Welcome to our blog discussion:
There are four elements to this alternative learning activity.
1. Two elements fall under the topic:
a. Political Theory and Political Economy
b. Political Theory and Social Theory
2. And the other two elements fall under the the task of this activity.
Based on the readings provided on the above given topic, you are to post either:
a. Your analysis of the text.
b. Your proposed theory in relation to any of the two topics.
For based on a previous reading, John Meynard Keynes provided a theory on how the state can steer its economy away from deppression by propossing government spending as a tool to stimulate monetary flow.
You may point out a particular problem and posit your own, original theories.
Don't forget to limit posts to 5 sentences.
and label the beginning of your post with
surname, first name, section.
You may respond to posts of your classmates, thus bringing about a proper discourse.
Marks will be given as follows
12 pts insight/analysis
8 pts grammar
total of 20 pts
Online classroom of Ronald Castillo y Maglaqui, Professor of Political Science at the University of Santo Tomas - Faculty of Arts and Letters. But for the time being, starting 2022, this blog serves as a student's public notebook of thoughts while he undertakes his international PhD in Asia Pacific Studies at National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan. Reach him through rmcastillo@ust.edu.ph
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Galang, Mico, 2POL3
ReplyDeleteWith democratic-capitalism the dominating political-economic system in the world, political theory should take into account that economic affairs are at the fore of the concerns for these regimes. Elkin's article argues that big businessmen would have a special access to government officials as their decisions can affect the economic health of the nation and, inevitably, the capitalists work to serve their interests and overlook that of the public. Rehashing a classical argument, Elkin claimed that in order for the aforementioned system to continue working within the framework of democracy and not merely to serve as a tool of big business, there should be a well-ordered middle class. This class would tend to balance the interests of the capitalists and those on the lower strata. Given their value for hard work, they are likely to understand the importance of economic security and hence oppose any government measure favoring big business. Thus, with a well-ordered middle class, Madison’s earlier argument that a government anchored on the principle of separation of powers would work to broaden the interests of the propertied since certain portions of such significant strata of the society would urge lawmakers to pursue actions focused on attaining a measure of relative political and economic equality in line with democratic principles.
Calayan, Jose Angelo Gabriel S.
ReplyDelete2POL1
The concepts of political economy and social theory in relation with the concept of political theory are very essential in the field of cultural studies and in environmental politics. They both focus and give emphasis on individuals and the society regarding on how to solve such certain issues such as the problems in the economy and society that would yield social change. They are also both interconnected in the government especially in the concept of political economy regarding the relationship between businessmen such as the controllers of productive assets, worker-owners and private-owners with the state authorities in terms of property rights, discretions for economic prosperity and the inducement of businessmen. In other words, in relation to social theory, individuals are very essential in the environment for addressing economic and social problems. Political economy deals with real cases in the society regarding economic issues and social theory deals with the real life regarding relevant social issues and events.
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ReplyDeleteDel Castillo, Alec Jeane G., 2POL1
ReplyDeleteAs I analyze the relationship between political theory and social theory base on the article “Political Theory and Social Theory” by Helliwell and Hindess, I came to conclude that their study is dominated by the figure of man which is, an epistemic, cultural and political one according to the article. Man belongs to the society that is guided by norms where they acquire their subjectivity and behavior according to conventional social theory. If so, man’s political outlooks and beliefs are directly affected by the society and in relation, politics is also an important aspect of the society for it organizes and regulates the laws in it in the form of government. The state in turn provides the framework of laws and maintains the security for the society. This shows that works of social theorists and political theorists will be in contribution to the welfare of one another and with consideration and involvement of the other.
Panday, Francis Miguel F., 2POL3
ReplyDeleteIn explaining and theorizing the modern world according to Elkin was that political theorists should consider political economy because for Marx, capitalism is best in molding sociopolitical environment. In democratic states, political theory should be a theory of political economy because economic growth is what these polities are after of. Capitalism emasculates democracy: what alarming in this argument is that capitalism manifestly produces a class of owners of large-scale capital who serves as a dominating class that operates the political and economic life of the society. Through Madison’s perception of election and separation of powers, the interests of the capitalists will be broaden, and this will happen if there is a well-ordered, secure and confident middle class. Nevertheless, since big businesses are more closely related to the government- that makes them influential, in a way that they affect the economic behavior and status of a nation- which the ordinary citizens lack, however, the goal of this is to broaden the interests of the middle class to create a better and more balanced economy.
