Introduction to Political Theory

Questions

1. Is it possible to devise political concepts that have no normative implications,
   and are thus value-free in character?


2. Can one make a statement about politics without theorising at the same time?


3. Should political theory embrace or seek to avoid controversy?


4. Do teachers of political theory make practical political judgements?


5. Is the use of logic and the resort to factual evidence ethically neutral?

References

Gallie, W. (1955) ‘Essentially Contested Concepts’ Proceedings of the Aristotelian Society

56, 167–98.

Hoffman, J. (1988) State, Power and DemocracyBrighton: Harvester-Wheatsheaf.

Hume, D. (1972) A Treatise of Human NatureBooks 2 and 3, London: Fontana/Collins.

xviii Introduction