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Showing posts with label CLASS 11 POLITICAL THEORY. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CLASS 11 POLITICAL THEORY. Show all posts

Friday, October 5, 2018

Development
October 05, 2018

Development

                                               Development 

Introduction
Development means progress, achievement and well being for a better society. but the question which comes up is development for whom? Building dams for generating electricity is development for you and for rich people because they will get continuous supply of electricity by which they can do their household chores. but building dams is not development for tribals because their land gets seized and they have to move to other place. also building dams causes environmental damage which kill fish and damage soil fertility. so the question is what is development? and development is meant for whom?
what is development?
development conveys the ideas of improvement, progress, well being and aspiration for a better society.
development is defined in narrower terms also like increasing growth rate or modernising the society. Modernising the society means having dams, opening industries , having many brands etc.
but development has a broader meaning as well. there needs to be improvement in the lives of people. Poverty needs to be reduced, health of people needs to be improved and employment oppurtunities need to be given.
Concept of Development 
development concept emerged after the second half of twentieth century(post 1950s). it emerged then because countries in asia and africa got independence. These countries were under colonial rule so the rulers used their resources for their own self interest rather than interest of people.
asian and african people at the time of independence did not even have a basic necessities of life. there was poverty, malnourishment, unemployment, illiteracy, and lack of sanitation etc.
the concept of development has been changed over the years. in the initial years, focus was on economic growth and modernisation of societies. so developing countries adopted development model like faster economic growth through industrialisation, modernisation of agriculture by bringing latest technology, and extending modern education. also initially development goals were limited because countries recently got independence and they were not having enough resources to develop.
India adopted five years plans for development. they build mega projects like bhakra nangal dam, steel plants, mining , fertiliser production, and improving agricultural techniques.  they hoped that this model of development will have 'trickle down' effect. and reduce the inequalities. investment was made in science and technology. new educational institutes were build up like IIT. but this did not provide much development to lower sections of society. this created a larger gap between rich and poor. this model of development has been criticised. next we will read criticisms about this model of development. before that let's attempt questions.
Q&A
Q1. what is development?
A1. development is defined as  the ideas of improvement, progress, well being and aspiration for a better society.
Q2. Is development defined in terms of economic growth?
A2. development defined in terms of economic growth is a narrow definition. broad definition of development includes needs to be improvement in the lives of people. Poverty needs to be reduced, health of people needs to be improved and employment oppurtunities need to be given.
Q3. what model of development was adopted in india?
A3. india adopted five years plans for development. they build mega projects like bhakra nangal dam, steel plants, mining , fertiliser production, and improving agricultural techniques.  they hoped that this model of development will have 'trickle down' effect. and reduce the inequalities. investment was made in science and technology. new educational institutes were build up like IIT.
Q4.  why were asian and african countries underdeveloped?

