(a) To study the then existing political systems
(b) To develop an empirical science of politics
(c) To arrive at the Ideal type
(d) To apply abstract ideas in practice
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Aristotle's Comparative Method Contributions
Aristotle significantly advanced the comparative method in political science. His approach focused on observing and analyzing the real world.
Studying Existing Political Systems
A key aspect of Aristotle's work was his empirical investigation of actual political systems. He famously collected and studied the constitutions of over 150 Greek city-states.
- This provided a basis for understanding variations in governance.
- It allowed for classification and analysis of different political structures.
Developing Empirical Politics
Aristotle's method aimed to establish politics as an empirical science, grounded in observation rather than purely abstract speculation. His analysis sought to understand how political systems functioned in practice.
- This focus on observable reality distinguishes his approach.
- It laid the groundwork for systematic political inquiry.
Addressing Other Options
Aristotle's contributions are best described by points (a) and (b). Let's look at why the other options are less accurate:
- (c) To arrive at the Ideal type: The concept of the "Ideal type" is more closely associated with the sociologist Max Weber, not Aristotle. Aristotle sought to identify the best achievable forms of government based on existing examples, not necessarily a theoretical ideal type.
- (d) To apply abstract ideas in practice: This approach is more characteristic of Plato, Aristotle's teacher, who focused on ideal forms and philosophical concepts. Aristotle, conversely, grounded his political analysis in empirical observation.
Therefore, Aristotle's primary comparative contributions involved studying existing political systems and developing an empirical science of politics.
Important Questions from Comparative Political Analysis
Who gave the principle of non-interference?
Whose opinion is that industrial development is the pre-condition for political development?
Who first used the word political socialization?
Which one of the following did Almond not recognize as a stage in the process of change in a political system?
Which of the following is true regarding Resource Mobilisation Theory?
I. It is an outcome of rational choice theory.
II. It is based on the assumption that individuals’ actions are motivated randomly not by any preference.
III. The theory purported to show that the success of a movement depended on the resources available to be used.
