Provide a comparative analysis of behavioural and institutional approach to the study of political theory.
How the answer moves
The flow snapshot — the routes in, the body, the counter-view and the routes out.
Route 1 two stages — institutional (formal structures) vs behavioural (actual conduct).
Route 2 structure vs behaviour — each one face, neither complete.
Institutional: Van Dyke’s definition → organs + constitution → Aristotle, Bryce → behavioural reaction: Merriam → Easton “actual human being to the centre” → contrast: macro-formal vs micro-scientific; state vs individual.
Each incomplete — institutionalism too descriptive (weak for developing societies); behaviouralism neglects values (Strauss); technique over theory (Parsons).
Route 1 complementary, not rival — institution = skeleton, behaviour = life within.
Route 2 form + conduct = the complete study.
Model answer
Handwritten, in the form it would be written in the examination hall.
Also asked on this head
Political Theory — 10 questions in the Vault.
- Comment on decline of political theory. (150 words)
- Comment on Post-Behavioural approach. (150 words)
- Discuss the significance of a normative approach to political theory.
How this is taught
The same flow snapshot, built for every head of the syllabus, with the answer written in class.
The first session of Foundation 2027 is published in full.
Six programmes across three levels.