A4. asian and african countries were under colonial rule so the rulers used their resources for their own self interest rather than interest of people. So, at the time of independence didnot even have a basic necessities of life. there was poverty, malnourishment, unemployment, illiteracy, and lack of sanitation etc.  
Q5. Which development model India adopted?
A5.  Five year plans
Criticisms of development model
Development model has been criticised. Financial costs have been enormous and this has put many countries into debt. African and asian countries have borrowed enormously and this has led to large loans on them.
Social costs of development
Development such as building dams, steel plants and industrial activities has led to large scale displacement. This has resulted in loss of livelihood, and increase in impoverishment. Since they have been displaced from their traditional land so they migrate to urban areas where they donot have any employment because they are not educated and skilled enough and they then lead their lives in poverty. Their culture is also lost as their community life gets destroyed and people move to different areas.
But poor people have not accepted their fate. You may have heard of narmada bachao andolan where medha patkar is leading a movement against sardar sarovar dam on narmada river. The movement says that development of big dams has caused submergence of their land and over 1 million lives have been displaced. It has also disturbed the ecological balance as the soil has lost its fertility and land has become more prone to earthquakes.
Environmental costs
Development has caused huge environmental damage. Pollution has increased due to building of factories. Global warming has taken place. This has also caused hole in ozone layer. Melting of glaciers is also taking place. Rivers have dried up and forests have been lost.
When we talk about environmental costs, it becomes important to talk about a brave fighter who laid his life to save his environment. His name is Ken Saro Wiwa.
Ken saro wiwa is a nigerian and belonged to ogoni caste. Nigeria is rich in oil resources. Many multi national companies set up their exploration shops there and started exploring oil. Exploration of oil polluted water and air. And this caused great disturbance to local people living there. People got polluted water to drink and polluted air to breathe. So ken saro wiwa led a non violent struggle for its right to clean drinking water and right to breathe unpolluted air. The movement was called movement for the survival of ogoni people (MOSOP). The movement was effective to such an extent that all the companies have to pull out. Military rulers of Nigeria framed him in murder case and sentenced him to death.
Besides, the social and environmental costs of development, there have been some success rate for example it has led to increasing rate of economic growth. Income of people has been increased and consumption of goods has gone up. But, it has also caused huge gap between rich and poor. There is no fair distribution of goods. Rich have become richer and poor have become poorer. Quality of life of people has not improved. They do not have basic minimum necessities of life. Like food, education, health and shelter. This is called basic needs approach. These are necessary for leading a dignified life.
UNDP united nations of development programme has come out with human development index(HDI). This is the human development report that ranks countries on the basis of performance in social indicators like literacy and education levels, life expectancy and maternal mortality rates. This measure is called human development index.
Q&A
Q1. What are the environmental costs of development?
A1. Development has caused huge environmental damage. Pollution has increased due to building of factories. Global warming has taken place. This has also caused hole in ozone layer. Melting of glaciers is also taking place. Rivers have dried up and forests have been lost. 
Q2. What are the social costs of development?
A2. Development such as building dams, steel plants and industrial activities has led to huge social costs. It has caused large scale displacement. This has resulted in loss of livelihood, and increase in impoverishment. Since they have been displaced from their traditional land so they migrate to urban areas where they donot have any employment because they are not educated and skilled enough and they then lead their lives in poverty. Their culture is also lost as their community life gets destroyed and people move to different areas. 
Q3. Write about ken saro wiwa's struggle.
A3. Ken saro wiwa is a nigerian and belonged to ogoni caste. Nigeria is rich in oil resources. Many multi national companies set up their exploration shops there and started exploring oil. Exploration of oil polluted water and air. And this caused great disturbance to local people living there. People got polluted water to drink and polluted air to breathe. So ken saro wiwa led a non violent struggle for its right to clean drinking water and right to breathe unpolluted air. The movement was called movement for the survival of ogoni people (MOSOP). The movement was effective to such an extent that all the companies have to pull out. Military rulers of Nigeria framed him in murder case and sentenced him to death.
Q4. What are the criticisms of development? 
A4. Social costs of development
Development such as building dams, steel plants and industrial activities has led to large scale displacement. This has resulted in loss of livelihood, and increase in impoverishment. Since they have been displaced from their traditional land so they migrate to urban areas where they do not have any employment because they are not educated and skilled enough and they then lead their lives in poverty. Their culture is also lost as their community life gets destroyed and people move to different areas. 
Environmental costs
Development has caused huge environmental damage. Pollution has increased due to building of factories. Global warming has taken place. This has also caused hole in ozone layer. Melting of glaciers is also taking place. Rivers have dried up and forests have been lost. 
Besides, the social and environmental costs of development, there have been some success rate for example it has led to increasing rate of economic growth. Income of people has been increased and consumption of goods has gone up. But, it has also caused huge gap between rich and poor. There is no fair distribution of goods. Rich have become richer and poor have become poorer. Quality of life of people has not improved. They do not have basic minimum necessities of life. Like food, education, health and shelter. This is called basic needs approach. This is necessary for leading a dignified life.
Q5. What is human development index?
A5. It is the human development report that ranks countries on the basis of performance in social indicators like literacy and education levels, life expectancy and maternal mortality rates. This measure is called human development index.     
Alternative conceptions of development
Till now the development model adopted in most countries have been top down. It means that development policy was decided by higher levels of political leadership and bureaucracy. Local people were not consulted. Bureaucrats sitting in AC rooms drafted policy for the benefit of people. But these bureaucrats donot have any knowledge about local areas. So without any consultation they drafted the policy. This led to unequitable development. Need is for equitable and sustainable level of development.
Right claims
We have seen that how model of development led to development for some and underdevlopment of another. Remember dam example at the starting of chapter. So the question which arises is development for whom? To whom do natural resources? Does only rich have right for development? So we need fair and equitable development and this is possible in a democracy where different groups compete with each other, negotiate and compromise to come to an equal and fair solution.
 Democratic participation
It is only through discussion and debate that we can formulate policy for the welfare of all. A democracy allows room for negotiation and discussion which is not possible in a dictatorship. A sustainable and equitable development can happen only when local people are consulted and knowledge is shared with them.otherwise, it will be a top down approach where higher level people like bureaucrats and politicians impose on local people.
Development and lifestyle
There is also need to change our lifestyle. Development should not be measured in terms of cellphones, cars or plots a person possesses. But it should also be measured in terms of happiness, harmony and satisfaction of essential needs. We can do rainwater harvesting, build solar and biogas plants . micro hydel projects rather than building huge dams. We also need to reduce our dependence on non renewable resources and build more of trees for a cleaner air.
 Q&A
Q1. What are the alternatives of development model?
A1. Right claims 
When a dam is built, it helps in generation of electricity which is then supplied to households. but building of dam leads to displacement of tribals and loss of livelihood for them. so the question which arises is development for whom? To whom do natural resources? Does only rich have right for development? So we need fair and equitable development and this is possible in a democracy where different groups compete with each other, negotiate and compromise to come to an equal and fair solution.
Democratic participation
It is only through discussion and debate that we can formulate policy for the welfare of all. A democracy allows room for negotiation and discussion which is not possible in a dictatorship. A sustainable and equitable development can happen only when local people are consulted and knowledge is shared with them.otherwise, it will be a top down approach where higher level people like bureaucrats and politicians impose on local people.
Development and lifestyle
There is also need to change our lifestyle. Development should not be measured in terms of cellphones, cars or plots a person possesses. But it should also be measured in terms of happiness, harmony and satisfaction of essential needs. We can do rainwater harvesting, build solar and biogas plants . micro hydel projects rather than building huge dams. We also need to reduce our dependence on non renewable resources and build more of trees for a cleaner air.     
Q2. Why do we need an alternative source of development?
A2. the development model adopted in most countries have been top down. It means that development policy was decided by higher levels of political leadership and bureaucracy. Local people are not consulted. Bureaucrats sitting in AC rooms draft the policy for the benefit of people. But these bureaucrats do not have any knowledge about local areas. So without any consultation they draft the policy and this leads to unequitable development. The need is for an equitable and sustainable level of development. 
Q3. How should we change our lifestyles to protect our environment?
A3. Development should not be measured in terms of cellphones, cars or plots a person possesses. But it should also be measured in terms of happiness, harmony and satisfaction of essential needs. We can do rainwater harvesting, build solar and biogas plants . micro hydel projects rather than building huge dams. We also need to reduce our dependence on non renewable resources and build more of trees for a cleaner air.  

NCERT SOLUTION

Q1. What do you understand by the term development? Would all sections of society benefit from such a definition of development?
Answer:
The concept of development gained importance after the second half of the 20th century. This was the time when a large number of countries in Asia and Africa gained political independence. The term development can be understood better in both the broader and narrower sense.
(a) In a broader sense, development conveys the idea of improvement, progress, well being and aspiration for better life to constitute the vision for society as a whole and how to achieve it.
(b) In a narrower sense, it refers to more limited goals as increasing the rate of economic growth, etc. Benefits to different sections of society
(a) Development has been identified with completing projects like factories, dams, hospitals, national highways rather than to uphold the broader vision of development.
(b) Some sections like industrialists have been benefited while others like up-rooted families and landless people, etc. have lost their homes or lands without any compensatory gain.
(c) Though, issues regarding the benefits and burdens of development either have been justly distributed or not, have been a main  concern for development priorities in a
democratic set-up. The issue has invited lot of debate as to which model should be adopted to serve as a standard by which the development of a country can be examined.

Q2. Discuss some of the social and ecological costs of the kind of development which has been pursued in most countries.
Answer:
1. Social cost of Development:
(a) Displacement resulted in the loss of livelihood and increased impoverishment.
(b) Many have been displaced from their homes and localities due to urbanization and industrialization, etc.
(c) If rural agricultural communities are displaced to end up at the margins of society.
(d) It results in a loss of culture due to loss of community life because traditional skills acquired over a long period are also lost.
(e) Displacement has led to struggles in many countries like Narmada Bachao Andolan against Sardar Sarovar Dam on the river Narmada.
(f) The supporters of this dam claimed to generate electricity, irrigate large areas of land and to provide drinking water to the desert areas of Kutch and Saurashtra whereas the opponents of the dam claim to lose the land through construction by almost one million people.
Ecological costs of development:
(a) Environmental degradation took place, i.e. Tsunami created damage to a greater extent on South and South East Asia coasts in 2005.
(b) Global warming is also taking place due to emissions of greenhouse gases into the environment, i.e. ice melting in Arctic and Antarctic regions has the potential to cause
floods and submerge low lying areas like Bangladesh and Maldives.
(c) The ecological crisis will adversely affect us, like air pollution.
(d) Deforestations also affect the forest resources, i.e. medical herbs, firewood or timber, etc.