Del Mundo, Angelo Raphael B. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteIn my Analysis of "Political Theory and Political Economy" by Elkin, Elkin wanted to emphasize here the connection of democracy and capitalism. As discussed in the text, democracy and capitalism work side by side, but there is a problem, that the capitalist interest is focused only for the benefit of itself. Elkin pointed out that there should be the widening of interest, meaning interest of the capitalist should not only focus on the benefit of "itself" but it should also support and benefit the society. The interest of the propertied should not present any problems to the propertyless, instead they should widen their interest so that the propertied could actually support the propertyless. If we consider ourselves as a democratic society "government for the people by the people", then our economy should also be the same.
Dionisio, Ma. Cheriña S.B., 2POL1
ReplyDeleteAccording to the article "Political Theory and Social Theory" by Helliwell and Hindess, both concepts are intertwined with each other thus cannot be separated although political theory focuses on normative issues related to political life while the other is both normative and explanatory. Both political theory and social theory share an intellectual history, cultural origin and is dominated by the figure of man, an epistemic, cultural and political construct, that gave rise to the conception of human sociality involving the unities held together by shared values and concepts that is central to the work of both theories. Through the unities (states, societies, nations, etc.), society affects political life through an individual's character and behavior and likewise, politics affects society through the works of government, role of state (maintain security, provide framework of laws, etc.) and decisions made bt the individuals concerned. The society is said to be the insitutionalization of central values because societies institutionalize the ideas of a person as citizen that are interrelated and so the citizen being free and equal and a fully cooperating member of society. There should be a give and take in political theory and social theory: the state provides what the society needs and so the society benefits from it and the society does the work, through the citizens, in order to have security, laws, or in short, a sort of payment for the benefits given by the state to the society.
Mangao, Michael Kevin Edgar B., 2pol3
ReplyDeleteStephen L. Elkin's stand on the relation between Democracy and Capitalism and how these two aspects of political life dominate the majority of the world gives us a precise outlook on how we can balance and control our economy giving a fair share of voice to even that of the lower class which is the aim of Democracy in the first place. It is implied that a country's economy is ruled by a rather imperialistic strata of those who 'control large scale productive assets' or what others dashingly call 'The Big Boys' and how, by their properties and wealth, they can often voice out their own personal sentiments disregarding that of the will of the middle class and that of, as Mico Galang said, 'those on the lower strata'. Again, this is not the aim of Democracy, rather, this scenario depicts a reverse to a time when the wealthy only has the right to dictate what is to become of the society, an Aristocratic Regime at it's best. This is where the middle class come into place by acting as a balance to the interests of capitalists, as well as, selflessly acting as the voice of the often unheard sentiments of the lower class and these activities are not left unsupported however by the separated power of the government which acts as a filter to certain proposed laws and orders and find what is just to promote in which the middle class proposals often prevail. With a middle class that battles for equality within the political state and a government that utilizes three independent bodies, equality will never be as farfetched as it is.
Baysa, Lynk Juren 2POL3
ReplyDeletePolitical and economic sector can hardly be separated since that they both occupied a specific portion of our lives: to promote order and welfare for the society. Both of them having their own interest, then makes some difference on their perspective once they are observed in the field of government, but the role they played are both important since that they both affect one another. It is discussed in Elkin’s work that the economic sector are important players in the political arena, they can be given privilege in ruling since that they have the capital and their economic power can be converted to a high extent of political influence and interest. It is important to take note that the influence of the capitalist should be filtered in the political arena, because one cannot rule effectively once the person has 2 modes in governing, a capitalist should leave any form of business away from his interest once he is now playing the role of a politician, what should remain is his capacity to promote progress for the welfare of the society. An effective politics produce strong economic sector and strict economic sector produced a behaved political arena, ties between the two should be balanced in order to produce good competition among the two.
