Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Social sciences

Topic 5: Decision-Making Process and Sources

As established in accordance with the provisions of Article 288 TFEU, the competences of the Union are exercised through the action of its institutions. These institutions establish their will through rules of primary and secondary law. Given that the procedures for drafting these rules vary, it is necessary to define the governing system.

Treaty Revision Models

As Article 48 TEU stipulates, treaties may be amended according to two revision models:

• The Ordinary Procedure
• The Simplified Procedure

The Ordinary Procedure

The ordinary procedure is initiated when any government of a Member State, the European Parliament, or the Commission submits draft revisions of the treaties (TEU, TFEU, or TCEEA) to the Council.... Continue reading "EU Treaty Revision: Decision-Making and Procedures" »

National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP)

1. The National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) was first released in 2016 by the Government of India.
2. It is prepared by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
3. It provides a framework for disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
4. The plan focuses on all types of disasters – *natural* (floods, earthquakes, cyclones) and *man-made* (industrial accidents, chemical disasters).
5. It aligns with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030), ensuring international best practices are followed.
6. The plan emphasizes a “Build Back Better” approach during recovery and reconstruction.
7. It assigns specific roles and responsibilities to central, state, and local authorities.

Introduction to Global Governance

What is governance? The concept of governance has evolved, reflecting new processes and methods by which society is organized. According to Rhodes (2012), "Governance implies a change in the meaning of government, referring to new governing processes, changing order and rules, or new methods by which society is organized." Similarly, Mark Bevir (2012) states, "Governance encompasses all governing processes, whether carried out by a government, market, or network, at different levels and through tools such as laws, norms, power, or language. Governance differs from government by focusing less on the state and more on social practices."

The Evolution of Global Threats: Pandemic Responses

Global threats, such as... Continue reading "Global Governance Evolution: Pandemics, Wars, and Economic Shifts" »

Ideological Foundations of Government's Economic Role

Public finance economists examine both the actual effects of government taxation and spending, as well as what these activities should be. Views on government's economic role are shaped by ideological perspectives on the relationship between individuals and the state.

Individualistic vs. Collectivist Approaches

Two main approaches influence public policy and economic decisions:

1. Individualistic Approach: Prioritizes individual freedom and limits government intervention.
2. Collectivist Approach: Emphasizes collective well-being and a more significant government role.

The Organic View of Government

This perspective considers society as a living organism, where each individual is a part that contributes... Continue reading "Government's Economic Role: Ideologies & the Organic View" »

Shudras and the Social Order: Ambedkar's Critique

In Chapter 4 of Annihilation of Caste, B.R. Ambedkar provides a historical and sociological critique of the status of Shudras within the Hindu caste hierarchy. He begins by questioning the traditional Varna system, which classifies society into four major groups—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras—arguing that this classification is not based on merit or morality, but on birth-based discrimination. Ambedkar highlights that the Shudras were originally a part of the Kshatriya class, and therefore not meant to occupy the lowest rank in the Varna system. According to him, the downgrading of Shudras occurred due to historical conflict with Brahmins. The Brahmins, who controlled religious... Continue reading "Indian Social Justice: Caste, Disability, and Adivasi Voices" »

Terrorism: Understanding its Dynamics

Terrorism is the use of violence, intimidation, or coercion to achieve political, ideological, or social goals, often targeting civilians or non-combatants.

Types of Terrorism

1. Domestic Terrorism: Terrorism perpetrated within a country by its own citizens.
2. International Terrorism: Terrorism that involves multiple countries or has global implications.
3. State-Sponsored Terrorism: Terrorism supported or funded by a state or government.

Causes of Terrorism

1. Political Grievances: Political oppression, corruption, or lack of representation.
2. Ideological Extremism: Extremist ideologies, such as religious or nationalist extremism.
3. Social and Economic Factors: Poverty, unemployment, and social inequality.

Effects of Terrorism

1. Loss

Rajputs: Origins, Governance, and Legacy

Theories of Rajput Origin

1. Foreign Origin Theory: This theory suggests that the Rajputs were of foreign origin, specifically from Central Asia or Scythia.
2. Indigenous Origin Theory: This theory proposes that the Rajputs were of indigenous origin, emerging from the local population of India.
3. Mixed Origin Theory: This theory suggests that the Rajputs were of mixed origin, with both foreign and indigenous elements.

Rajput Administration System

1. Monarchical System: The Rajputs followed a monarchical system, with the king holding supreme power.
2. Feudal System: The Rajputs also followed a feudal system, with the king granting land and titles to his nobles and vassals.
3. Council of Ministers: The king was advised by a council

The Constitutional Monarchy (1789–1792)

The moderate bourgeoisie sought an agreement with the King to transform France into a constitutional and parliamentary monarchy.

• Abolished feudalism and approved the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, establishing individual freedoms and equality before the law and in taxation.
• Drafted a Constitution (1791) based on the separation of powers, national sovereignty, and legal equality, though the King reserved the right of veto.

Once the Constitution was approved, a Legislative Assembly was formed. This body drafted new laws to implement liberalism, forced the nobility to pay taxes, and abolished the guilds. The state promised to fund the practice of Catholicism, while the Civil Constitution