Q3. What are some of the new claims for rights which the process of development has generated?
Answer:
(a) In reality, the benefits of development have been concerned by powerful and costs of development have been borne by the poorest and vulnerable section due to ecological
degradation, displacement and loss of livelihood.
(b) Another claim is to have a right to be consulted in decision directly which affects lives of people.
(c) The people can claim if an activity or law sanctioned by the government threatens the lives of the people.
(d) Another issue is regarding rights to natural resources. Can communities claim traditional rights to the use of natural resources? This is  related to tribal and aboriginal communities who have a specific way of community life and relationship to the environment.
(e) Democracies focus to achieve a balance between the claims of present and future.

Q4. What would be the advantages of democracy over other forms of government for ensuring that decisions regarding development are made to promote the
common good?
Answer:
(a) Democracy is the best form of government because the conflicts are resolved through debates with the involvement of formulating the goals of development and in devising way of implementing it.
(b) Democracy makes a clear distinction between a plan made by others and sharing in the formulation of the plans because the others may plan with the best intentions but may be less aware of specific needs and the sharing shows the empowerment in decision making process.
(c) Democracy and development are interrelated to ensure participation and allow local decision making bodies to take decisions about development projects in the local area.
(d) The project may be consulted on the issues to affect the people most and to reject them if it affects adversely to the community.
(e) Direct involvement of people in planning and formulating policies allow people to direct resources towards their needs.
(f) A decentralized approach to development makes it possible to use different types of technologies traditional and modern in a creative manner.

Q5. In your view how successful have popular struggles like been in making the state responsive to the social and environmental costs of development? Discuss with examples.
Answer:
People affected by the government policies have not always accepted their fate passively. They have raised their concerns. This has led to some of the popular struggles we have heard. Popular struggles have got a great success in making state responsible to the social and environmental cost of development.
(a) The concept of ‘development’ gained importance after the second half of 20th century when a large number of countries in Asia and Africa got political freedom from colonialism.
(b) In the beginning years, the focus was on catching up with west in terms of economic growth and modernization of societies.
(c) Earlier the state was the only agency capable of initiating that type of social and economic change and several nations embarked upon ambitious projects of development, generally with the assistance of loans and aid from the developed countries, i.e. five years plans in India since 1950s.
(d) The model of development adopted by India and other countries has come under a great deal of criticism over the years.
(e) This led to some re-thinking about the objectives and processes of development today.
(f) Construction of Sardar Sarovar project was challenged on the ground that it will displace the tribal people and local inhabitants living near the areas of this dam and initiatives were taken by by Medha Patekar under the banner of Narmada Bachao Andolan.
(g) Some well-known environmental groups include Green Peace and World Wildlife Fund, etc.
(h) In India, Chipko Movement was initiated under the leadership of Sunder Lal Bahuguna to protect the Himalayan forests to pressurize the government to modify industrial and
development policies of government.

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Peace
October 05, 2018

Peace

                                              Peace

introduction
Today, peace has become an important value like justice, equality and rights. although arguments on want of peace in society is of recent evolution. Initially, thinkers have praised conflict as the growth of civilisation. For example: nietzsche glorified war as it would lead to growth of civilisation. Italian theorist vilfred pareto said that people who used force to achieve their goals , constitute governing elites. They are called lions.
What is peace?
Peace is defined as absence of war. Situations where there is no conflict, violence or war is defined as peace. this was defined as peace because society has witnessed two world wars and a cold war. They have also witnessed nagasaki and hiroshima bombing and have realised the importance of peace.
But now peace has assumed greater dimensions in terms of economic, political and social. By economic peace, it means removal of poverty and economic inequalities in society, minimum provision of necessities of life. Social peace means removal of discrimination on the basis of caste, religion and region. And political peace having democracy, everybody sharing equal rights and oppurtunities. Violence which is due to economic, social and political is defined as structural violence.
This is how peace is being defined in a broader because we , in society, has achieved considerable peace.
Forms of structural violence

