Political Theory: Equality Video Lecture | NCERT Video Summary: Class 6 to Class 12 (English) - UPSC

Ans. Political theory is a branch of social science that aims to understand and analyze the principles and concepts that govern political systems and behavior. It examines various political ideologies, institutions, and power relations to provide insights into how societies are organized and governed.

Ans. In political theory, equality refers to the idea that all individuals should have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment within a society. It emphasizes the absence of discrimination or favoritism based on factors such as race, gender, social class, or religion. The concept of equality aims to ensure fairness and justice in the distribution of resources and opportunities.

Ans. Political theory addresses the issue of inequality by exploring different perspectives and approaches to achieve a more equal society. This may involve analyzing the role of the state in redistributing resources, promoting social welfare programs, or advocating for affirmative action policies. Political theorists also examine the impact of power dynamics and social structures on perpetuating or challenging inequality.

Ans. Some key theories of equality in political theory include: - Egalitarianism: This theory argues for the equal distribution of resources and opportunities to ensure fairness and social justice. - Libertarianism: This theory emphasizes individual freedom and limited government intervention, which may lead to unequal outcomes. - Utilitarianism: This theory focuses on maximizing overall happiness or utility, which may result in unequal distribution if it benefits the majority. - Rawlsian theory of justice: This theory emphasizes the importance of equal basic rights and opportunities while allowing for some inequalities that benefit the least advantaged.

Ans. Political theory contributes to policy-making regarding equality by providing conceptual frameworks and normative principles that guide decision-making. It helps policymakers critically analyze the impact of policies on different groups, evaluate trade-offs between competing values, and identify potential unintended consequences. Political theories also inform debates and discussions on the desirability and feasibility of specific policies aimed at reducing inequality.