Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists
List-I (Methodological steps of Politics) - List-II (Purposes)
(A) Observation - (i) Establishing the relations and correlation between different actors or variable.
(B) Generalisation - (ii) Relies on sense-experience.
(C) Explanation - (iii) Possible outcomes and suggesting measures.
(D) Predications and Prescription - (iv) Giving reasons for the general rules.

Question

Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists 
List-I (Methodological steps of Politics) - List-II (Purposes) 
(A) Observation -  (i) Establishing the relations and correlation between different actors or variable.
(B) Generalisation - (ii) Relies on sense-experience.
(C) Explanation -  (iii) Possible outcomes and suggesting measures.
(D) Predications and Prescription -  (iv) Giving reasons for the general rules.

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:

The correct option is **1: A-(ii), B-(i), C-(iv), D-(iii)**. This matching correctly identifies the core purpose of each methodological step involved in building scientific political theory, especially within the context of behavioralism and post-behavioralism. Political science, particularly in its modern form, adopts a systematic approach akin to natural sciences to study political phenomena. The sequence often starts with observation and culminates in prediction and prescription.

(A) **Observation** is the foundational step. Its purpose is accurately captured by **(ii) Relies on sense-experience**. In the empirical study of politics, observation involves systematically gathering raw data on political behavior, institutions, and processes using the senses, often aided by tools like surveys, content analysis, or direct study. It is the initial collection of verifiable facts.

(B) **Generalisation** follows observation. Its purpose is **(i) Establishing the relations and correlation between different actors or variable**. Once numerous observations are made, researchers look for recurring patterns or relationships between variables (e.g., income level and voting behavior). This process of synthesizing specific observations into broader statements of correlation or tendency is called generalization, leading to the formation of hypotheses or laws.

(C) **Explanation** deals with the underlying causes. Its purpose is **(iv) Giving reasons for the general rules**. Explanation goes beyond simply noting a pattern (generalization); it seeks to answer *why* that pattern exists. It involves creating theories or models that provide causal linkages, thus giving reasons for the established general rules or correlations found during the generalization phase.

(D) **Predications and Prescription** are the ultimate goals of theoretical knowledge. Their purpose is **(iii) Possible outcomes and suggesting measures**. Prediction involves forecasting future political outcomes based on current theories and observed variables. Prescription, which relates to the normative element of political theory, involves using the established knowledge to suggest practical measures or policies (what *ought* to be done) to achieve desired goals or influence possible outcomes.

The incorrect option is 2: **A-(i), B-(iv), C-(ii), D-(iii)**. This option incorrectly matches Observation (A) with (i) Establishing relations and correlation. Establishing relations belongs to Generalization. It also incorrectly matches Generalisation (B) with (iv) Giving reasons for general rules, which is the definition of Explanation, and incorrectly matches Explanation (C) with (ii) Relies on sense-experience, which is the definition of Observation.

The incorrect option is 3: **A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(i), D-(iv)**. While A-(ii) is correct, the rest of the matches are scrambled. This option incorrectly links Generalisation (B) to (iii) Possible outcomes and suggesting measures, which is the role of Predications and Prescription. Furthermore, it incorrectly links Explanation (C) to (i) Establishing the relations and correlation, which is the primary function of Generalisation, leading to a fundamentally flawed understanding of the scientific method in politics.

The incorrect option is 4: **A-(i), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(iv)**. This option is incorrect as it begins by misidentifying Observation (A) with (i) Establishing relations and correlation, which is the result of Generalization, not the initial gathering of facts. It also mixes Generalization (B) with (iii) Possible outcomes and suggesting measures (Prediction/Prescription), and Explanation (C) with (ii) Relies on sense-experience (Observation), thereby failing to recognize the sequential and logical relationship between these four essential steps of scientific inquiry.