Traditional caste system has discriminated between higher and lower castes. Although it has been now abolished by constitution. But still oppression  and inequalities prevail.  
Patriarchy: discrimination against women is still common even though constitution has provided right to equality for all. Discrimination in the form of lack of education, nourishment, child marriage, wife battering etc.
Colonialism: it is the prolonged and direct subjection of people to alien rule. Coloial rule has exploited people and oppressed them by taking away their wealth. And also, people have been forced to perform labor. Palestinian struggle against Israeli domination shows that colonialism has not disappeared completely.
Racism and communalism: Racism has also been an evil in society. Apartheid existed for long in South Africa. Blacks were discriminated and were treated as inferior in compariosn to whites. Communalism has also become a biggest evil because people are now discriminated on the basis of religion and this is leading to conflicts in society.
Q&A
Q1. What is peace?
A1. Absence of war is defined as peace. and now definition of peace has been broadened to include elimination of structural violence like caste discrimination, building an equal society and eliminating patriarchal society, eliminating communalism and racism.
Q2. What are forms of structural violence?
A2. Traditional caste system has discriminated between higher and lower castes. Although it has been now abolished by constitution. But still oppression and inequalities prevail.  
Patriarchy: discrimination against women is still common even though constitution has provided right to equality for all. Discrimination in the form of lack of education, nourishment, child marriage, wife battering etc. men are considered superior to women. They(men) are treated in a bette way than women. They(men) are given preference in food, nourishment, education etc.
Colonialism: it is the prolonged and direct subjection of people to alien rule. Coloial rule has exploited people and oppressed them by taking away their wealth. And also, people have been forced to perform labor. Palestinian struggle against Israeli domination shows that colonialism has not disappeared completely.
Racism and communalism: Racism has also been an evil in society. Apartheid existed for long in South Africa. Blacks were discriminated and were treated as inferior in compariosn to whites. Communalism has also become a biggest evil because people are now discriminated on the basis of religion and this is leading to conflicts in society.
Q3. Name two thinkers who promoted war?
A3. Nietzsche and vilfred pareto.
Q4.How can peace be promoted?
A4. By removing structural violence, we can create a democratic and just society.
Can violence promote peace? 
This question might sound stange but we use violence to promote peace. for example sentencing a culprit to death for the crime of murdering another person is a form of violence. But this violence can be self-defeating because society learns that killing and death is the only way to rectify or correct a crime.
Pacifists say that non violence is the best way to bring about peaceful society. They urge to take  a moral stand against the use of violence for attaining just ends. They say that through love and truth one change the mind of oppressors.                        
Gandhi used civil disobedience method to have a non violence freedom movement. Gandhi deployed satyagraha. He tried to evoke the moral conscience of british. And if thatdidnot work then he put moral and political pressure on them by launching a mass movement.
Q&A
Q1. What method gandhi employed to pursue freedom movement?
A1. He made use of satyagraha and launched civil disobedience movement to achieve independence.
Q2. What is pacifists view on violence?
A2. Pacifists say that non violence is the best way to bring about peaceful society. They urge to take  a moral stand against the use of violence for attaining just ends. They say that through love and truth one change the mind of oppressors.                        
Q3. What is Gandhi's view of non violence?
A3. Non violence for gandhi meant not only causing physical harm but also avoiding mental harm or loss of livelihood to other person. He also said that one must even give up the thought of harming the other person. He also worked towards eliminating structural violence.  
State as an instrument of peace
State is considered as an instrument of peace because it protects our life, liberty and our rights. But a state always act in its self interest. It uses military, army, coercion and force to protect its territory and its people. States, many times uses this instrument of coercion to suppress their own people for example: in case of authoritarian and dictatorships.  
So we require an accountable and democratic  states which protects life and liberty of people but at the same time is also accountable to other states and respect rights of other country as well. 
Q&A
Q1. How state is an instrument of violence?
A1. Although state, protects our life, liberty and our rights. But a state always act in its self interest. It uses military, army, coercion and force to protect its territory and its people from enemy country. States, many times uses this instrument of coercion to suppress their own people for example: in case of authoritarian and dictatorships.  
Different approaches to peace 
There are three significant approaches to peace.
Centrality to states: this approach talks about giving importance to state and respecting their sovereignty. They want balance of power so that no country dominates the other country and there is no prevailing threat of attack also .
Second approach is nature of inter state rivalry: this approach says that increase interdependence of countries. Lets have trade, cultural exchange and social cooperation. This will help in promoting peace. and cooperation will be established. 
Third approach considers state to be a passing phase of human history: this approach says that with passing time, state's importance will be reduced and after some time diminished. This is because we are living in an global and interdependent world. There is increasing interactions among states. Multi national companies are coming up and incresaing their presence in society. So role of state will diminish and it will become a global world where borders will become irrelevant.
Q&A
Q1. What are three different approaches to peace?
A1. There are three significant approaches to peace.
Centrality to states: this approach talks about giving importance to state and respecting their sovereignty. They want balance of power so that no country dominates the other country and
 there is no prevailing threat of attack also .
Second approach is nature of inter state rivalry: this approach says that increase interdependence of countries. Lets have trade, cultural exchange and social cooperation. This will help in promoting peace. and cooperation will be established. 
Third approach considers state to be a passing phase of human history: this approach says that with passing time, state's importance will be reduced and after some time diminished. This is because we are living in an global and interdependent world. There is increasing interactions among states. Multi national companies are coming up and incresaing their presence in society. So role of state will diminish and it will become a global world where borders will become irrelevant.
 Contemporary challenges
 Although UN has made efforts in promoting and establishing peace, UN has also made use of war to bring peace. war in iraq and afghanistan is a clear example.
Terrorism : spread of terrorism has become a global problem. With even a superpower like USA not being spared from it. September 9/11 shocked the world.
 Weapons of mass destruction: Nuclear weapons has really scared the global community. As use of it will lead to masss destruction. 
Environmental problems: This is also disturbing our peace as polluted environment has led to disturbance of our health. This has also led to migrations from vulnerable countries like maldives. Maldives is on the verge of being drowned as it is the country which is at lowest sea level.
Q&A
Q1. What are the challenges to achieving peace? 
   A1.
Although UN has made efforts in promoting and establishing peace, UN has also made use of war to bring peace. war in iraq and afghanistan is a clear example.
Terrorism : spread of terrorism has become a global problem. With even a superpower like USA not being spared from it. September 9/11 shocked the world.
 Weapons of mass destruction: Nuclear weapons has really scared the global community. As use of it will lead to masss destruction.  
Environmental problems: This is also disturbing our peace as polluted environment has led to disturbance of our health. This has also led to migrations from vulnerable countries like Maldives. 

NCERT SOLUTION

Exercise : Solutions of Questions on Page Number : 142
Q1 :Do you think that a change towards a peaceful world, needs a change in the way people think? Can mind promote peace and is it enough to focus only on the human mind?
Answer :
Any answer supported with argument or explanation would solve the purpose. It is strongly recommended that you prepare the solution on your own. However, a sample solution has been provided for your reference:
A change towards a peaceful world needs a change in the way people think for most conflicts arise in the minds of people. However, the mind by itself is insufficient to promote peace as the cause for violence also lies in the social structures. Thus, the creation of a peaceful society requires the elimination of structural violence.
Q2 :A State must protect the lives and rights of its citizens. However, at times its own actions are a source of violence against some of its citizens. Comment with the help of some examples
Answer :
It is true that at times government’s own actions are a source of violence against some of its citizens.
The Armed Forces Special Power Act, 1958 in Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura has been a source of violence against the citizens of these states.
The Act has resulted in large-scale violation of the rights of citizens under Articles 14, 19, 21, 22, and 25 of the Constitution.
The Act allows any officer of armed forces to arrest or shoot the person, use of force and to search any premise on the basis of suspicion.
The act also bestows legal immunity to the officials protecting them from prosecution.
Another example of state violence on civilians is related to land acquisition.
In the name of development, the state forcefully encroached upon the land of people in Nandigram and Singur in 2007.
When the civilians protested they had to face brutalities of police.
Q3 :Peace can be best realised when there is freedom, equality and justice. Do you agree?
Answer :
Any answer supported with argument or explanation would solve the purpose. It is strongly recommended that you prepare the solution on your own. However, a sample solution has been provided for your reference:
It is correct that peace can best be realised in the presence of freedom, equality and justice. Freedom in the society allows people to express themselves freely, while equality and justice help in removing the grounds for conflict.
Every person and group will be able to fulfil their basic needs in societies where equality prevails.
Justice ensures the prevention of oppression of individuals and groups based on class, gender, etc.
Thus, freedom for all, along with equality and justice addressing the aspirations of all individuals and groups help in removing insecurities that breed resentment among groups and cause conflicts.
Q4 :Use of violence does not achieve just ends in the long run. What do you think about this statement?
Answer :
Use of violence does not achieve just ends in the long run as violence tends to become out of control and causes a trail of death and destruction.
Violence involved in forcefully removing oppressors, liberation struggle and self-defence is often justified.
However, the removal of oppressors by the oppressed class through violent struggle leads to another cycle of violence fuelled by a feeling for revenge.
According to Mahatma Gandhi when violence is done for good, the good is temporary and the evil it does is permanent as violence breeds hatred and resentment and divides people instead of uniting them.
Q5 :Differentiate between the major approaches, discussed in the chapter, to the establishment of peace in the world.
Answer :
There are three major approaches for the establishment of peace in the world.
The first approach favours sovereignty and deals with fair competition between the states and the maintenance of a balance of power to contain conflict. This approach upholds the sovereignty of states as paramount and competition among them as a fact in order to promote peace.
The second approach deals with economic integration and interdependence that leads to political unification. Economic and social cooperation between states would lead to peace by promoting international understanding.
The third approach visualises the state as a transitory system and the emergence of a global community surpassing the state system to maintain world peace. The rise of people’s movements and multinational corporations is a step in this direction. The process of globalisation has contributed to this by reducing the influence of state and diluting the concept of sovereignty.