Fulgueras, Philip Gerald S. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteIn my analysis of Elkin's reading Political theory tends to give political economy some guidelines because they give normative insights on how to establish a good and prosperous economic system. Keynes gave a system which probably solve the inefficiency of the private sector to achieve macroeconomic success for the state and it's by the government controlling the private sector by imposing policies that will limit the private sector to spend their assets, to some extent, so the state can achieve an economic prosperity through the government's policies. Thus problems arise for the essence of capitalism, in which it is cling to democracy for democracy gave the ability of the state to have a private sector and an immunity to he government to control,therefore losing a democratic perspective in our economy, giving power to the government to manipulate to their advantage the private sector for the sake of themselves, and the private sector are deprived from using their money freely. This system is appropriate for those governments that has no or minimal history of corruption but with the others, i don't think that the private sector can trust the government with their money to spend so in my analysis of this system, in order for this system to succeed we must consider one's (state) background in order for it to be successful thus putting in mind the cultural,political,and historical aspects of the state for other countries had its government control their economy but still they are prosperous but to some which are free from the government are on the downside this means that every state has its own unique formula of economic system for them to be prosperous it's just the matter of finding the right 'formula' for them to succeed.
Sanchez, Patrick Luis A. 2POL1
DeleteAfter analyzing Elkin's "Political Theory and Political Economy", it shows us how connected democracy and capitalism is to each other especially with many states in the 21st century have democratic and capitalistic traits. These two traits must be of service to the state in order to further its development geared for success which unfortunately is quite difficult because many government officials and businessmen tend to focus on personal gain. A great example would be the Chalmers Johnson's "Developmental State Model" in his book "MITI and the Japanese Miracle" where we would find the Japanese government successfully attempted to make a state controlled economy set for not only recovering from its wounds from the Second World War but also becoming the most prosperous country in Asia during the time. Quoting from Mr. Fulgeras "consider one's (state) background" this would mean that the Developmental state model will not work on other states because of too many differences as compared to Japan with Taiwan as an example of using the Small Medium Enterprises (S.M.E.) different but based on the Dev. State Model which managed to allow it to compete in the world market without too much competition. Because of Elkin's readings, we further understand the issues on Political Economy and Political Theory interconnected.
Garcia, Gabriel Dionise R., 2Pol1
DeleteConsidering the article of Political Theory and Political Economy by Elkin and Political Theory and Social Theory by Helliwell and Hindess, I agree to Mr. Fulgueras and Mr. Sanchez that we should take into consideration the state’s background, or shall we say, framework, not just the government framework, but also the societal framework, in order to be successful. Democracy and capitalism goes really hand in hand to success and we can see how success took place on countries mostly with liberal backgrounds, where the power of the people prevails, a good example is the United States of America where the citizens in these countries lived without too much intervention of the government and they work hard for their own successes. However, economic success is not a monopoly of democracy and capitalism combine, as Mr. Sanchez explained about the success of Japan which is a bit similar and related to the success of Korea, Taiwan, and to some extent, China. These Asian Countries used the power of the state and intervened to the economy in different ways and provided success, this state’s intervention was made possible by their socially-cohesive citizenries. We can see the interrelations of Political Theory, the Economy, and the Society upon the success of a state and with these three; we should not be bounded by a popularity of a model for success.
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ReplyDeleteTec, Natasha Kim R. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteAfter I have read the enlightening text of Elkin on the Political Theory and The Political Economy, I have profound many ideas in relation to a proposition of a theory with regards to the subject matter. I understand that democratic polity could not be fully disenfranchised with the ruling capitalist class as focal members of its development that is why I propose that both should reach a merger between their affairs. The democratic polity should allow the capitalist to develop and propagate their own interest, serving as a helping hand to fasten its propagation. While on the other hand for the capitalist class they should have a kinship with the democratic polity when it comes to the latter’s policies and suggested economic frameworks, in order for the capitalist class not to be fully independent on its decisions. In my proposition there is nothing wrong with the blending of these two as seen in the leading countries that serve as a good exemplar in this situation. Enriching the democratic polity expands the rule of the different groups in the society to articulate their demands, It gives them the chance to affect the before unyielding static monotony of the basic political economy. You need democratic polity to further expand the interest of the capitalist class and other influential members of the political strata as well.There is nothing wrong with a state that is fully ruled by middle class capitalist for they represent the important foundation for the states future. A good future would encompass as well the other classes.
