (schools of views) related to the functional scope of a state.
Answer:
- Doctrine of non – interference
- Concept of public welfare state,
- Gandhian thought of a state.
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
Write two basic principles of non – interfering state.
Answer:
Basic principles non – interfering (Laissezist) state:
The following are the two basic principles of a non – interfering state:
1. State is a necessary evil:
As per the thinkers of policy of non – interference, it is quite necessary to have a state for security, peace and establishment of a system, but interference in the liberty of an individual leads to impediments in all-round development of an individual. Hence, those who believe in non – interference, regard the state as a necessary evil.
2. Complete freedom to an individual:
The supporters of policy of non – interference extend support to optimum liberty of an individual. Non-interventionists believe in laissez – faire, which means, they believe in policy of non-interference. They believe in leaving people to their fate. They have the view that a state should not interfere in the liberty of an individual.
Question 2.
Mention two arguments against a non – interfering state.
Answer:
Arguments against a non – interfering state:
The following are two arguments in opposition to non – interfering state:
1. An individual is always a supreme judge of his own interests:
Believers of non-interference think that an individual is the best judge of his interests and therefore, a state should not intervene into his activities and matters. But critics believe that every individual cannot understand what is best for him and he also does not have the capacity to understand what is right or what is wrong for him. Therefore, a state should interfere to ensure his welfare and well being.
2. State is a welfare institution:
The thinkers of policy of non – interference consider the state as a necessary evil, whereas the state is infact a welfare institution. Development and progress in all the countries has been possible with the help of the state. A state undertakes many activities for the welfare of an individual. Thus, to call a state an evil is not right.
Question 3.
Mention two objectives of public welfare state.
Answer:
Objectives of a public welfare state:
The two main objectives of a public welfare state are:
1. To make use of individual liberties possible:
The purpose of a public welfare state is to make possible the use of real freedom by citizens and also to ensure freedom of an individual in accordance with the scope of a state.
2. To prepare welfare planning and to provide basic amenities to its citizens:
The second main objective / duty of a state is to form different plans for welfare of all sections of the society and also to provide basic amenities and facilities to the citizens.
Question 4.
Mention two functions of a public welfare state.
Answer:
Functions of a public welfare state:
The functions of a public welfare state can be classified into two parts:
1. Necessary functions:
Security – related functions of a state come under necessary functions, such as maintenance of internal peace and order, security and judicial functions.
2. Optional functions:
These are such optional functions, which are executed by the state for the well-being of its citizens, such as social reforms, regulation of labour, agriculture, industry and regulation of business, help to lonely and victimised people, education, health security and family planning, etc.
Question 5.
Mention two objectives of Gandhian state.
Answer:
Gandhian state:
Though he emphasised the formation of stateless society as an ideal state, yet in practice, he has explained two objectives of a state under the concept of decentralised village self – governance and non-violent democracy, which are as follows:
1. Decentralised village self – governance:
In the form of decentralised village self governance, Gandhiji presented a sub-ideal of political arrangement. He believed that the ideal state of decentralised village self governance can also be obtained by gradual efforts and by changing fundamental notions in the outlook of the people, and to ensure its formation, there was a need of a time-specific programme.
2. Non – violent democracy:
In the form of provisionary reformist mission, Gandhiji envisaged a non – violent democracy. In a non-violent democracy, a state establishes non – violence in the life of its people by way of propagation of non – violence. Use of force is minimal in this system. Police and army will work as the servant of people. In peace time, army and police will be engaged in constructive activities.
Question 6.
Define Ramrajya (Utopia).
Answer:
Ramrajya:
Gandhiji’s concept of Ramrajya is not in context with the administration system of Lord Ram, instead, it is a vision of state – less society. It is such a sacred arrangement, wherein individual soul will have no foreign control. Gandhiji believes that when a person completely adopts the ideals of non – violence in his life and dedicates selfishness to the ultimate truth, (then) his power of logic and his soul will guide his entire behaviour with moral impact, so that he shall need no foreign control. In this situation, an individual will be his own ruler. Gandhiji termed this situation of stateless society as ‘enlightened’ anarchy. This is his Ramrajya (Utopia).
Question 7.
Explain the limitations of the state.
Answer:
Limitations of the state:
Following are the major limitations of the state:
1. Public opinion:
With regard to public opinion, Morris Ginsberg writes, “When the minds of many people operate mutually, then forms a social element called public opinion.” A state should not work at all under any situation against public opinion. The formation of a state is only for security and welfare of its people. Therefore, a state should not restrict people’s freedom of thought and freedom of expression unnecessarily, or else, people’s outrage may take a form of rebellion.
2. Religion:
A state should grant religious freedom to every individual. Besides, it should also be ensured that no individual is being forced by any person or institution to follow a specific religion.
3. Morality:
A state should take into its cognisance that it is not forcefully imposing its moral code of conduct on its people.
4. Daily behaviour of an individual:
A state should not put any impediments in the freedom of daily routine activities of an individual.
5. Fashion:
Fashion is related to personal choices. A state need not put any restrictions on it. A state should put/impose only appropriate and rational restrictions in this sphere.
Question 8.
“A state is an accomplishment”. Clarify this statement.
Answer:
In the context of a state being an accomplishment, some scholars – Plato, Aristotle, Bosanke, Hegel, etc. regard the state as the highest goal of human life and itself an accomplishment. According to the doctrines of Plato and Aristotle, society and state is a great moral institution whose purpose is the moral development of an individual. In Plato’s words, “State does not get out of trees or rocks. It is born out of the character of those people, who reside in it.” According to Aristotle, “The advent of a state is for the fulfilment of necessities of life and it exists for a good life.”
Treitschke believes that state is a person and it is our duty to worship it while bowing our head. At the same time, Hegel regards state an accomplishment in itself and as a godly incarnation on earth. Thinkers who believe the state to be an accomplishment unified one’s will with that of a state. This resulted in fascism. Fascists believe that, “Every thing is for the state, there is nothing against a state.” Idealistic thinkers accept the state as an accomplishment.
Question 9.
“State is a means”. Clarify this statement.
Answer:
“State is a means”. Thinkers who believe in this concept regard a state as a means for fulfilling the interests of an individual. According to their belief, all institutions are for welfare and prosperity of an individual, not an individual for these institutions. The sole aim of a state is to do good for its people. Individualist, anarchist and pluralist .thinkers regard a state as a means.
Individualistic thinkers do accept the existence of a state, but they do not consider a state as an accomplishment. J.S. Mill and Herbert Spencer regard the state as a necessary evil. They want a state’s work to be limited to police works only. Anarchists believe that one’s interest is of state governance. For them, a state is an unnecessary, unwanted and unnatural institution. Pluralist thinkers regard state as a community, just like other communities.
