, PLC1501 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 1 2026 -
DUE 10 April 2026;; 100% trusted ,comprehensive and complete
reliable solution with clear explanation.
Question 1
“Various theories have been developed to explain the origin of politics
and why the individual finds him/herself in a political environment”
(Study guide 2002:31-32).
In light of the above, discuss rationalistic theory as an explanation for
the origin of politics.
[10]
Answer
Rationalistic theory explains the origin of politics as the result of
deliberate and logical decisions made by individuals. According to this
theory, politics did not arise naturally or by divine command, but
through human reasoning and conscious agreement. Individuals are
viewed as rational beings who recognised that living without rules or
authority would lead to conflict, insecurity, and instability. To overcome
these problems, they decided to create political structures that would
promote order and protect their interests.
This idea is closely associated with social contract thinkers such as
Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Hobbes
argued that in the “state of nature” life would be chaotic and violent, so
individuals agreed to surrender some of their freedoms to a sovereign
authority in exchange for security. Locke believed that people formed
governments to protect their natural rights, such as life, liberty, and
DUE 10 April 2026;; 100% trusted ,comprehensive and complete
reliable solution with clear explanation.
Question 1
“Various theories have been developed to explain the origin of politics
and why the individual finds him/herself in a political environment”
(Study guide 2002:31-32).
In light of the above, discuss rationalistic theory as an explanation for
the origin of politics.
[10]
Answer
Rationalistic theory explains the origin of politics as the result of
deliberate and logical decisions made by individuals. According to this
theory, politics did not arise naturally or by divine command, but
through human reasoning and conscious agreement. Individuals are
viewed as rational beings who recognised that living without rules or
authority would lead to conflict, insecurity, and instability. To overcome
these problems, they decided to create political structures that would
promote order and protect their interests.
This idea is closely associated with social contract thinkers such as
Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Hobbes
argued that in the “state of nature” life would be chaotic and violent, so
individuals agreed to surrender some of their freedoms to a sovereign
authority in exchange for security. Locke believed that people formed
governments to protect their natural rights, such as life, liberty, and