 


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Secularism
October 05, 2018

Secularism

                                              Secularism

introduction 
india is a diverse country. Multiple religions and cultures coexist. This can also become a source of conflict and tensions in the country. So India has followed secular principles so that every religion nad community is respected and are given equal rights.
What is secularism?
Secularism is a normative doctrine which seeks to realise a secular society. It is free from inter-religious and intra religious domination. It promotes freedom to practice their religion and equality between religions as well as within religions.
Inter religious domination : situations where one religion dominates and suppresses other religion. For example In 1984, there were anti sikh riots. In 2004, in Godhra riots, Gujarat, Muslims were killed. All these examples show how one religion killed and suppressed other religion to show their superiority and domination.
Intra religious domination: situations where a community/religion dominates its own members. For example: dalits are at a very low hierarchy and they are treated inhumanely and like slaves by upper castes.
So secularism promotes freedom of religion. And is free from inter religious domination and intra religious domination.
Q&A
Q1. What is secularism?

A1. Secularism is a normative doctrine which seeks to realise a secular society. It is free from inter-religious and intra religious domination. It promotes freedom to practice their religion and equality between religions as well as within religions.  
Q2. What is inter religious domination? Give example. 
A2. Inter religious domination : situations where one religion dominates and suppresses other religion. For example In 1984, there were anti sikh riots. In 2004, in Godhra riots, Gujarat, Muslims were killed. All these examples show how one religion killed and suppressed other religion to show their superiority and domination.
Q3. What is intra religious domination? Give example.
A3. Intra religious domination: situations where a community/religion dominates its own members. For example: Dalits are at a very low hierarchy and they are treated inhumanely and like slaves by upper castes.
Secular state
Now the question which arises is what needs to be done to prevent conflicts and tensions in society? Education is very important for inculcating the right values in individuals. Mutual respect and love need to be shared.
Besides education we need a secular state. state should not be run by religious heads rather than directly elected by people. There needs to be separation between religion and political institutions. A state governed by priestly order is called theocratic state.
A state should also not have any formal or legal alliance with any religion. For example: although pakistan is headed by democratic rulers. But it is having an official religion namely sunni islam.  
State should be committed to principles and goals like peace, freedom from religious oppression, discrimination and also inter religious and intra religious equality.
Q&A
Q1. Give characteristics of secular state?
A1. A. state should not be run by religious heads rather directly elected by people. A state governed by priestly order is called theocratic state.
b. A state should also not have any formal or legal alliance with any religion. For example: although pakistan is headed by democratic rulers. But it is having an official religion namely sunni islam.  
c. State should be committed t principles and goals like peace, freedom from religious oppression, discrimination and also inter religious and intra religious equality.
Western model of secularism
We have read that there needs to be separation between political institutions and religion. Now what kind of separation. Separation means complete separation where state does not interfere in religious affairs at all.this is western secularism. Or should state interfere in religion so as to remove evils in it. This is Indian secularism. Let me explain more on this.
Features of Western model of secularism
State will not intervene in the affairs of religion. And religion will not intervene in the affairs of the state. Each have separate sphere of its own. No public policy will be drafted on the basis of religion. And the state cannot aid any religious institution. It cannot give any financial support o educational institutions run by religious communities. State donot intervene in the affairs of religion till the time religion is working within the limits of the law. For example: if a religion does not allow woman to become a priest , then the state can do little about it. If the religion does not allow some community to enter in its temple, then the state cannot do anything about it. State does not give community based rights or minority rights. This was because; most of the western societies was religiously homogenous except the presence of Jews. So they focused on individual freedom and equality and inter religious issues were neglected.
Indian model of secularism
Indian secularism is completely different from western secularism. Before we understand this, we need to remember that India is a religiously diverse country. The differences between indian and western secularism are
Keeping our deep rooted diversity in mind, indian secularism focused on equality. It opposed the oppression of women and dalits within hinduism or indian islam or christianity.
Indian secularism deals not only with religious freedom of individuals but also with religious freedom of minority community. Within it, individual has right to profess religion of his/her choice. Religious communities have a right to exist and establish their own culture and educational institutions.
We are having state supported religious reform. Our constitution has banned untouchability. It has also enacted several laws like abolishing child marriage and also allowing inter caste marriage within Hinduism.
So the question is, since the state intervenes in religious reform so can it be called secular? India has adopted a very sophisticated policy of religious equality. It has chosen positive mode of engagement. It grants all religious minorities the right to establish and maintain their own educational institutions which may receive assistance from state. These strategies are adopted by state to promote values of peace, freedom and equality.
Indian constitution allows for principled state intervention. It means that state will intervene when itsprinciples of freedom, equality and peace will be hindered.
Q&A
Q1. What is the difference between western model of secularism and indian model ofsecularism?
A1. The difference between western model of secularism and indian model of secularism is :
Western model of secularism: State will not intervene in the affairs of religion. And religion will not intervene in the affairs of the state. Each have a separate sphere of its own. No public policy will be drafted on the basis of religion. And the state cannot aid any religious institution. It cannot give any financial support to educational institutions run by religious communities. State donot intervene in the affairs of religion till the time religion is working within the limits of the law. For example: if a religion does not allow woman to become a priest , then the state can do little about it. If the religion does not allow some community to enter in its temple, then the state cannot do anything about it. State does not give community based rights or minority rights. This was because; most of the western societies was religiously homogenous except the presence of Jews. So they focused on individual freedom and equality and inter religious issues were neglected.
Indian model of secularism
Indian secularism is completely different from western secularism. This is because India is a religiously diverse country. The differences between indian and western secularism are:
Keeping our deep rooted diversity in mind, indian secularism focused on equality. It opposed the oppression of women and dalits within hinduism or indian islam or christianity.
Indian secularism deals not only with religious freedom of individuals but also with religious freedom of minority community. Within it, individual has right to profess religion of his/her choice. Religious communities have a right to exist and establish their own culture and educational institutions.
We are having state supported religious reform. Our constitution has banned untouchability. It has also enacted several laws like abolishing child marriage and also allowing inter caste marriage within Hinduism.
India has adopted a very sophisticated policy of religious equality. It has chosen a positive mode of engagement. It grants all religious minorities the right to establish and maintain their own educational institutions which may receive assistance from state. These strategies are adopted by state to promote values of peace, freedom and equality. Indian constitution allows for principled state intervention.  
Q2. Mention any two features of India as a secular state.
Ans. 1. There is no state religion in India. No religion has been given special rights and no religion is given any special help by the state.
2. The Constitution grants religious freedom to all the people. Every individual can pursue religion of their choice.
Q3. Is secularism suitable for India? Explain.
Ans. Secularism is most suitable for India due to following reasons:
1. Multi-Religious State. Secularism is most suitable for India because India is a multi-religious state. So, it is not desirable to accept one single religion as the state religion.
2. Impact of ancient culture. Since ancient times diverse religious movements flourished in different parts of India. And this promoted tolerance. So the framers of the Constitution felt that secularism was the best option to continue that spirit.
3. India is a democratic State. So it grants Freedom of religion and equality of all religions to every individual.
4. Partition of the country. The division of the country made us learn that india needs to be secular country if it wants peace in the country.
Q.3.  Mention five forces that threaten the growth of a secular state in India.
Ans. Followings are the main forces and factors which threaten the growth of a secular state in India:
1. Communalism. Hatred amongst communities has led to inter-community conflicts.for example: godhra riots, anti sikh riots in 1984.
3. Casteism. Almost all the political parties in India contest elections on the basis of caste. And even a candidate for a constituency is selected on the basis of the caste.
4. Lack of tolerance. Lack of tolerance among people has become great problem for Indian secularism. Politicians also take advantage of this by inculcating more of intolerance and encouraging them to remain divided and fight.
  5. Social Inequalities. Serious social inequalities like poverty, unemployment has also threaten the growth of secularism.
Q4. Short note: difference between indian secularism and western secularism
A4.