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Essay Type Questions
Question 1.
While clarifying the concept of non – interfering state, highlight its features.
Answer:
Concept of a non – interfering state:
Non – interfering, non – interventionist thought lays maximum emphasis on liberty of an individual and regards an individual as the best guardian of his own interests. As such, this doctrine emphasises limiting the scope of a state. The core principle of this thought is, “An individual is not for a state, in fact, a state is for an individual.” The goal of a state or other institutions is the development of an individual, not the objective of an individual to serve the state. A state must grant optimum liberty to an individual and it should not intervene in his works/activities.
Development of the concept of non – interfering state:
As a result of industrial revolution in 18th century, there developed non – interference in economic sector along with individualism. Economists, namely, Adam Smith, Ricardo, Malthus, Thomas Paine, etc. propagated the concept that a state should not interfere in economic matters.
In the form of political philosophy, this outlook is the gift of the 19th century. First of all, Bentham and James Mill enforced this and this followed its complete expression through the creations of John Stuart Mill and Herbert Spencer in the 19th century.
The principle of John Stuart Mill is that a state should go for minimum interference in people’s matters, only then it can provide maximum pleasure to an invidivual. The seeds of non – interference and individualism are found in the thinkers of Greece. Sophist thinkers have placed an individual above the state. Epicurean thinkers of Greece deem a state simply useless if it is distinct from individual interests. Modern individualism is a result of industrial revolution.
Features of non-interfering state:
The following are the main features of a non – interfering state:
1. State is a necessary evil:
It is quite necessary to have a state for the security of an individual and also for the establishment of peace and order, but all – round development of an individual gets hampered, as a state is an interference in his liberty. Therefore, Liberal thinkers term a state as a necessary evil.
2. An individual is an accomplishment and state a means:
According to the concept of non-interference, the duty of a state is to serve an individual. A state is for an individual, not an individual for a state. A state is a mere group of people and a state can progress only when there is people’s development.
3. Full liberty to an individual:
This principle is supportive for providing optimum liberty to an individual. A non – interfering state believes in the principle of “Laissez – faire”, that is, “Leave the people to their own devices”, and emphasises that a state should not interfere in the liberty of an individual.
4. Government, which has minimum administration, is the best:
According to non – interfering thinkers , the more limited the scope of a state, the better it is. A state should perform only restricted works and no welfare activity should be conducted. It is not appropriate for a state to do works relating to education, public health and other welfare activities. According to Freeman, “The government, which performs minimum administration, is the best.”
5. Limited scope of a state:
According to thinkers of non – interference (Laissezists), a state should perform security related duties only. Hence, its scope should be limited.
Question 2.
Explain the features of a public welfare state and also the necessary
conditions for its success.
Answer:
The following are main features / characteristics of a public welfare state:
1. Democratic system of administration:
A public welfare state is a democratic arrangement. It develops in democracy only. It is a good for all public welfare states to develop in such a way that there are no undue restrictions on the liberty of an individual. A public welfare state respects personal freedom and rights and adopts democratic means and social changes.
2. To provide social security:
A welfare state provides maximum security to its citizens. It provides opportunities for employment, and help to the helpless and weaker section and necessary help during ailments to old people.
3. To provide economic justice:
A welfare state delivers justice on the principle of economic equality. This state imposes more ‘taxes’ on wealthy class in order to eliminate social and economic disparities from the society.
4. To establish social justice:
A public welfare state tries to weed out the prevalent social disparities, evils, blind faith and also establishes social justice by bringing the backward and downtrodden class of society into the mainstream.
5. A middle path between individualism and socialism:
A public welfare state tries to bring about coordination between the two extreme concepts of individualism and socialism. There is a spurt in the functions of the state in this system, but the importance of an individual is also recognized and his freedom is sustained.
6. Spirit of international cooperation:
The thought of a welfare state is not only national, but it is also international. It is quite necessary in order to perpetuate the resources of national welfare that we pay heed to the necessity of having means of international interests besides the means of interests for a specific state.
Important Conditions required for Success of a Public Welfare State:
For a public welfare state to succeed, it is very important that it should fulfil the following
conditions:
1. Necessary functions:
For success of a public welfare state, the first condition is that it should perform the following necessary functions:
- To maintain internal peace and order.
- Security of the boundaries of the state.
- Proper judicial management and arrangement.
2. Optional’ functions:
It is important for the success of a public welfare state that it should also perform the following obligations for the sake of its citizens:
(1) Social reforms:
For the success of a welfare state, it is necessary to eliminate social evils such as imposing ban on alcohol consumption, prevention of child marriage, untouchability, caste system, etc.
(2) Regulation of agriculture, industry and business:
A public welfare state should regulate agriculture, industry and business in such a way that no one is exploited. For the development of agriculture, arrangement of HYV seeds and irrigation, etc. should be done by the state.
(3) Regulation of labour:
A welfare state should try to improve the condition of its workers. It should arrange for proper wages, pension, health care, insurance, education, help of workers when they are in distress, etc.
(4) Arrangement of education:
It is the responsibility of a public welfare state to make arrangement of education for its citizens. In this context, it should arrange for primary education, education for women and elderly persons. A state should make arrangement for reading rooms and libraries.
(5) Aid to the helpless and victims:
A welfare state should arrange for pension to aged persons, free healthcare and shelters for the homeless, etc.
(6) Healthcare:
For cleanliness and control of diseases, a state should try its best. For public health care, it should open dispensaries and medical research centers, and medical care should be provided free of cost to labourers, women, children, etc.
(7) Development of sources of moral values:
Besides materialistic development, moral values should also be taken care of by the state. For this, help of interpreters, radio, television, newspapers and magazines can be taken.
(8) Works related to family planning:
For the control of population, it should be ensured that family planning programmes reach the common people.
(9) Economic security:
A state should arrange for employment to all the people for their economic safety. In case, if this is not possible, a state should provide a ‘stipend’ for their livelihood.
Question 3.
Write an essay on Gandhian form of state.
Answer:
Gandhian form of a state:
With regard to a state, Gandhiji’s main thoughts are as follows:
1. A state is a symbol of organised violence:
Gandhiji criticized the concept of state. According to him, a state is a symbol of organised violence. By way of controlling the behaviour of an individual through its oppressive powers, it stifles the soul of an individual. According to Gandhiji, the state is an unnecessary evil.
2. State’s sovereignty is another name of violence:
Gandhiji strongly opposed the oppressive power structure of state. As per his belief, state’s sovereign power is another name of violence. Sovereignty of a state negates the moral right of an individual to decide within its parameters, and as such, it is the assassination of moral awareness.
