Question 1

What is John Rawls' Difference Principle in Political Theory?

Accepted Answer

John Rawls articulates the Difference Principle as the second part of his second principle of justice in A Theory of Justice (1971).

Key Tenets:
1. Justification of Inequalities: Social and economic inequalities are permissible only if they work to the maximum benefit of the least advantaged members of society.
2. The Original Position & Veil of Ignorance: Rational individuals behind a veil of ignorance (unaware of their social class, natural abilities, or intelligence) would choose principles that protect the worst-off (the maximin rule).
3. Lexical Priority: The Difference Principle is subordinate to the Greatest Equal Liberty Principle and the principle of Fair Equality of Opportunity. Basic liberties cannot be traded for economic gain.

Question 2

What are the core differences between Classical Realism and Structural Realism (Neorealism)?

Accepted Answer

In International Relations for CUET PG, understanding the shift from Hans Morgenthau to Kenneth Waltz is fundamental.

1. Human Nature vs Systemic Anarchy:
 Classical Realism (Morgenthau): Rooted in human nature. States seek power because human beings possess an innate animus dominandi (lust for power).
 Structural Realism (Waltz): Rooted in the international system's structure. States seek power or security because the international system is anarchic (no central authority), compelling states to adopt self-help strategies.

2. Units of Analysis:
 Classical realists analyze the foreign policy behaviors of individual statesmen and regimes.
 Structural realists treat states as "billiard balls" (unitary, functional actors) differentiated primarily by their relative capabilities (distribution of power).

Question 3

What are the key constitutional safeguards of Judicial Independence in India?

Accepted Answer

The Constitution of India ensures the independence of the Judiciary through several structural mechanisms:

1. Security of Tenure: Supreme Court and High Court judges hold office until the age of 65 and 62 respectively, and can only be removed through an impeachment procedure (Article 124(4)).
2. Charged Salaries: Salaries and pensions of judges are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India and cannot be varied to their disadvantage during tenure (Article 125(2)).
3. Ban on Practice After Retirement: Supreme Court judges are debarred from pleading before any court or authority in India (Article 124(7)).
4. Contempt of Court: The judiciary has the power to punish for contempt of court (Article 129 and 215) to maintain its authority.

CUET PG Political Science Doubts

What is John Rawls' Difference Principle in Political Theory?

What are the core differences between Classical Realism and Structural Realism (Neorealism)?

What are the key constitutional safeguards of Judicial Independence in India?

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