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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate24 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'Constitution: Why and How?' discusses the significance and functions of a constitution, how it embodies the people's aspirations, and the historical context of the Indian Constitution's creation. It elaborates on how constitutions establish the structure of government, set limits on governmental powers, and enable governments to pursue societal goals. The chapter also highlights the deliberative process in framing the Indian Constitution and the diverse inputs that shaped it.
Key Topics
- •Functions of a Constitution
- •Creation of the Indian Constitution
- •Principle of Deliberation
- •Separation of Powers
- •Directive Principles of State Policy
- •Constitution as a living document
- •Comparative constitutional insights
- •National identity and democratic values
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the meaning and functions of a constitution.
- ✓Analyze how the Indian Constitution was framed and the principles guiding its creation.
- ✓Examine the process of deliberation and debate in shaping the Constitution.
- ✓Recognize the importance of the separation of powers in democratic governance.
- ✓Identify the role of Directive Principles in shaping state policies.
- ✓Reflect on the adaptability and enduring nature of the Constitution.
Questions in Chapter
Which of these is not a function of the constitution? a. It gives a guarantee of the rights of the citizen. b. It marks out different spheres of power for different branches of government. c. It ensures that good people come to power. d. It gives expression to some shared values.
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Which of the following is a good reason to conclude that the authority of the constitution is higher than that of the parliament? a. The constitution was framed before the parliament came into being. b. The constitution makers were more eminent leaders than the members of the parliament. c. The constitution specifies how parliament is to be formed and what are its powers. d. The constitution cannot be amended by the parliament.
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Additional Practice Questions
Why is the Indian Constitution considered a 'living' document?
mediumAnswer: The Indian Constitution is considered a 'living' document because it balances the need for change with stability, allowing adaptability over time without losing its core principles. This adaptability ensures its lasting relevance and respect.
Discuss the principle of deliberation as used in the Indian Constituent Assembly.
mediumAnswer: The principle of deliberation in the Indian Constituent Assembly involved extensive debates and discussions, allowing members to propose, argue, and refine each clause of the Constitution. This process ensured that the Constitution reflected diverse viewpoints and was built on reasoned arguments.
Explain the concept of separation of powers in the context of the Constitution.
mediumAnswer: Separation of powers divides government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from exercising the core functions of another. This ensures a system of checks and balances, where the legislative, executive, and judiciary functions are separate but interdependent.
What are the Directive Principles of State Policy, and how do they impact governance?
hardAnswer: Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the framing of laws by the government. They are not enforceable by any court, but they aim to ensure social and economic justice and set the path for India to become a welfare state.
Compare and contrast the provisions of the Indian Constitution with those borrowed from other countries.
hardAnswer: The Indian Constitution borrowed various elements from other countries: the parliamentary system from Britain, the Charter of Fundamental Rights from the US, and the Directive Principles from Ireland. These borrowings were adapted to fit the specific needs and context of India.