Therefore, Gandhiji did not deem the state’s governance ‘tenable’ in any form. He equated the obedience to the state as a sin. According to him, terming the state orders based on state’s organised violence as laws is the ultimate devaluation of the importance of the strength of love and non – violence.
3. Three – tier arrangement:
As an ultimate accomplishment, Gandhiji envisaged a ‘stateless society’, but he also accepted that it is very difficult to establish a stateless society. And hence, he propagated a sub – idealist model in political system in the form of “decentralised village and state”, but there was a need for a time-specific programme, and hence, he envisaged a ‘non – violent democracy’ in the form of provisional reformist ideal. In this way, there are three models of Gandhiji’s ideal political system.
1. Ideal political system:
Stateless society: Gandhiji termed it “Ramrajya” (Utopia), but he also made it quite clear that ‘Ramrajya’ is not synonymous to ‘HINDU RAJYA’. Instead, it indicates a sacred system, wherein all foreign controls will vanish from upon the soul of an individual. Gandhiji named this system as ‘enlightened anarchy’.
2. Sub – ideal decentralised village self – governance:
Gandhiji equated the centralisation of political power with violence. He propagated that only a decentralised political system can be regarded in accordance with the ideal of non-violence. Gandhiji emphasised to make village a political unit.
3. Concept of non – violent democracy, Provisional reformist model:
Gandhiji’s concept of non – violent democracy emphasises such a situation, wherein there can be revolutionary changes in a state’s form and purpose while retaining its present structure. In a non – violent democracy, decentrlisation, truth and non-violence are its directives and formulae.
It can be said in a conclusive note, that according to Gandhiji, it was not possible to go for ‘Ramrajya’ and sub-ideal decentralised village self – rule and their immediate realisation, and hence, he made a model of non – violent democracy through provisional reforms.
Question 4.
What is the difference between compulsary and optional functions of a state?
Answer:
Difference between compulsary and optional functions of a state:
Compulsary functions:
1.The compulsory works of state refer to those functions which ought to be done by the state without fail, or else
the very existence of the state may fall in danger.
2. Compulsary functions of a state are:
- 1 Security of the country from foreign invasion.
- Establishment of internal peace and order.
- To collect revenue.
- Formation of rules by state in respect of crime and punishment.
- Proper management and arrangement of judicial system.
- Formation of Laws. Through law only, a state can give a concrete form to its sovereignty.
- Establishment of relations with other states along with international alliances.
Optional functions:
1. The optional functions of a state are those functions, which are not compulsary for the existence of a state, and freedom and security of an individual. They keep on changing in accordance with the country, time and circumstances. These works are known as public welfare activities of a state. These functions naturally increase along with the feeling of social welfare.
2. Optional functions of a state are:
- Arrangement of education for general public.
- Arrangement of cleanliness and public healthcare.
- Appropriate control on business and industries.
- Operation of industries of public importance.
- For the entertainment of citizens of a state, arrangement of parks, TV, Radio stations, cinema halls and reading rooms, etc.
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Multiple – Choice Questions
Question 1.
‘State is a necessary evil’. This statement is related to which thought?
(a) Individualism
(b) Capitalism
(c) Socialism
(d) Public welfare
Answer:
(a) Individualism
Question 2.
Gandhiji named “ideal state arrangement” to:
(a) Decenetralised village self-governance
(b) Non – violent democracy
(c) Ramrajya
(d) Democracy
Answer:
(c) Ramrajya
Question 3.
Which one of these is not a limitation of the state?
(a) Morality
(b) Tradition
(c) Rituals
(d) Decorum
Answer:
(d) Decorum
Question 4.
Which one of the following is not the objective of a public welfare state?
(a) Economic security
(b) Social security
(c) Political justice
(d) Defiance of public opinion
Answer:
(d) Defiance of public opinion
Question 5.
Which one of the following features is not related to welfare state?
(a) Democratic governance
(b) Social justice
(c) Social security
(d) State-less arrangement
Answer:
(d) State – less arrangement
Question 6.
Which one of the following is a compulsary function of a state?
(a) Safety from foreign attacks
(b) to provide health care
(c) Expansion of education
(d) agricultural growth
Answer:
(a) Safety from foreign attacks
Question 7.
Which one of the following is an optional function of a state?
(a) To maintain peace and order
(b) Safety from foreign attacks
(c) Arrangement of judicial system
(d) To provide banking facilities
Answer:
(d) To provide banking facilities
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Other Important Questions and Answers
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Multiple – Choice Questions:
Question 1.
The purpose of a state, according to Adam Smith, is:
(a) Protection from foreign attacks and internal violence.
(b) Protection from injustice to an individual and his torture from other people.
(c) Construction of public institutions.
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above
Question 2.
Which is / are the thinkers who regard a state as an accomplishment?
(a) Plato
(b) Aristotle
(c) Hegel
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above
Question 3.
“States are not born of trees and rocks. These are born out of character of those people who reside in it.” Whose statement is this?
(a)Plato
(b) Aristotle
(c) Hegel
(d) Bosanke
Answer:
(a)Plato
Question 4.
Who spoke this, “The advent of a state is for fulfilling the necessaties of life and this is available for good life.”
(a) Herbert Spencer
(b) Biuntschli
(c) Hegel
(d) Aristotle
Answer:
(d) Aristotle
Question 5.
“State is a symbol of real wish of people”. This statement is attributed to:
(a) Idealists
(b) Anarchists
(c) Individualist
(d) Interventionists
Answer:
(a) Idealists
Question 6.
“Everything is for a state, nothing is against the state”. This is conceptualised by:
(a) Individualists
(b) Pluralists
(c) Fascists
(d) Anarchists
Answer:
(c) Fascists
Question 7.
According to Laissezist principle, a state:
(a) is a means, an individual an accomplishment.
(b) is both an accomplishment and a means.
(c) is an accomplishment, and individual a means.
(d) is neither an accomplishment, nor a means
Answer:
(a) is a means, an individual an accomplishment.
Question 8.
“State is a necessary evil”. This statement is related to:
(a) Concept of democratic state
(b) Gandhism
(c) Principle of non – interference
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(c) Principle of non – interference
Question 9.
“The government with minimum administration is the best.” Which thought propogated this with regards to ‘Scope’ of a state:
(a) Gandhism view
(b) Public welfare view
(c) Laissezist view
(d) None of these
Answer:
(c) Laissezist view
Question 10.
Supportive principle which grants maximum liberty to individual:
(a) Gandhism
(b) The principle of public welfare
(c) Policy of non – interference
(d) Communism
Answer:
(c) Policy of non – interference
Question 11.
