Pangasinan State University

Bayambang Campus

Bayambang, Pangasinan

SY 2019-2020

______________________________________________________________________

Name: Jasmin B. Turalba Assignment

Course: BPA III-1 Professor: Sir Jeffrey O. De Asis

Political System Theory

Political Theory helps us better understand the concepts that have shaped our politics,
including freedom, equality, individuality, democracy and justice. Importantly, Political
Theory is the part of Political Science that explores what a better political world would
look like and how we can create it. Political Theory thus frequently involves critiques of
our present political reality, and may even take explicitly political positions.

Indeed, whether we study philosophical treatises, political pamphlets or speeches,

Political Theory always involves a reflection on one’s own and others’ political principles.
The hope is that such critical reflection can contribute to all of us becoming more
engaged citizens.
 Pangasinan State University

Bayambang Campus

Bayambang, Pangasinan

SY 2019-2020

Group Theory

a) Public policy is the product of a group struggle from the organized masses.

b) A group can become a political interest group. A political interest group can
make demands or influence the demands of society on an institution of government

c) A group should consists the following attributes: good leadership, good

status/reputation, resources, sources, social skills and a positive rapport with decisions
makers

d) Policy will reflect the interest of the dominant group

e) Disadvantage of group theory The poor and disadvantages are not represented
Poor construction of the group/lack focus or purpose.

Elite Theory

a) Reflects the values and preference of the elite

b) The ruling elite has presence and influence of the governmental decision-making

c) Society is divided between the haves and have nots The elite is the selected few
but does not reflex the needs of the masses

d) Elite consensus includes private enterprise, private property, and favors minimal
government intervention – big business.

e) Focus on the role of leadership in policy formation, the few govern the many

Institutionalism Theory

a) The study of government institutions or organizations

b) Public policy is authoritatively determined, implemented and enforced by

institutions
 Pangasinan State University

Bayambang Campus

Bayambang, Pangasinan

SY 2019-2020

c) No outside influence in the policy making

d) Types of institutions: Congress, Executive Branch, political parties

e) A public policy created from institutional theory – No child Left Behind Act

Rational Choice Theory

Rational choice theory states that individuals use rational calculations to make rational choices
and achieve outcomes that are aligned with their own personal objectives. These results are
also associated with an individual’s best, self-interests. Using rational choice theory is
expected to result in outcomes that provide people with the greatest benefit and satisfaction
given the choices they have available.