Which one of the following is the oldest approach of political theory?

Correct option is A

The Philosophical Approach is considered the oldest approach to political theory. This approach is rooted in the tradition of ancient philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, who sought to address fundamental questions about the nature of justice, the ideal state, and the role of individuals within society. It emphasizes normative and speculative inquiry into political concepts, values, and ethical standards, aiming to provide insights into how politics should ideally function.
Key details:
1. Plato's works like The Republic and Aristotle's Politics are foundational texts of the philosophical approach.
2. It deals with abstract principles such as justice, equality, freedom, and rights.
3. This approach prioritizes ethical and normative considerations over empirical analysis.
4. Philosophical reasoning is used to evaluate political structures and behaviors.
5. It often overlaps with moral philosophy and examines the ethical underpinnings of political ideologies.
Information Booster
· Philosophical inquiry remains central to many debates in modern political theory, including human rights, democracy, and social justice.
· The approach laid the foundation for subsequent methodologies in political science and theory.
· Contemporary scholars like John Rawls (justice theory) and Amartya Sen (capability approach) extend the legacy of this tradition.
· Critics argue that the philosophical approach lacks practical applicability and empirical grounding compared to modern scientific approaches.
· The approach contrasts with behavioral, institutional, and empirical methodologies, which emphasize observation and data-driven analysis.