Western Secularism
Indian Secularism
non-interference of religion and state in each other's affairs. separation of state and religion.
  State supports religious reforms.
Equality between different sects of a religion is emphasised.
  Equality between different religious    groups is a key concern.
Less attention to community based rights.        
focus on minority rights. community based rights are granted.
individual liberty at the centre.
equality at centre

 NCERT SOLUTION



Exercise : Solutions of Questions on Page Number : 127
Q1 :Which of the following do you feel are compatible with the idea of secularism? Give reasons.
(a) Absence of domination of one religious group by another.
(b) Recognition of a state religion.
(c) Equal state support to all religions.
(d) Mandatory prayers in schools.
(e) Allowing separate educational institutions for any minority community.
(f) Appointment of temple management bodies by the government.(g) Intervention of state to ensure entry of Dalits in temples.
Answer :  Any answer supported with argument or explanation would solve the purpose. It is strongly recommended that you prepare the solution on your own. However, a sample solution has been provided for your reference:
(a) Absence of domination of one religious group over another is compatible with the idea of secularism as it allows freedom to all religious groups.
(c) Equal state support to all religions is compatible with the idea of secularism as it provides a chance to every religion to preserve it’s traditions and flourish.
(e) Allowing separate educational institutions for any minority is compatible with the idea of secularism as this will provide right to the minority to maintain it’s cultural identity and a chance to develop.
(g) Intervention of state to ensure entry of Dalits in temples is compatible with the idea of secularism as it prevents discrimination and provides equal rights to every social group.
Q2 :Some of the key characteristics of western and Indian model of secularism have got mixed up. Separate them and make a new table.
Western Secularism Indian Secularism
Strict non-interference of religion and state in each other’s affairs State supported religious reforms allowed
Equality between different religious groups is a key concern Equality between different sects of a religion is emphasised
Attention to minority rights Less attention to community based rights
Individual and his rights at the centre Rights of both individual and religious community protected.
Answer:
Western Secularism Indian Secularism
Strict non-interference of religion and state in each other’s affairs State supported religious reforms allowed
Equality between different religious groups is a key concern Attention to minority rights
Attention to minority rights Equality between different religious groups is a key concern
Individual and his rights at the centre Rights of both individual and religious community protected.
Q3 :What do you understand by secularism? Can it be equated with religious tolerance?
Answer :
Secularism is a doctrine that opposes any form of religious and intra-religious domination. It does not oppose religion itself.
Secularism cannot be equated with religious tolerance as tolerance may be compatible with religious domination by one group.
However, religious tolerance is one of the components of secularism.
Q4 :Do you agree with the following statements? Give reasons for supporting or opposing any of them.
(a) Secularism does not allow us to have a religious identity.
(b) Secularism is against inequality within a religious group or between different religious groups.
(c) Secularism has a western-Christian origin. It is not suitable for India.
Answer :  Any answer supported with argument or explanation would solve the purpose. It is strongly recommended that you prepare the solution on your own. However, a sample solution has been provided for your reference:
(a)  Secularism allows us to have a religious identity. In India, a citizen can have a religious identity, so that he/she can represent his/her religious institution whenever required in order to preserve and develop it.
(b)  Secularism is against inequality both within a religious group and between different religious groups. The Indian government tries to maintain equality within religious groups to prevent discrimination and eradicate practices that are derogatory to human dignity.
(c)  Secularism may have a western-Christian origin but it is suitable for India. This is due to the fact that India is a multi-cultural and religious society. Thus, it is necessary to ensure equal treatment to all groups both within and between different religions to maintain harmony and integrate the country.
Q5 :Indian secularism focuses on more than the religion-state separation. Explain.
Answer :
Indian secularism does not focus on the religion-state separation alone; it is also concerned with maintaining harmony between different religions and reforming religious practices to protect the social and civil rights of its citizens.
Indian secularism allows every religion to flourish and develop.
The Indian state allows the promotion of all religions and treats each of them equally.
Therefore state does not interfere in religious matters but it checks the influence of religion in public life.
Q6 :Explain the concept of principled distance.
Answer :  According to the concept of principled distance, a secular state may keep a principled distance from religion to promote peace between communities and it may also intervene to protect the rights of specific communities.
The state gives equal preference to every religion and respects them all equally.However, the state may interfere if religious groups try to exercise their power on the political and social life of the people.
This balanced distance of state from religious groups is called principled distance.