Which scholar supported the policy of non-interference by way of taking concepts from zoology?
(a) Herbert Spencer
(b) Adam Smith
(c) Ricardo
(d) Malthus
Answer:
(a) Herbert Spencer
Question 12.
Which state first formed laws for the welfare of the workers ?
(a) Germany
(b) England
(c) India
(d) France
Answer:
(b) England
Question 13.
In which year did Karl Marx and Engel publish the ‘Communist Mainfesto’ ?
(a) 1856
(b) 1947
(c) 1948
(d) 1917
Answer:
(c) 1948
Question 14.
A characteristic of welfare state is:
(a) Democratic administration
(b) to ensure economic justice
(c) Social security
(d) All these
Answer:
(d) All these
Question 15.
This is not a duty of citizens of a public welfare state:
(a) devotion towards the state
(b) To obey the orders of the state
(c) To pay taxes to the state
(d) To stay away from social service
Answer:
(d) To stay away from social service
Question 16.
Who among the following was a hardcore opposer of the oppressive power structure of modm state:
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) Garner
(c) Hegel
(d) Herbert Spencer
Answer:
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
Question 17.
Which of the following political thinkers envisaged a ‘non-violent democracy?
(a) Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Lenin
(c) Mahatma Gandhi
(d) Karl Marx
Answer:
(c) Mahatma Gandhi
Question 18.
What name did Gandhiji give to a ‘stateless society*?
(a) Ramrajya
(b) Liberal state
(c) Democracy
(d) Marxism
Answer:
(a) Ramrajya
Question 19.
Which of the followings Indian freedom fighters equated centralisation of political power with violence?
(a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(b) Mahatma Gandhi
(c) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(d) Bhagat Singh
Answer:
(b) Mahatma Gandhi
Question 20.
A limitation of the state is –
(a) Public opinion
(b) Religion
(c) Morality
(d) All of the above
Answer:
(d) All of the above
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Very Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
Define a state according to Aristotle.
Answer:
According to Aristotle, “State is an organisation of families and villages. Its objective is to establish a complete and self – reliant life, which means a happy and respectful life”.
Question 2.
Mention three objectives of a state according to Adam Smith.
Answer:
- Protection of state from foreign attacks or internal violence.
- Protection of an individual from injustice and torture by other members.
- Performing various functions, and construction and maintenance of different public institutions.
Question 3.
Define the purpose of a state according to Girdis.
Answer:
According to Girdis, the purpose of a state is to maintain such an atmosphere, wherein all people can lead a supreme and self – reliant life.
Question 4.
Write the objective of a state, according to Gamer.
Answer:
According to Garner, the objective of the state is to perform the welfare of an individual, to perform the welfare of the nation and the development of human civilization.
Question 5.
What are the views of fascists regarding a state?
Answer:
Regarding a state, fascists believe that, “every thing is for a state, and nothing is against the state”.
Question 6.
What is the concept of individualist thinkers in context to a state?
Answer:
In the context to a state, individualist thinkers do not regard a state as an accomplishment.
Question 7.
Mention the names of two thinkers who regard a state as a necessary evil.
Answer:
- J.S. Mill
- Herbert Spencer.
Question 8.
A person’s welfare is embedded in the end of state’s governance. This symbolises which line of thoughts ?
Answer:
Related to Anarchy.
Question 9.
State is an unnecessary, unwanted and unnatural institution. This is related to which political thought ?
Answer:
Related to Anarchy.
Question 10.
Which scholar said, “State is a means and also an accomplishment”?
Answer:
Bluntschli.
Question 11.
Mention two compulsory functions of a modem state.
Answer:
- Security of the country from foreign attacks.
- To establish cordial relations with foreign countries.
Question 12.
Mention any two functions of a modem state.
Answer:
- Arrangement of education
- Arrangement of cleanliness and public health.
Question 13.
What is the objective of non-interfering doctrine?
Answer:
To restrict the scope of the state.
Question 14.
What is the meaning of doctrine of non – interference ?
Answer:
One should be allowed to work in accordance with his will because a person is the best guardian of his personal interests. This accepts the sovereignty of an individual and is in favour of granting maximum liberty to an individual.
Question 15.
What is the basic rule of Laissez – faire principle?
Answer:
The bottom line of laissez faire principle is that an individual is not for a state, instead, a state is for an individual.
Question 16.
Who are the main proponents of the principle of non-interference?
Answer:
- Bentham
- James Mill
Question 17.
What was the initial objective of individualism?
Answer:
To oppose the intervention of a state in economic field.
Question 18.
Who are the founders of individualism in the form of political thought?
Answer:
- Bentham
- James Mill
- Spencer
Question 19.
What is the principle of James Mill in context to individualism?
Answer:
James Mill’s principle is that if a state interferes the least in people’s matters, it can provide maximum happiness to them.
Question 20.
Mention any two basic principles of a non – interfering state.
Answer:
- State is a necessary evil
- Full liberty to an individual
Question 21.
‘Minimum administration and maximum freedom’ – This is a symbol of which thought ?
Answer:
The principle of non – interference.
Question 22.
Why do non – interventionists regard a state as a necessary evil?
Answer:
Because a person s all round development gets impeded by the intervention of the state in his freedoms.
Question 23.
The government with minimum administration is the best. Who said this?
Answer:
Freeman.
Question 24.
Write the names of two scholars who have come out with economic arguments in support of a non-interfering state.
Answer:
- Adam Smith.
- Malthus.
Question 25.
What are the economic arguments given in support of a non-interfering state (non-interventionist state)?
Answer:
- Every individual is well conversant with his loss – profit
- For economic development, a state should not intervene in economic sector
- With the intervention of a state, a person’s spirit and motivation gets deflated
Question 26.
What is the moral argument of non-interventionists in support of individualism ?
Answer:
Non – interventionists put this moral argument in support of individualism that every person has his distinct personality and so it is the duty of the state that every person should be allowed to develop his ‘being’ as per his own choice.
Question 27.
Mention any two arguments in opposition to non-interventionist state.
Answer:
- A person is not always the best judge of his interests.
- A state is a welfare institution.
Question 28.
Which doctrines of present period are a sophisticated form of non – interventionist state?
Answer:
- Liberalism
- Privatisation
- Universalismd (Globalisation).
Question 29.
Mention a definition of public welfare state.
Answer:
According to Dr. Abrahim, “Welfare state:
operation of its economic system is done with the objective of optimum distribution of goods beyond its income.”
Question 30.
Mention a modern principle of scope of a state.
Answer:
Concept of public welfare state.
Question 31.
The concept of public welfare state is a amalgamation of which elements ?
Answer:
Amalgamation of individualism and socialism.
Question 32.
