1st Year Civics EM
1st Year Civics EM
1st Year Civics EM
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3. Write two definitions of Democracy? 2
4. What do you understand by Representative Democracy? 2
5. What is meant by Recall? 2
1. What are the features of the Secular State? 5
2. What are the types of Secularism? 2
10 Secularism 3. What do you mean by Theocracy? 2
4. Define Secular State? 2
1. Distinguish between written and unwritten 5
11 Constitution Constitution?
2. What is an Evolved Constitution? 2
3. What is an Enacted Constitution? 2
4. Write two differences between Rigid and Flexible 2
Constitutions?
1. What is a Parliamentary Government? Explain its 10
features?
2. Discuss the features of Federal Government? 5
12 Government 3. Write about Aristotle’s classification on Government? 2
4. What is Unitary Government? 2
5. How many organs of government are there? Name 2
them?
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BOARD OF INTERMEDIATE EDUCATION; ANDHRA PRADESH:
IMPORTANT QUESTIONS & MATERIAL FOR POOR STUDENTS
CIVICS-I (EM) - 2024-25.
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7. Study of Power
The Behaviouralists of 20th century conceived the Political Science as a study of
sharing and shaping of the Power. They pointed out that the Political Science explains how
power is grabbed, manipulated and perpetuated in order to have a control over the political
society.
8. Study of Public Policy
Modern Political Scientists like Anderson and David Easton considered the Political
Science as a study of formulation, execution and evaluation of Public Policy. They
emphasized the role of formal Political Structures and informal Political groups.
Two Marks Question & Answer.
1. Write about ancient city states?
The Political Scientists felt that the study of Political Science had its origin in the
ancient Greek city states. They are:- Athens, Corinth, Macedonia, Thebes, Sparta, Milan etc.
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State is considered as the most important, powerful and sovereign institution. It has
the following essential elements.
1. Population 2. Territory
3. Government 4.Sovereignty
1. Population
State is an organized human association. Population is its first and fore-most
element. No State can exist and survive without people as there must be some to rule and
others to be ruled.
Political thinkers expressed different opinions in regard to the size of the Population
of the State. For example Plato, the ideal state should not comprise more than 5040 people,
as per Rousseau 10,000 people.
In modern times the maximum and minimum size of population has not been
prescribed. The qualitative aspect of population is more important for a state. If the people
are committed, disciplined, hardworking, honest and intelli-gent, then the state achieves
rapid progress.
2. Territory
Territory is the second essential element of the State. Territory denotes geographical
area of state. It is owned and controlled by a government which exercises sovereign power.
The State cannot be constituted without fixed territory. For example Gypsies tribe.
State requires a fixed territory with clear demarcated boundaries for exercising
undisputed authority. Territory of a state comprises:-
1. Land, mountains, rivers and lakes within its frontiers.
2. Territorial waters extending up to 12 nautical miles into the sea.
3. Terrestrial space lying above its land.
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2. Point out the difference between state and society? 5 Marks
State Society
1. State is a political organization 1. Society is a social organization
2. State regulates the external 2. Society controls the both internal and
relations of men in society only. external activities of the individual.
3. State derives its strength mainly from laws 3. Society derives its strength from customs
and traditions
4. State is a territorial organization. It has a 4. Society is not a definite territory.
definite territory.
5. State alone has sovereignty 5. Society does not possess sovereignty
6. State is an important part of Society. 6. Society is wider than the State.
7. Laws of State are uniform 7. Rules of Society are not uniform
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hair, complexion etc. These distinctions serve as a cementing bond among the members of a
group.
2. Common Language
Language is a medium of communication and deliberations among the people.
People having a common language can very easily form into a single nation. Common
Language embodies common literature. It brings together like minded persons nearer. This
leads to a sort of psychological unity among the people.
3. Common Religion
In the past religion played an important role in the consolidation of the nation.
Common religion prompted and promoted strong bonds of unity. It helped in the formation
of nationality through the common ideas and ideals of the people.
4. Geographical Unity.
Geographical unity is considered to be very essential for the formation of nationality
and nation. It is inherent in nature. It attempts to design a separate entity to ascertain the
unity of the country. Such unity affords an opportunity to the people to live together under
similar climatic conditions.
