Introduction:
Yes, you can certainly use current examples from national politics to illustrate concepts from political theory in Political Science and International Relations (PSIR). Political theory is the study of ideas and concepts that shape political systems and practices, and using real-world examples can enhance our understanding of these theories.

Benefits of using current examples:
1. Relevance: National politics provides real-time examples that are directly related to the concepts being studied, making the theoretical ideas more relatable and understandable.
2. Application: Illustrating political theory concepts with current examples helps students see how these theories are applied in practice and how they shape political behavior and decision-making.
3. Engagement: Using current examples from national politics can make the learning experience more engaging and interesting for students, as they can connect theoretical ideas with real-life situations.
4. Critical thinking: Analyzing current examples requires students to critically evaluate the applicability and limitations of political theory concepts, fostering analytical skills and deeper understanding.

Examples of using national politics to illustrate political theory:
1. Democracy: You can analyze the functioning of democratic institutions and processes in your country, such as elections, political parties, and public participation, to illustrate the principles and challenges of democratic theory. For example, examining how different political parties compete for power and how citizens exercise their rights to vote and express their opinions can illuminate concepts like pluralism, representation, and deliberative democracy.
2. Power and authority: Current examples of political leaders and their exercise of power can be used to explore concepts of authority, legitimacy, and the relationship between the state and its citizens. For instance, studying the actions of a president or prime minister and the public's reaction to their decisions can shed light on theories of political leadership and the sources of political power.
3. International relations: Analyzing current foreign policy decisions and diplomatic relations can help illustrate concepts such as realism, liberalism, and constructivism in international relations theory. For example, examining the dynamics between countries in a conflict or cooperation scenario can highlight the relevance of different theoretical perspectives in understanding state behavior.

Conclusion:
Using current examples from national politics is a valuable approach to illustrate concepts from political theory in PSIR. It adds relevance, application, engagement, and fosters critical thinking. By analyzing real-world situations, students can deepen their understanding of political theory concepts and develop a more holistic perspective on the complexities of political systems and practices.