Mention one objective of public welfare state.
Answer:
To ensure freedom of an individual by expanding the scope of a state.
Question 33.
Which country has contributed mainly in the development of the concept of public welfare state?
Answer:
England.
Question 34.
The philosophy of welfare state has been included in the utilitarian philosophy of which scholars ?
Answer:
- Bentham
- J.S. Mill
Question 35.
In the development of the concept of welfare state, fabian social philosophers of which country explicitly contributed?
Answer:
England.
Question 36.
Who is the main proponent of public welfare state ?
Answer:
Harold Laski.
Question 37.
Mention any two reasons for the advent of concept of public welfare state.
Answer:
- Reaction against individualism
- Fear of the influence of Marxist communism.
Question 38.
According to Gamer, what is the purpose of a public welfare state?
Answer:
According to Garner, “The purpose of public welfare state is to develop national life, nationality and immaterial and moral factors of a person’s life.”
Question 39.
Which type of state creates such circumstances wherein all-round development of an individual is possible in a healthy way?
Answer:
Public welfare state.
Question 40.
Mention two features (characteristics) of a public welfare state.
Answer:
- Arrangement of democratic system of governance
- Spirit of international cooperation.
Question 41.
How does a public welfare state ensure economic justice?
Answer:
A public welfare state endeavors to eliminate prevalent social and economic disparities by way of imposing higher taxes on the rich class of the society.
Question 42.
Which state does the work of forming coordination between individualism and socialism?
Answer:
Public welfare state.
Question 43.
Into how many parts can the functions of a public welfare state be divided?
Answer:
- Compulsory functions
- Optional functions.
Question 44.
Mention any two optional functions of a public welfare state.
Answer:
- Social reforms
- Healthcare.
Question 45.
What is the duty of a state?
Answer:
To provide all those facilities to its citizens through which there can be welfare and growth of the people.
Question 46.
Mention any two points of criticism of a public welfare state.
Answer:
- Restriction on liberty of an individual
- Use of compulsive power of state.
Question 47.
Which Indian thinker criticized the state?
Answer:
Mahatma Gandhi.
Question 48.
Why did Gandhiji criticise the state?
Answer:
Gandhiji believed that a state does not fulfil any moral objective, and it is a symbol of organised violence.
Question 49.
Which are the three models of Gandhiji in respect to ideal political system?
Answer:
- Stateless society
- Decentralised village self – rule
- Non – violent democracy.
Question 50.
Which thought envisages the existence of self-reliant villages ?
Answer:
Gandhian thought.
Question 51.
What did Gandhiji envisage in the form of provisional political ideal?
Answer:
Non – violent democracy.
Question 52.
What is the motto of political philosophy of Gandhiji?
Answer:
To ensure completeness of human life.
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
Explain the compulsory functions of a state.
Answer:
Compulsory functions of a state:
The compulsory functions of the state refer to those functions, which are quite mandatory for the government. That is, to say that the very existence of a state may be threatened if these functions are not performed.
Following are the compulsory functions of a state:
- Protection of the country from foreign attacks.
- To maintain internal peace and order.
- Formation of crime and punishment – related rules, and proper management and system for delivery of justice.
- Formation of laws, because a state can truly express its sovereignty through laws only.
- Collection of revenue.
Question 2.
Mention any four optional functions of a modem state.
Answer:
Optional functions of a modern state:
The following are main four optional functions of a modern state:
1. Arrangement for education:
In a good state, public should have proper access to education and political awareness. Therefore, it is the duty of a state that it should make proper management for education of the general public.
2. Cleanliness and public health:
A state should make arrangement for prevention of diseases and for dispensaries. In the context of good health, state should monitor the purity of eatables.
3. Control on business and industries:
A state should have sufficient control on business and industries so that the businessmen get maximum benefit and the country can progress. While formulating policies as regards to industry, a state should take care that there is no injustice to the workers.
4. To provide facilities for entertainment:
A state should make arrangement for the entertainment of the people by way of opening parks, television centers, cinema halls, reading rooms, etc.
Question 3.
Mention in brief the non – interventionist thought relating to scope of a state.
Answer:
Non – interfering thought or Non – interfering policy of thought with regard to scope of a state:
Non – interventionism means – A person should be allowed to work in accordance with his choice or wish because he is the best guardian of his interests. This accepts primacy of an individual and supports granting optimum liberty to an individual. The objective of non – interventionist doctrine is to restrict the scope of a state. This principle is also called policy of non – intervention or non – interference. This principle provides maximum importance to an individual.
The fundamental idea of this principle is “an individual is not for a state, instead, a state is for an individual.” The mission of a state or other institutions is the development of an individual and it is not the duty of an individual to serve the state. A state should provide maximum freedom to an individual and should interfere the least into his activities. In political philosophy, this thought is a gift of the 19th century. First of all, this thought was propagated by Bentham and James Mill. Its full expression and explanation was done by John Stuart and Herbert Spencer.
Question 4.
Explain in brief the development of non – interventionist individualism.
Answer:
The development of non – interventionist individualism:
The sequence of development of non – interventionist individualism is as follows:
- The seeds of non – interventionist individualism are also found in sophist thinkers of Greece. They have put an individual above the state.
- According to epicurean philosophers, there is no existence of a state without an individual’s self – interests.
- As a result of industrial revolution in the 18th century, there developed individualism in the economic field. Many economists such as Thomas Malthus, Ricardo, Adam Smith, etc. propagated the concept that a state should not interfere in economic field.
- In modern times, in political philosophy, individualism is the gift of the 19th century. First of all, Bentham and James Mill propagated it. Its full expression is found in the creations of John Stuart Mill and Herbert Spencer in the mid 19th century.
Question 5.
Mention any two arguments in support of a non – interventionist state.
Answer:
Arguments in support of non – interventionist state:
The following are two main arguments in support of non – interventionist state:
1. Scientific argument:
Scientist Herbert Spencer, supported the doctrine / principle of non – interventionism by deriving new convention from life sciences. According to him, those who are able and capable will move forward in life, and those who are incapable and weak will get eliminated. It is the rule of nature and it should be enforced in the society as well. This can be applied in the society only when all the people are left independent. According to this principle, every individual should be given liberty by the state to ensure his development.
2. Economic argument:
According to economists such as Adam Smith, Thomson, Malthus and Mill, etc. every person has absolute understanding of his loss and gain. A state should not have control in economic field for the sake of economic development because with the intervention of a state, the joy and motivation of an individual gets hampered. And as such, government should follow the policy of non-intervention in business sector.
Question 6.
Explain the importance of non – interventionist state.