5. Common History.
Common History invokes an inspiration among the people and binds them together.
Sometimes historical incidents may give a chance to the people to develop national
sentiments.
6. Common Culture
Culture in its broad sense means a way of life. It is reflected through certain common
elements like dress, customs, conventions, food habits, religious beliefs, ethical values etc.
They easily develop into a single nation.
7. Common Political Aspirations
People living together in a territory will be imbibed with common political and
economic aspirations. These in turn play a dominant role in the emergence of a nation.
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1. What are the differences between Nation and Nationality? 5 Marks
Nation Nationality
1. Nation is a Political concept. 1. Nationality is a psychological
feeling.
2. Nation is always a politically 2. Nationality is always an un-
organized state. organized and flexible feeling.
3. Nation is always independent. 3. Nationality is not independent.
4. There can’t be a nation without 4. There can be nationality with a
nationality. nation.
5. People who form into a nation 5. Until the people of a nationality
obey the laws of the State. form into a nation, there can’t be
constitutional laws.
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6. Write about any three sources of Law? 5 Marks
Sources of Law
Professor T.E. Holland mentioned six sources of Law. They are:
1. Customs. 2. Religion. 3. Equity
4. Legislation 5. Judicial decisions. 6. Scientific Commentaries
1. Customs
Customs are regarded as the earliest source of Law. In ancient period disputes between
individuals were settled in accordance with the prevailing social customs. In due course,
practices became usages. Ex. Marriage laws.
7. Religion
In ancient period, Customs and Religion were closely related to each other. The ancient
city states were governed on the basis of divine laws which were made by priests and kings.
Religion served as the basis of laws in many states.
8. Equity
The term ‘Equity’ stands for the principles of fairness and justice. When the existing laws
are inadequate, judges use their common sense and fair understanding to give relief to the
party concerned. It is viewed as judge made law.
Two Marks Questions & Answers
1. Define the term Rule of Law?
Rule of Law is a unique feature of British Constitution. It is purely based on the
principle of common law. It should be uniformly applicable to all the citizens. All are equal
before law.
2. Constitutional Law?
Constitutional Law is basically different from ordinary laws. It is supreme law of the
State. It determines the structure of the government. It explains the relationship among
the organs of the government.
3. What is Natural Law?
Natural law is also known as divine law. It is abstract. It is not created by any human
agency. It is considered as the gift of nature based on metaphysical power.
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2. What is Equality?
The concept of equality, like liberty is a significant one in the study of Political Science.
According to Pathanjali Shastri “Equality does not mean identical treatment. It means equal
treatment under equal conditions”.
3. Social Equality
Social Equality denotes presence of equality of status and absence of class distinctions
and discrimination. It exists when no individual is made to suffer on account of his caste,
religion, class, colour, creed, race etc.
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8. Independent Press
Independent Press will be able to disseminate news and views impartially and
without fear or favour to anybody. In this regard the state should not try to threaten and
silence the press. Then only individuals enjoy their rights to the maximum extent.
9. Social and Economic Equalities
Social and economic equalities are essential for enjoying one's rights. People will be
able to utilize their rights properly and positively when there are social and economic
equalities in the state.
10. Eternal Vigilance
Eternal vigilance is most important safeguard of rights of individuals. Individuals
must be vigilant and cautious about the policies of the government. They should oppose the
despotic tendencies of the government through democratic and constitutional methods.
2. Explain the Political Rights? (5 marks)
Political Rights enable the citizens to participate in the political affairs of the State.
The Citizen of the State only can enjoy these rights.
1. Right to Vote
It serves as a powerful weapon for adult citizens in choosing their representatives to
various legislative bodies. All adult citizens are entitled to this right without any
discrimination based on caste, colour, language, race, region, religion, sex etc.
2. Right to Contest as candidate in Elections
This right empowers the citizens to contest as candidates to various legislative
bodies in the state. Especially it enables our dynamic citizens, to actively participate in the
political affairs of the state.
3. Right to hold Public Offices
This right provides opportunities to the citizens to hold various public offices for a
definite period. It gives no scope for exclusion of citizens or conferring special privileges to
some at the cost of others.