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Nationalism
October 05, 2018

Nationalism

                                         Nationalism 

Introduction
this chapter will explain us the meaning of nation and nationalism. and its strengths and limitations.
Nationalism
the very important point which we come across at first place, is what is nation ? and what is nationalism?  
nation is an imagined community which is held together by common beliefs, aspirations, and imaginations of its members. it is based on assumptions which people make on which they are identified. these common assumptions are: 
a. shared beliefs
b. history
c. territory
d. shared political ideals
e. common political identity 
before we discuss, these points in little detail let us first answer the questions.
Q&A
Q1. what is a nation?
A1. nation is an imagined community which is held together by common beliefs, aspirations, and imaginations of its members.
Q2. what are the common assumptions on which people identify themselves as a collective unity?
A2.  The common assumptions on which people identify themselves as a collective unity are:
a. shared beliefs
b. history
c. territory
d. shared political ideals
e. common political identity 
Now let us discuss these points. 
a.  Shared Beliefs
a nation does not consist of mountains, hills, territory, infrastructure and natural resources etc. but nation is made by its people. and a nation exists only when people believe that they belong together. They have a belief that they are one entity and together as one team, we have to take our country forward. 
b. history 
india shares history of its ancient and long civilisation. she (india) shares her legends, historical memories, historical records . we also share our freedom movement. this sense of hidtory binds us as one entity. 
c. territory
Sharing a common past and living together on a particular territory over a long period of time gives people a sense of collective identity. it helps them to imagine themselves as one community. people who see themselves as nation speak of homeland, fatherland, or holyland. for example: jewish people say palestine as their homeland. 
d. shared political ideals
india shares its political ideals  like democracy, liberty, secularism, socialism, and equality. these ideals keep indian people united.  people have accpeted these ideals as benefitting every section of community and are willing to live together. we are also bound by obligations and these obligations(duty) towards our country has kept us united. 
e. common political identity
india do not share a common religious and linguistic identity. this is because india has diverse religions. and in those religions also there are different sects. also, india wanted to rsepect different religions so india never adopted a state religion. india is a secular country. she(india) is not a hindu country or a muslim country or a christian country. 
we are identified as one political entity because we adhere to the values enshrined in our constitution. we have accept secularism, freedom and rights etc as the values in our constitution. 
Q&A
Q1. How does sharing beliefs constitute a nation?
A1. a nation does not consist of mountains, hills, territory, infrastructure and natural resources etc. but nation is made by its people. and a nation exists only when people believe that they belong together. They have a belief that they are one entity and together as one team, we have to take our country forward. 
Q2. How does sharing history constitute nation?
A2. India shares history of its ancient and long civilisation. she (india) shares her legends, historical memories, historical records . we also share our freedom movement. this sense of hidtory binds us as one entity. 
Q3. how does sharing a territory constitute a nation?
A3. Sharing a common past and living together on a particular territory over a long period of time gives people a sense of collective identity. it helps them to imagine themselves as one community. people who see themselves as nation speak of homeland, fatherland, or holyland. for example: jewish people say palestine as their homeland. 
Q4. what beliefs constitute a nation? explain
A4. a.  Shared Beliefs
a nation does not consist of mountains, hills, territory, infrastructure and natural resources etc. but nation is made by its people. and a nation exists only when people believe that they belong together. They have a belief that they are one entity and together as one team, we have to take our country forward. 
b. history 
india shares istory of its ancient and long civilisation. she (india) shares her legends, historical memories, historical records . we also share our freedom movement. this sense of hidtory binds us as one entity. 
c. territory
Sharing a common past and living together on a particular territory over a long period of time gives people a sense of collective identity. it helps them to imagine themselves as one community. people who see themselves as nation speak of homeland, fatherland, or holyland. for example: jewish people say palestine as their homeland. 
d. shared political ideals
india shares its political ideals  like democracy, liberty, secularism, socialism, and equality. these ideals keep indian people united.  people have accpeted these ideals as benefitting every section of community and are willing to live together. we are also bound by obligations and these obligations(duty) towards our country has kept us united. 
e. common political identity
we are identified as one political entity because we adhere to the values enshrined in our constitution. we have accept secularism, freedom and rights etc as the values in our constitution.  india does not share a common religious and linguistic identity. 
Q.5.  Give the meaning of nationalism.
Ans. nationalism means devotion for the nation. It is a sentiment that binds the people together.
National Self-Determination
self determination means right to govern oneself. nations always seek to govern themselves. This is because they get an international recognition and acceptance that they are one nation. nations also lay claim to self government because they can protect their culture and beliefs and their own people. 
india also carried out long independence movement to claim right to self determination. self government provides dignity and also confidence that they are not being ruled by any outside superior power.  
even today there are groups who are fighting for separate statehood and self  determination. tamilians in sri lanka, quebecois in canada etc. 
but countries formed on the basis on nation have also led to increasing amount of violence, mass migration and riots. since, a cultural group when they get right to govern themselves and establish their statehood, people from other cultural groups or minority groups start feeling marginalised and discriminated. so they migrate to other areas where they feel safe and their rights are protected. So, it is a paradoxical situation when cultural groups claim right to self determination but at the same time other cultural or minority groups feel discriminated which leads to violence and backlash. if you remember, in chapter of citizenship we have talked about global citizenship where human rights of every individual is to be respected.  global citizenship can solve the national self-determination paradox.  
Also, other suggestion is that we need to make nations more democratic and inclusive. we need to accept the fact that it is a globalisation world and people are on the move for jobs, travel, marriage and for residence. So, we cannot follow restrictive definition of nation. nations need to be more democratic and inclusive now. they need to give constitutional protection to minority groups. right to representation in legislative bodies can also be provided. 
Q&A
Q1. Write two merits of nationalism.
Ans. 1. Nationalism inculcates patriotic spirit. A man is prepared to make any sacrifice for the glory and safety of his/her country.
2. Nationalism is a unifying factor. it creates religious and cultural unity.
Q2.  Write two demerits of nationalism.
Ans. 1. Nationalism is a threat to world peace. Nationalism many a times becomes the cause of many wars. people belonging to minority or other nation feels marginalised which becomes a cause of conflict and violence.
2.  A nation upholding the values of nationalism regards its nations as superior to others and thereby creates hatred for other nations. for example: hitler regarded jewish race as inferior to aryan race. and hence he carried out mass massacres of jewish in order to exterminate them. 
Q3. What is right to self determination? 
A3. right to self determination means right to govern oneself.
Q4. what are the merits of self determination?  
A4. a. they have the right to govern themselves
b. they can determine their own future developments.  
c. they get recognition as a distinct political entity.
d. they can protect their own cultural group. 
e. political independence provide dignity and freedom from colonial domination. as in case of asian and african freedom struggles.        
Q5. What are the demerits of national self determination?
A5. a. many times, minorities are not considered as equal citizens. 
b. impossible to grant self determination to every group.
c. it will lead to formation of many small states will be created.   
Q6. How can minorities problem be solved in a nation?
a6. nations need to be made more democratic and inclusive.  we need to accept the fact that it is a globalisation world and people are on the move for jobs, travel, marriage and for residence. So, we cannot follow restrictive definition of nation. they need to give constitutional protection to minority groups. right to representation in legislative bodies can also be provided.  also we can recognise a nation on the basis of political identity rather than reinforcing cultural, language or religious identity.
Q7. Distinguish between state and nation.
Ans. Following are the difference between state and nation:
1. State has four essential elements, but elements of nation are not fixed.
2. The elements of a nation may change and they go on changing, but the elements of state are permanent and remain same.
3. Idea of oneness is essential for the nation but not for the state.
4. Definite territory is essential for the state but not for the Nation.
5. Sovereignty is essential for the state and not for the Nation.
Tagore on nationalism
Tagore was against the concept of nationalism. he believed in internationalism rather than nationalism . he believed that humanity cannot be divided on the basis of nations or borders. equal rights and dignity need to be provided to everyone irrespective of the fact whether he/she is an indian, american or arabi.  
Q&A
Q1. what was tagore's critique of nationalism? 
A1. tagore  believed in internationalism rather than nationalism . he believed that humanity cannot be divided on the basis of nations or borders. equal rights and dignity need to be provided to everyone irrespective of his/her nationality.