Answer:
Importance of non – interventionist state:
As a political philosophy, non – interventionism is the gift of the 19th century. First of all, Bentham and James Mill propagated it. Importance of non – interventionist state is presented below in the form of various important points:
- In order to lessen the unnecessary intervention of a state, non-interventionist thought has played an important role.
- The concept of liberalism, privatisation and globalization that have developed in modern period, are sophisticated forms of non – interventionist state.
- The principle that, an individual is an accomplishment and state is a means, will keep on showing the way to all democratic countries.
- As a result of the principle of non – interventionism of state, the socialist and communist doctrines emerged, and today, individualism has become a subject of history.
Question 7.
Mention the concept of public welfare state.
Answer:
The concept of public welfare state:
This is a modern principle of scope of state. This word is especially used to denote such a state which is not contented by merely making arrangements with regard to justice, security and internal system for its citizens, but it also makes all efforts in the direction of making improvements in all the attributes of life for their well – being.
The concept of public welfare state is an amalgamation of individualism and socialism. It does not abduct the freedom of an individual like socialism and resolves or dispose off maximum state activities like individualism. The main objective, which works in the back of public welfare state, is to improvise happiness and prosperity of an individual, and for this objective, a state should perform necessary service – related activities.
In the development of the concept of public welfare state, the contribution from England has been remarkable. Political thinkers such as J.S. Mill and Bentham have included the philosophy of a welfare state in utilitarian doctrine.
In the times of Queen Elizabeth I of England, the advent of ‘Rule of poor’ was intended to benefit those who were poor and physically impaired. The spirit of public welfare was embedded in it.
The fabian socialist philosophers of England candidly contributed in the development of the concept of welfare state. The labour party government of England adopted and implemented many progressive policies by nationalization of industries. In moden period, Prof. Harold Laski is thought to be the leading thinker who have propounded the concept of a welfare state.
Question 8.
Mention any two reasons for the advent of concept of public welfare state.
Answer:
The reasons for the advent of the concept of public welfare state:
The following are the reasons for the advent of the concept of public welfare state:
1. Reaction against Individualism:
According to the principle of individualism, the scope of a state was restricted and the state adopted the policy of non – interventionism. As a result, the condition of working class became very pitiable in the era of industrial revolution. They were exploited mercilessly. The principle of public welfare state emerged as a reaction against this.
2. Fear of the influence of marxist communism:
With the publication of “Communist Manifesto” in 1848, there happened a communist revolution in Russia in 1917, which consolidated the ideology of Karl Marx. In order to check the spread of communism, western countries started to inculcate radical changes in capitalist democratic system. As a result, there developed the concept of public welfare.
Question 9.
Explain the main purpose of public welfare state.
Answer:
Main objectives of public welfare state:
Public welfare state is the state, which apart from performing general tasks, also performs additional welfare activities, such as to eliminate unemployment, make insurance schemes, provides pension to elderly persons, and making other security – related provisions.
- The objective of a public welfare state is to make possible the use of real liberty by its citizens.
- To ensure liberties of an individual by widening the scope of the state.
- To provide all basic amenities to its citizens.
- Planning for welfare of all classes of its people.
- To accomplish social obligations, etc.
Question 10.
Mention two features of a public welfare state.
Answer:
Characteristics of a public welfare state:
Two main features of a public welfare state are as follows:
1. Social justice:
A public welfare state, while eliminating many social evils, addictions, blind faiths, etc. makes endeavours to bring socially backward and under – privileged classes into the mainstream. In fact, welfare state is a social servce state. Besides removing illiteracy and poverty it makes arrangement for construction of roads, drinking water, houses, gardens, hospitals, reading rooms, etc. for its people.
2. Spirit of international cooperation:
Besides having a spirit of national cooperation, a welfare state also has a spirit of international cooperation. It is necessary for the retainment of sources of national public welfare that international interests should be taken care of besides the sources of national interest.
Question 11.
Mention any four optional functions of a public welfare state.
Answer:
Optional functions of a public welfare state:
Optional functions are those which are performed by the state for the welfare of its people The four optional functions of a public welfare state are as follows:
1. Optional functions of a public welfare state:
It is the responsibility of a public welfare state that is should provide education to its citizens. For this, it should arrange for primary education, and women and adult education. State should also arrange for libraries and reading rooms.
2. Social reforms:
A public welfare state should try to eliminate social evils such as consumption of alcohol, child marriage, untouchability, caste system etc.
3. Regulation of labour:
A public welfare state is also involved in improving the condition of the labour class and helping them by arrangement of proper wages, pension, healthcare, insurance and education, help in times of distress, etc.
4. Work related to family planning:
A welfare state should try to control population, so that the standard of life of the present population can be improved. It order to widen the scope of family planning programme, the state should ensure its reach to common people.
Question 12.
Mention two bases of criticism of public welfare state.
Answer:
Bases of criticism of public welfare state:
In regards to criticism of a public welfare state, following are the two bases:
1. Murder of personal freedom:
By the system adopted in a public welfare state, liberty of an individual is compromised. It perfoms works only under its control and guidance. As a result, powers of the state increase, and liberty of an individual gets restricted.
2. Strength of the bureaucracy:
In a public welfare state, most of the works are done by bureaucracy. On account of widening of works and responsibilites of the government, the structure of administration gets widened and the power of administration gets centralised in the hands of government officials. And as such, there develops a fear of bureaucracy becoming corrupt and making various plans of public welfare ineffective for their selfish motives.
Question 13.
Clarify the state-related concept of Gandhism.
Answer:
State – related concept of Gandhism:
Mahatma Gandhi was a great freedom fighter and political thinker of India. His state – related thoughts are known as Gandhism. According to Gandhiji, a state does not accomplish any moral purpose, and in fact, it is a symbol of organised violence. It murders the soul of an individual by oppressive powers. Hence, a state is not only an evil, but it is unnecessary also.
According to Gandhiji, a state restricts free awareness of an individual by obstructive control. State’s power of sovereignty is another name of violence and Gandhiji opposed all sorts of violence. According to him, to name or define as laws the state orders based on organised violence ‘is in fact’ to belittle the eternal importance of truth and non-violence. Though Gandhiji was anti – state, he accepted that to end the state immediately is not possible. Apart from this, Gandhiji envisaged the reformist ideal of decentralised village self governance and non – violent democracy.
Question 14.
In the context of ideal political system, clarify the ideal system model of Gandhiji.
Answer:
In respect to ideal political system, the ideal system model of Gandhiji is stateless society or Ramrajya (Utopia). Gandhiji made it clear that the envisaged Ramrajya is not synonymous to ‘Hindu state’. Instead, it is a hint towards a sacred system wherein any foreign control on the soul (conscience) of an individual will be eliminated. Gandhiji named this system ‘enlightened anarchy.’