4. Right to Petition
This right enables citizens to forward petitions to the government denoting their
requirements or grievances. Citizens could be able to find solutions to their pending issues
by bringing them to the notice of the government.
5. Right to Criticism
This right gives opportunity to the citizens to criticize the various public policies and
programs. It enables them to highlight the omissions and commissions of the leaders and
administrative personnel at various levels.
Two Marks Questions and Answers
1. Classify Rights
Rights are broadly classified into three types.
1. Natural Rights 2. Moral Rights 3. Legal Rights
Legal rights also classified into three types
1. Civil Rights 2. Political Rights 3. Economic Rights.
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2. Classification of Responsibilities
Responsibilities are broadly classified into two types.
1. Moral Responsibilities
2. Legal Responsibilities
Legal Responsibilities are also classified into two types.
1. Positive Responsibilities
2. Negative Responsibilities
5. Give two examples of Responsibilities
1. Loyalty to State
2. Obedience to Laws
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3. Corrective Justice
Corrective Justice comprises restoring the lost rights to each person due to the
infringement of his rights by others. In brief, it embodies moral excellence of individuals.
Citizen Alien
1. A citizen resides in a particular state on 1. An alien resides in a state on temporary
permanent basis. basis
2. A citizen owes loyalty to the state in 2. An alien owes allegiance to the State to
which he resides. which he belongs.
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3. A citizen is entitled to enjoy civil and 3. 3. An alien will have civil rights only.
political rights.
4. A citizen can criticize the policies and 4. An alien has no right to criticize the
programmes of the government policies and programmes of the
government.
5. A citizen will have both the rights and 5. An alien has more responsibilities than
responsibilities. the rights.
1. Suggest the conditions required for the successful functioning of Democracy? 10 Marks
The following conditions are essential to the success of democracy.
1. Sound system of Education
The success of democracy requires adequate education for the citizens. Ignorance,
innocence and uneducation prevent them from adopting right attitudes and large-scale
reforms. Education sharpens the intellect of individuals.
2. Enlightened Citizenship
Enlightened citizens are an asset to the democratic state. Such citizens can excercise
proper vigilance. They can actively participate in public affairs and help their fellow citizens
in the exercise of their rights and discharge of their responsibilities.
3. Independent Press
An independent press is a prerequisite of democracy. It enables the people to
receive accurate and unbiased information regarding the governmental activities. It strives
to promote harmonious relationship between the people and the government.
4. Strong Opposition
The success of democracy depends to a great extent on the strong and effective
opposition. Such an opposition will act as a check against the government by pointing out its
lapses.
5. Decentralization of powers
Decentralization of powers and establishment of democratic institutions at the grass
roots level is indispensable for the healthy organisation of democratic institutions.
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Representative bodies at the grass roots level (Panchayat Raj Institutions) in India will act as
mini legislatures.
6. Absence of economic disparities
Democracy cannot function smoothly when there are economic disparities in a
country. When a country comprises a large number of poor people and a few wealthy
persons, democracy could not work successfully. Hence, every effort must be made by the
government to reduce economic inequalities in the society.
7. Social Equality
Caste, class and racial distinctions will impede the healthy working of democracy. To
be successful, democracy must open its doors to everybody on equal basis by providing
equal opportunities to all in social sphere.
8. Faith in Democracy
Certain democratic beliefs and values like individual's worth, need for tolerance of
differences, decisions through discussions etc should be inculcated among the people.
9. Agreement on Fundamental Issues
Democracy for its success presupposes agreement on fundamental issues.
Otherwise, there prevail sharp differences between individuals. They must be willing to
settle their differences through discussions.
10. Sagacious Leadership
Sagacious leadership is another essential condition to the success of democracy.
Sagacious leaders, by virtue of their administrative acumen, political propriety, social
commitment and economic perspective, will be able to lead the democratic state to greater
heights of glory.
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2. Briefly explain about Direct Democracy Devices? 5Marks
Direct Democratic devices prevailed and practiced in some ancient Greek city states.
However, some states like Switzerland and USA have adopted these devices.
There are four devices of Direct Democracy. They are:-
1. Referendum 2. Initiative 3. Recall 4. Plebiscite.
1. Referendum
The term Referendum means ‘refer to’. Referendum is a device whereby the opinion
of the people is ascertained through a direct reference to the people. Referendum is two
types. 1. Compulsory 2. Optional.
