key term - Normative Approach

Definition

The normative approach in political science involves the examination of political phenomena through the lens of values, principles, and ideals. This approach focuses on what ought to be, rather than solely on what is, in the realm of politics and government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The normative approach in political science is concerned with the study of political ideals, values, and principles, rather than solely empirical observations.
2. This approach often involves making judgments about the legitimacy, justice, or desirability of political systems, policies, and institutions.
3. Normative political analysis can draw on various philosophical and ethical frameworks, such as utilitarianism, deontology, or virtue ethics.
4. The normative approach is often contrasted with the positive approach, which focuses on the objective, empirical study of political phenomena.
5. Normative political analysis can inform prescriptive recommendations for political reform or the design of new political institutions.

Review Questions

• Explain how the normative approach in political science differs from the positive approach.
  • The normative approach in political science focuses on the examination of political phenomena through the lens of values, principles, and ideals, whereas the positive approach emphasizes the objective, empirical study of political phenomena as they exist, without making value judgments or prescriptions. The normative approach is concerned with what ought to be, while the positive approach is concerned with what is.
• Describe the role of ethical considerations in the normative approach to political science.
  • The normative approach in political science often involves the examination of the moral and philosophical foundations of political decisions, actions, and institutions. This includes the consideration of ethical frameworks, such as utilitarianism, deontology, or virtue ethics, to assess the legitimacy, justice, or desirability of political phenomena. The normative approach recognizes that political issues are inherently value-laden and that ethical deliberation is essential for understanding and evaluating political systems, policies, and institutions.
• Analyze how the normative approach can inform prescriptive recommendations for political reform or the design of new political institutions.
  • The normative approach in political science can provide a foundation for making prescriptive recommendations for political reform or the design of new political institutions. By examining political phenomena through the lens of values, principles, and ideals, the normative approach can identify areas where current political systems or institutions fall short and propose alternative structures or policies that better align with desired normative goals, such as justice, equality, or democratic participation. The normative approach recognizes that political decisions and institutions should be evaluated not only on their empirical outcomes but also on their adherence to fundamental ethical and philosophical principles.

Related terms

Positive Approach: The positive approach in political science emphasizes the objective, empirical study of political phenomena as they exist, without making value judgments or prescriptions.

Prescriptive Analysis: Prescriptive analysis in political science involves making recommendations or proposals for how political systems, policies, or institutions should be structured or reformed based on normative considerations.

Ethical Considerations: Ethical considerations in the normative approach to political science involve the examination of the moral and philosophical foundations of political decisions, actions, and institutions.