It is the convention of Gandhiji that when an individual adopts ideal of non-violence in his life in a holistic way and dedicates self for the cause of supreme truth, (then) his awakened soul and appropriate rationale will control his entire range of behaviour with moral, impact so that there would be no need of any external control on his being.
In this situation, an individual becomes a ruler of his self. Gandhiji also believed that it is almost impossible to obtain this type of political ideal because after adopting the human body, an individual is not able to fully imbibe the ideal of non – violence in his life.
Question 15.
Clarify Gandhiji’s decentralised village self – governance model.
Answer:
While clarifying the concept of decentralised village self – rule, Gandhiji says that the centralisation of political power is synonymous to violence. He states that a decentralised political system can be regarded in accordance with the ideal of non – violence. Gandhiji emphasized for a village to be made a political unit. This arrangement does not mean that the (such) village will not have any relation with other villages.
These autonomous, self – governed and self – reliant villages will seek help from other villages for their necessities which are beyond the management of a village, and of course, they will do it with cooperation, and similarly, these will also remain ready to help other villages if they are in need. That is to say, that the unmanageable things will be resolved with mutual help and cooperation.
In the form of national state, the country will be a union of free republics. Every village will be orgainised as per the wishes of its residents. Village will hold election for representatives of district administration. In this election, every village will have one vote. District representative will elect provincial administration and provincial representation will elect the president who will be the main executive of the nation.
Gandhiji felt that the implementation of planning of decentralised village self – governance is a cumbersome process, hence, he, in the form of provisional political ideal, envisaged a non – violent demorcacy.
Question 16.
Clarify the concept of‘non – violent democracy of Gandhiji.
Answer:
Gandhiji believed in non – violence. He wanted to form democracy in the country based on non-violence. According to him, decentralization, truth and non – violence will be administrative directives in non – violent democracy. Non-violent democracy is not a goal in itself, instead, it is the first step for achieving ultimate the political destination. He accepts that he cannot envisage the states to be passively non – violent.
In non – violent democracy, a state, by means of propagation of non-violence in the life of its people, will endeavour to minimize the use of force. In this situation, a state will need army and police, which will work in the form of servants of the people. They will be trained by the state for developing a non – violent attitude. During peacetime, these will be engaged social service and welfare activities.
RBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 6 Essay Types Questions
Question 1.
Describe different political outlooks relating the scope of a state.
Answer:
Different political outlooks related to the scope of a state: There are many political outlooks presented in respect of the scope of a state. Some political outlooks grant a state absolute powers and think an individual to be under it in an inclusive way. Yet other political outlooks limit the scope of the state and advocate maximum autonomy to an individual.
The following are the different outlooks related to scope of a state:
1. A state, in itself, is an accomplishment, and individual a means:
Some scholars regard state as an accomplishment. Many scholars, namely, Plato, Aristotle, Hegel, Bosanke, etc. regard a state as the apex goal of human life and an accomplishment in itself. According to Plato and Aristotle, society and state is a great moral institution whose purpose is to develop an individual morally. According to Plato, States are not born out of trees or rocks, they are born out of the character of those persons who live in them. According to Aristotle, state is a person and it is our duty to worship it reverently.
At the same time, Hegel regards the state as an accomplishment and an incarnation of God on the earth. These thinkers who regard the state as an accomplishment, have merged the will of a state with an individual’s will. The result of this principle is fascism. Fascist thinkers regard that everything is for a state and nothing is against the state. In this way, idealist and totalitarian thinkers deem a state an accomplishment.
2. State is an accomplishment of an individual:
Thinkers who regard state as a means, consider the state to be a means for fulfilling the interests of the individual. As per their convention, all institutions are for the welfare and prosperity of an individual and not an individual for these institutions. The sole aim of a state is to do good for its people. Individualist, anarchist and pluralist thinkers regard the state as a means.
Individualist thinkers, though accept the existence of a state, yet they do not regard the state as an accomplishment. J.S. Mill and Herbert Spencer assume a state to be a necessary evil. They want the state’s work to be confined to police works. Anarchists believe that the welfare of an individual lies in the end of governance of a state. For them, state is an unnecessary, irrational and unnatural institution. Pluralist thinkers regard a state as a community akin to other communities.
3. State is both an accomplishment and a means:
According to Bluntness, a state is a means as well as an accomplishment. On one hand, it is an institution to serve the interests of people, while on the other hand, it is also an accomplishment because happiness of an individual is dependent on the existence of the state for his own good.
Question 2.
Describe in detail the functions of a modem state.
Answer:
Functions of a modern state:
For the functions of states, definite rules cannot be formed. The range of functions of a state keeps on changing in accordance with time, circumstances, line of thought and necessities. The functions of a state are dependent on the development of economic resources, awareness of people and political awareness. The functions of a modern state can be classified into two parts:
(1) Compulsory functions.
(2) Optional functions.
1. Compulsory functions:
Compulsory functions imply those functions, which ought to be performed necessarily by the government. That is, if these functions are not per formed, the very existence of a state may fall in danger. The following are the compulsory functions of a state:
- Security of the country from foreign attacks.
- Maintenance of internal peace and order.
- Formation of crime and punishment-related rules, and management and system of delivery of justice.
- Formation of laws, because by laws alone, can a state transform its sovereignty into a factual form.
- To collect revenue.
2. Optional functions:
Optional functions imply those functions which are not mandatory for the existence of the state, or the liberty and security of an individual. These keep on changing in accordance with country, time and circumstances. These functions are known by the name of public welfare functions. The following are the optional functions of a state :
(1) Education system:
General public should be provided education and political awareness in a good state. Therefore, it is the duty of a state that a proper system is made to educate its people.
(2) Cleanliness and public health:
For the remedy from diseases, a state should open hospitals. It should also check the purity of eatables in the light of ensuring good health of its people.
(3) Control on business and industry:
A state should have appropriate control on business and industries, so that there is well – being of businessmen and progress of the country. While formulating industry-related rules, the state should ensure that there is no injustice done towards the workers.
(4) Operation of industries of public interest:
A state should operate large – scale ‘ industries and business houses of public importance in social interest.
(5) Social reforms:
It is the duty of a state that all its people make all – round development, by eliminating social evils. It is also the duty of a state to provide proper security and treatment to the handicapped, blind, the deaf, the mentally disabled, etc.
(6) Management of public transport:
Arrangement of public transport is also the duty of a state. The arrangement of roads, train, bus, maritime and air modes of travel should be made by the state because civilization and culture develop only by means of transportation.
(7) Facility of entertainment:
The state should make arrangement of parks, TV, center, cinema halls and reading rooms, etc. for the entertainment of its citizens.