2. Initiative
The advocates of direct democracy were not satisfied with mere referendum. So
they pleaded for Initiative for enabling the people to propose legislation. If it is approved by
the majority citizens, it becomes a duly enacted law.
3. Recall
Recall is an important direct democratic device which allows the voters to call back
an elected officer or representative when he fails to carry out his obligations faithfully or
properly.
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4. Plebiscite
The term Plebiscite is derived from two Latin words ‘plebis’ and ‘scitum’ which
means ‘people’ and ‘decree’. The method of Plebiscite is used for ascertaining the opinion
of the people on an important public policy.
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Two Marks Questions and Answers.
1. Write two definitions of Democracy?
1. “Democracy is a government of People, by the people and for the people”.
--- Abraham Lincoln.
2. “Democracy is a government in which everyone has a share”—J.R.Seeley
2. What do you understand by Representative Democracy?
People living in these states govern indirectly through their elected representatives.
The will of state formulated and expressed not by the people, it is indirectly expressed
through their representatives.
3. Recall
Recall is an important direct democratic device which allows the voters to call back
an elected officer or representative when he fails to carry out his obligations faithfully or
properly.
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2. What do you mean by Theocracy?
Theocracy technically means rule by God. The word ‘Theo’ means ‘God’ and ‘cracy’
means ‘rule’. In practice, it implies rule by priests. It originated from the theory that all
legitimate powers emanate from God.
3. Define Secular State?
Secular State does not recognize any religion as the state religion. It adopts neutral
policy in religious matters. It will not make or implement laws on religious grounds. It
accords equal status to its people.
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1. 1. What is a Parliamentary Government? Explain its features? 10Marks
Parliamentary government is one in which the executive (the council of ministers
headed by the Prime Minister) owes to the legislature for its formation, continuation and
survival in office. Britain and India are best examples of this government.
Definition
Prof. Garner defined parliamentary government as "a system in which the real
executive- the cabinet or ministry- is (i) immediately and legally responsible to the
legislature for its political policies and acts and (ii) immediately or ultimately responsible to
the electorate."
Features of Parliamentary Government
1. Nominal and Real Executive Heads
Parliamentary government comprises two types of executive heads, namely, nominal
and real. The nominal executive enjoys all powers only in name. E.g., The British Queen, the
President of India etc.
In practice, all the executive powers are exercised by a group of persons namely
Council of ministers with the Prime Minister as its head or leader.
2. Collective Responsibility
Ministers are collectively responsible to the lower house of the legislature. They take
policy decisions collectively under the leadership of the Prime Minister. Every minister is
individually and jointly responsible to the legislature for his omissions and commissions
during his tenure.
3. Political Homogeneity
In this system ministers normally belong to the same party. However, when no single
party is able to form the government due to lack of securing majority seats in the lower
house of the legislature, some parties join together as Alliance or some other coalitions.
4. Harmony between Executive and Legislature
Parliamentary government brings harmony between the executive and legislative
branches of government. This is possible due to the simultaneous membership of the
ministers in the two organs
5. Party Discipline
Every party in this system imposes discipline on its members by asking them to strictly
adhere to its ideology, principles and programmes. Such a policy makes the members both
in the party and government to fulfil their respective obligations with honesty, impartiality
and sincerity.
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6. Leadership of the Prime Minister
Parliamentary government is described as prime ministerial government. The Prime
Minister in this system acts as the real executive head of the government. He acts as the
leader of the majority party or coalition ministry in the lower house of the legislature.
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4. Bicameralism
In a federal state, we observe two chambers in the union legislature and some of the
provincial legislatures. The first or lower chamber represents the interests of the people.
The second chamber or upper house comprises the members representing the states.
5. Rigidity
Generally the constitution of a federation is very rigid. So it cannot be amended both
easily. The concurrence of the Centre and States is required for amending some of the
important provisions.
6. Independent Judiciary
Independent judiciary is another essential feature of a federal government. Such an
organization will settle disputes between the Centre and the States. Judges constitutionally
possess independent position.
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1. Write about Aristotle’s classification on Government?
Aristotle’s classification of Government
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