NCERT SOLUTION

Q1. How is a nation different from other forms of collective belonging?
Answer: A nation is not only a collection of people and it differs from other groups found in society:
1. A state is different from a family which is based on direct personal interaction of people living together and having knowledge and characters of other also.
2. A nation is different from clans, tribes and kinship which ties of marriage and descent link members to each other so that even if we do not personally know all the members we can.
3. But as a member of a nation, we may never come face to face with most of our fellow nationals nor need we share ties of descent with them.

Q2. What do you understand by the right to national self-determination? How has this idea resulted in both formation of and challenges to nation-states?
Answer:
Right of self-determination implies that every nation in the world should enjoy a right to determine its destiny in all walks of life without any due interference from any other state.
 The basic right implies that each state has a right to exist independently without inference from  other states and sovereignty of the state would be respected by all.
 Every state exercises the right to preserve what it considers worth-preserving. Each tradition has some historical background and represents the soul of the nation. To enjoy these rights, we may conclude the following reasons:
(i) These rights are essential for the coexistence of a democracy in action.
(ii) This right promotes national unity among the various states which belong to different races, castes, religion and cultures.
(iii) This right guarantees that minorities should not be absorbed in the majority whereas they should also be given the right to determine their culture and civilization along with majority communities.
(iv) This right provided more national security because the majority and minority both enjoy the right to determine their own affairs in the way they lined. But the right of self-determination results in the following challenges.
(a) It may hinder the smooth functioning of administration in multi-national states like India, USSR because each section makes efforts to find out one’s own way.
(b) Sometimes, this right finds it difficult to frame a public opinion for the success of democracy because everyone would develop its own identity only.The right of self-determination resulted:
(i) Disintegration of states, i.e. Russia, Austria, Hungary
(ii) Resulted in the unification of states like Germany and Italy.
(iii) Resulted in the formation of states like Czechoslovakia and Finland. Hence, it can be concluded that the right of self-determination can be also used for both purpose of national integration and disintegration.

Q3. “We have seen that nationalism can unite people as well as divide them, liberate them as well generate bitterness and conflict”. Illustrate your answer with examples.
Answer: Nationalism requires to be studied due to its important role in the world affairs.
(a) Nationalism has united the people and divided them also to liberate them from oppressive rule and has been the cause of conflict and wars.
(b) Nationalism has contributed to the drawing and re-drawing of the boundaries of states and empires.
(c) Nationalism has been a factor in the break of empires and states.
(d) Nationalism has gone through various processes/passes, i.e. it led to the unification of a number of small kingdoms into large nation states as Italy, Germany, etc.
(e) Even at present a large part of the world is divided into different nation-states and separatist struggles within existing states are common.
(f) Nationalism has also accompanied to the break up of empires like Austro-Hungarian (in the end of 1919 or 1920), break of colonial Britain, France, Dutch, and Portuguese in Asia and Africa.

Q4. Neither descent, nor language, nor religion or ethnicity can claim to be a common factor in nationalisms all over the world. Comment.
Answer:
 It is commonly believed that nations are constituted by a group who shares certain features as descent, or language or religion or ethnicity.
 But there is in fact no common set of characteristics to be present in all nations.
 Many nations do not have common language, i.e.Canada includes English speaking and French speaking people in India also has a large number of languages to be spoken in different religions.
 Many nations do not have common religion to unite them. And some is applicable to other characteristics, i.e. race or descent. Hence, a nation is to a great extent an imagined
community held together by the collective beliefs,aspirations and imagination of its members.

Q5. Illustrate with suitable examples the factors that lead to the emergence of nationalist feelings.
Answer:
 A common motherland emerges the feeling of nationalism because people belonging to one place  are mutually bound to love their motherland, i.e. the Jews stayed far away from motherland still it kept their nationalism alive.
 Common culture refers for customs and traditions,ideas, art and literature, dress, food, etc. through which people start understanding one another to live in harmony and cooperation. Hence, it emerges nationalism.
 Common language also emerges nationalism as people understand and come nearer to each other by their expressions together to bind them. Through language, the people develop some habits as well as adopt some ways of life.
 Common religion also contributes to the emergence of nationality as the people remain under the command of a religious leader and the spirit of oneness is developed among all followers of religion.
 Lastly most important thing is, a nation is constituted by belief. Nations are not like mountains, rivers or buildings which we can see and feel. It is to refer to the collective identity and vision for the future of a group which aspires to have an independent political existence.A nation exists when its members believe that they belong together.

Q6. How is a democracy more effective than authoritarian governments in dealing with conflicting nationalist aspirations?
Answer:
Democratic government is more effective than authoritarian government in dealing with conflicting nationalist aspirations.
1. A democracy is the most acceptable form of government in the world. Authoritarian types of government are not liked and accepted nowadays.
2. In a democracy, it is shared commitment to a set of political values and ideals that is the most desirable basis of a political community or a nation state. Within it, members of political community are bound by a set of obligations.These obligations arise from the recognition of the rights of each other as citizens.
3. A nation is strengthened when its people acknowledge and accept their obligations to their fellow members. It is more easily possible in a democracy than in an authoritarian government.We might even say that recognisation of democratic framework government provide enough chances and more favourable atmosphere that in an authoritarian government.Mutual respect and cooperation is the strongest test of loyalty to the nation.

Q7. What do you think are the limitations of nationalism?
Answer:
1. A territory creates a nation and inhabitants of that particular territory create nationalism but the world is divided into different nations and states, even though the process of re-ordering of state boundaries has not come to an end due to separatist struggles in the existing states.
2. The people of new states acquired a new political identity based on membership of nation along with the state loyalties and common languages.
3. It is quite difficult to arrive at a precise and widely accepted definition of nationalism.
4. The struggle for freedom from colonial rule by India and other former colonies were nationalist struggles with the desire to be independent of foreign control, i.e Austro-Hungarian, Russian, French, Dutch, Portuguese empires, etc.
5. The process of drawing state boundaries have also been confronted by nationalist demands including separate statehood.
6. Even today, in many parts of the world, we witness nationalist struggles to threaten to divide the existing states, i.e. Tamils in Sri Lanka, Kurds in Turkey and Iraq, Basques in
northern Spain, etc.
7. Nationalism has also passed through many phases, i.e. Germany and Italy’s unification and consolidation

 

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