Question 3.
Mention / present arguments in support of and against a non – interventionist state.
Answer:
Arguments in support of and against a non – interventionist state:
The following arguments may be presented in support of non – interventionist state:
1. Scientific argument:
Herbert Spencer, while invoking the concepts of life sciences, supports non-interventionism. According to him, in the struggle of life, people who are able move ahead and those who are incapable and weak get eliminated. It is a rule of nature and it should be applied to the society. And this can be applied in the society only when an individual is left independent. According to this principle, a state should provide opportunity to every individual to develop or his own according to his discretion.
2. Economic argument:
According to the economists, such as Adam Smith, Thomas Malthus, Ricardo and Mill, etc. every individual understands in a perfect way his loss and profit. For economic development, there should be no control of a state in economic field. With the intervention of a state, zeal and motivation of an individual gets weakened, therefore, government should adopt the policy of non – interventionism in industry and business field.
3. Moral argument:
It is the moral argument in support of individualism that every individual has his own personality and distinct characteristics. Hence, it is the responsibility of the state to allow every individual to develop in his own way.
4. Practical argument:
Workforce and expertise of a state is not better than individual workforce and expertise, and hence, benefit should be drawn by the development of expertise of an individual.
Argument against non – interventionist state:
The following arguments can be presented against a non – interventionist state:
1. State is a welfare institution:
All the countries have made development through a state. Today, states are undertaking various activities in various fields for the welfare of their people. In this situation, a state seems to be a welfare institution instead of being an evil.
2. State and freedom are not mutually opposite:
Those who believe in the concept of non-interventionism, think that state and freedom are mutually contrary. But it is an accepted principle that the purpose of the state is to establish coordination between different people and classes for their interests, so that society as a whole moves ahead on the path of progress.
3. An individual is not always the best judge of his interests:
An individual cannot always understand properly his interests and also he does not have the capability of understanding what is right and what is wrong for him. Hence, the state should pay heed to his well-being .
4. Reform of a state is possible:
Because of widening of scope of a state, it gets infested with certain evils, such as imperfect, prodigal, corrupt bureaucratic system and also dominance of bureaucracy. But these evils can be eradicated and necessary reforms can be made. On several instances, a state renders welfare works despite suffering losses.
5. Defective concept of living science:
The logical individualistic concepts of life science cannot be applied to people. A man, contrary to an animal, is a living being who understands human responsibilities and moral duties. It is his duty to serve and help those who are weak and helpless.
Question 4.
What is a welfare state? Mention the main causes for the advent of the concept of a public welfare state.
Answer:
Meaning of public welfare state:
Public welfare state is a state, which besides rendering general functions, also performs additional public welfare activities, such as elimination of unemployment, insurance planning, pension to the elderly, and to provide security.
Different political thinkers have defined public welfare state in different ways, As – According to Garner, “The sole purpose of a public welfare state is to develop national life, nationality and physical, immateriality and moral attributes of life.” According to Jawaharlal Nehru, “The fundamental basis of public welfare state is to arrange for equal opportunity, removal of disparity between the poor and the rich and to increase the standard of living.”
Main causes for the advent of the concept of public welfare state:
The following are the main causes for the emergence of the concept of public welfare state:
1. Reaction against individualism: Public welfare state emerged as a reaction against ideal individualism. According to the principle of individualism, the scope of the state was restricted and the state adopted the policy of non-interference, and because of this, the condition of labourers became very pitiable in the period of industrial revolution, and they were subjected to exploitation.
The factory owners forced them to work at less wages. The state did not interfere in these matters. As a result, their condition become very miserable and there emerged opposition to individualistic thought. First of all, England formed laws for the welfare of the labour class, and as such, the concept of public welfare state emerged.
2. Fear of the influence of Marxist communism:
After the publication of ‘the communist Manifesto’ in 1848, communist revolution took place in Soviet Russia in 1917, providing a consolidated basis to the doctrine of Marx. In order to stop the spread of communism, western countries introduced certain radical changes in the capitalist democratic system. As a result, there emerged the concept of public welfare state.
3. Emergence and development of the concept of democratic socialism:
The supporters of Marxist communism tried to bring changes in the society by adopting means of violence and revolution, and there developed the concept of democratic socialism by their efforts. This very concept of democratic socialism wanted to bring changes in the society by peaceful and legitimate means. The propounders of this principle regarded state as a public welfare institution. This concept of theirs wanted to establish socialism with the help of a welfare state.
Question 5.
Perform a critical evaluation of the public welfare state.
Answer:
Public welfare state:
The concept of a public welfare state is the modern principle of the scope of a state. This concept is a blend of individualism and socialism. The bottom line behind the concept of public welfare state is to make one’s life happy and prosperous. And for that, a state should plan and perform certain activities of public service. There has been an important contribution of England in the development of the concept of public welfare state.
Criticism of public welfare state:
Criticism of the public welfare state can be done on the following bases:
1. Restriction on liberty of an individual: In the system of public welfare state, the assassination of liberty of an individual takes place. The state does many works under its control. In this situation, the power of the state increases and the freedom of an individual declines. Due to the rise in coercive powers of a state, the liberty of an individual declines in the same proportion.
2. Use of obstructive powers of the state:
Scholars who criticize public welfare state have the conviction that in a welfare state, money / taxes are collected from rich class by unique obstructive means in order to establish equality in the society, which is not right.
3. Excessive intervention of bureaucracy:
In a public welfare state, most of the works are done by bureaucracy. A bureaucracy is a specific organisation of experts, qualified and dutiful officials, wherein a system of hierarchy and obedience is strictly complied with. Due to increase in the functions and responsibilities of the state, the structure of government becomes vast.
Administrative powers get centralised in the hands of government officials and thereby the danger of bureaucracy becoming autocratic is there. Many public welfare schemes are made ineffective due to certain selfish interests of bureaucracy.
4. Extravagant administration:
A public welfare state is expensive. Besides, all the works are executed by the government. As a result, as the functional range of administration tightens, the inputs and inflation also increase proportionately.
5. Lack of motivation:
Services provided by public welfare state reach the entire population. In this, those people are also included, who are capable of resolving their problems on their own. Some of the people are also there who do not feel any need for self reliance and as such they get dependent on the state.
6. Decline in production:
In a public welfare state, many works for the benefit of the people are done, and for this, the government has to impose taxes on the rich. By this, the rich people get demotivated and as such they get discouraged towards production and growth.
7. Emergence of holistic nature:
In public welfare state, certain totalitarian powers do emerge at the back of democracy. Such state gives motivation to state-ism and establishes the administration of anarchic autocratic state.