2024 · Q57
Political analysis involves both normative and empirical approaches. Which of the following statements is/are correct about the two approaches?
- 1Knowledge acquired through the empirical approach is value-loaded.
- 2Knowledge acquired through the normative approach is objectively neutral.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
General KnowledgeIndian Polity and Governance
- A1 only
- B2 only
- CBoth 1 and 2
- DNeither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: the empirical approach to political analysis aspires to be value-free and objectively verifiable, not value-loaded. Statement 2 is incorrect: the normative approach is explicitly value-loaded — it deals with what ought to be, evaluating politics against moral and ethical standards — and is not objectively neutral. Since neither statement is correct, the answer is (D).