Political Science and Political Theory

What is Weber's definition of politics?

• art of manipulating public opinion for personal gain.

• striving to share power or influence the distribution of power

• systematic imposition of a specific ideology on a society.

• pursuit of individualistic interests without regard for societal needs

What are the three sources of legitimacy?

• rational-legal authority

• religious dogma

• traditional authority

• charisma

• military strength

What is the foundation of every state according to Weber?

• monopoly of the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory.

• strength of cultural heritage and tradition.

• economic prosperity and wealth distribution.

• political charisma and popularity of its leaders.

Weber suggests that modern states are characterized by

• tradition

• rational-legal authority

• charismatic leadership

• kleptocracy

What makes people obedient according to Weber?

• belief in the legitimacy of the authority giving commands

• fear of punishment or reprisal.

• economic incentives and material rewards.

• cultural conformity and societal pressure

What does Weber define as the 'Ethic of Responsibility'?

• pursuing personal gain in politics

• acting according to one's conscience

• considering the consequences of one's actions

• following a set of predetermined ethical guidelines

According to Weber, what drives the 'iron cage' of rationalization in modern society?

• traditional beliefs

• charismatic authority

• bureaucratic rationality

• emotional decision-making

What is the most important quality of a political leader?

In Dahl's polyarchy, what role do citizens play in decision-making?

• observers

• passive recipients

• active participants

• advisors to the ruling class

What does Dahl identify as an indicator of political democracy within polyarchy?

• consensus among political leaders

• existence of a single dominant political party

• free and fair elections

• strong military control