Notes on Political Theory: Two Approaches – Normative and Empirical

Political theory is a core area of political science that has recently emerged as an academic discipline.
Previously, individuals in this field were labeled as philosophers or scientists.
Political theory enables a critical perspective on societal existence beyond immediate concerns.
It can be considered synonymous with political science.

Distinction: Political theory vs. political science vs. political philosophy vs. political ideology.
- Political Science: Aims for generalizations and laws about politics.
- Political Theory: Reflects upon political phenomena and processes, questioning the nature of the ideal political order.
- Political Philosophy: Addresses questions like justice, the relationship between individuals and society, and seeks to establish normative principles.
- Political Ideology: A comprehensive doctrine that provides a complete theory of human nature and society, often dogmatic and resistant to critique.

Political theories respond to societal challenges and reflect changes in society.
Theories are timeless and can offer principles for improving societal conditions.
Political theorization is often stimulated by societal failures and the desire for improvement.
- Hegel’s Symbolism: "The owl of Minerva takes flight when the shadow of darkness falls."

Definitions of political theory vary, focusing on factual, causal, and valuational elements.
Political theory should be a coherent group of propositions explaining a class of political phenomena.

Institutional study varies by society as they reflect divergent ideas.
Ideas question the nature of reality, making the understanding of concepts essential for grasping societal character.

In the mid-20th century, political theory was deemed dead or in decline.
Critics pointed to a reliance on value judgements leading to a decline in constructive roles.
- Easton’s Critique: Historicism led to a loss of value-study in political theory.

In the 1930s, there was a renewed interest in defending liberal democratic theories against totalitarian ideologies.
Influential figures like Arendt, Adorno, and Strauss emphasized the need for a revival of classical political thought.

Political theory can be categorized broadly into historical, normative, empirical, and contemporary approaches.

Political theory is shaped by historical contexts and events.
Emphasizes the importance of tradition and historical understanding in theorization.

This approach seeks to determine ideal principles and values in politics.
Normative theorists advocate for philosophical speculation about values and moral alignments.
Critics point out the relativity and abstract nature of normative theories.

Driven by observational data and scientific methods, it seeks objective political theory.
Rejects normative theory due to its value-laden nature, aiming for value-free analysis and behavioral studies.

Emerged in the 1980s and critiques established traditions and universalism in political theory.
Key Aspects:
- Opposition to Universalism: Challenges the notion of universal principles in political values.
- Critique of Grand Narratives: Rejects overarching claims by political ideologies.
- Post-positivism: Argues for an inherently normative and engaged political theory.
- Empirical Comparative Methodology: Advocates for context-sensitive empirical approaches.

Political theory holds diverse meanings across traditions and drives human agency in politics.
The interconnection of political theory and scientific inquiry is suggested for a comprehensive understanding of societal issues.

Various scholars and their contributions to political theory are acknowledged, such as Sabine and Strauss, highlighting the evolution and critiques within the discipline.