Political Science and IR Optional 2024 Paper I
  1. (a) Behavioural approach to Political Science
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The behavioural approach to Political Science emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily in the United States, as a reaction against traditional institutional and historical approaches. It sought to make the study of politics more scientific, empirical, and objective. Key proponents like David Easton advocated for a focus on observable political behaviour of individuals and groups, rather than just formal institutions. This approach emphasized the use of scientific methods, including quantitative analysis, surveys, and statistical data, to develop verifiable theories and generalizations about political phenomena. It aimed to be value-free, separating facts from values, and interdisciplinary, drawing insights from psychology, sociology, and economics. While it significantly advanced empirical research and methodological rigor in political science, it faced criticism for potentially over-emphasizing quantification, neglecting normative questions, and sometimes failing to capture the broader context and meaning of political actions. Despite its limitations, the behavioural revolution profoundly influenced the discipline, shifting its focus towards systematic analysis and the study of actual political processes.