In line with the course curriculum of political science II of 5 year BA LLB. Programme of the University of Mumbai, this text book seeks to equip students with a nuanced understanding of the theoretical foundations of the concept of political obligation and other related themes. As future legal professionals, it is essential for the Law students studying political science to grasp the intricacies of governance which will empower them to contribute meaningfully to the creation of a just and inclusive society. Through a critical examination of key concepts, with real world examples, the book aims to develop in students, a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of power, authority, legitimacy. The Philosophical foundation of political obligation and concepts like Problem of obedience to unjust laws, Dissent, theories of punishment is explained in a lucid manner to enable the law students appreciate the subject matter. The book provides a comprehensive understanding of different ideologies like liberalism, socialism, communism, utilitarianism highlighting the views of thinkers like Karl Marx, J.S. Mill and Jeremy Bentham which will encourage students to think, reflect, reason and analyse the complexities of governance, citizenship, challenges and opportunities facing our democratic system. Further, the book will also be useful to any students of political science to know the theoretical and practical dimensions of political obligation.
Contents –
1. The Concept of Power and Authority in Political Science
2. Political Obligation –Why and What
3. Theories of Political Obligation
4. Political Parties and Interest Groups
5. Political Legitimacy and Democracy
6. Democratic Decentralisation and Local Governments
7. Punishment –What and Why
8. Political Ideologies
References