Cortes, Ma. Lissa Victoria L. 2pol3
ReplyDeletePolitical theorist tend to neglect the importance of the relation of political theory to political economy, giving less attention to political economy as an influential part of the political life. In theorizing about the contemporary world, theorists should take into consideration political economy for according to Marx, capitalism is the most influential force at work in shaping the contemporary sociopolitical world. Much so in democracies, political theory should be part of political economy because at the center of political life there were these economic questions and activities. It arises that capitalism affects democracy in the sense that capitalism tends to create class of owners that tend to form a major ruling class that directs the political life of the society. With that, this class has the tendency to serve their interest other than that of the majority of citizens or the lower class. According to Elkin, there should be a well organized middle class, so that there would be a balance in the system. Given that the economic sector plays a major role in the political arena, the government has the right to control this sector for the progress of the whole system. Taking into consideration that this class have a high regard for work and gives much attention to economic stability, they would demand more of laws which would favor their interest and it would be beneficial to the economic sector or those who have properties and would serve their interest as well.
Duldulao, Pauline Rose T., 2POL3
ReplyDeleteIn the construction of a political theory that amasses applicability in all areas of a democratic political life, Stephen L. Elkin proposes the essentiality of political economy to this respect. The conflict of political economy especially in capitalist countries arises when businessmen have special access to public officials or when they themselves get elected for the sole purpose of accumulating more wealth therefore defeating the essence of democracy which favors the interest of the community rather than the few. In the setting of the United States, James Madison’s political theory sparked an optimistic view regarding these privileged positions and suggested that businessmen are naturally drawn to protecting property rights, which are in turn essential to republican government, and it cannot do away without commerce which produces economic prosperity. To maintain equilibrium over wealth accumulation by the individual and wealth for the interest of the community, an “attentive citizenry” involving the middle class is expected to be the best solution in achieving a fair economic system, since they are the best affected because the consequences of the actions made by those in the topmost economic hierarchy falls under their lot.
Manalo, Jazztin Jairum P.
ReplyDeleteThe author's goal here is to provide the existence of mutual relationship of democracy and capitalism in a state. A very good example for this argument is our own country, The Republic of the Philippines, our country is a democratic state with the existence of different business companies like the SM Malls, Robinson's Incorporated, these companies are the "capitalists" of our country because they grow profit and interest for themselves, while the "democrats" are the people and the government. The mutual relationship of these two factors can be summarized in this situation; SM Malls provide jobs for the unemployed and underemployed people in the country and helps reduce the environmental problems of it by some of it's projects like the use of biodegradable plastic bags, while the country provides the land and the place for the company to be build and provide it with people to work and maintain it, if it can provide enough jobs for the people of the country, then our country can be a very economic-competitive one. The appearance of mutual establishment is there when they provide the enough needs and necessities of each other, the thing is economic development is an important factor for the progress of politics in a certain country.
Martelino, Jjem Claude D., 2POL3
ReplyDeleteAn article that envelopes contesting disciplines namely, Political Theory and Political Economy are battling ideas to further elaborate and justify the claim that they can interconnectedly work for the improvement of society. Stephen L. Elkin’s “Political Theory and Political Economy” slaps the fact that the marriage of both is an attest to the diametrically minded people, stating that both disciplines cannot work jointly; also it practically embodies the idea that we must focus on the improvement of what is at hand rather than feeding ourselves with the concern of the absent, this produced the conception known as the “capitalist democracy”. Meaning, as the term is strengthened by the justification of the two disciplines in stretch of action, the businessmen while joining disciplined political parties are rest assured that the party is still advocating its platform; for the businessmen interests are the seeds to secure high levels of economic well being. This showed the possible and thinkable relationship of the two, however, the conception raised problems that revolved into the massive interests that private ownership gains, the word private itself has a connotation to become self-interested, which of course is a problem of private companies themselves for it is part of their agendas after all. The solution is, to promote the broad interest of both the capital and rule of the people, for it will further organize the structure of political participation that which of course will not negate any interest of the two disciplines, if the interest is regulated and assured that it is heard then both the rule of people and the capitalist will be recognized.
Pinlac, Ma. Shannen Margarette F. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteDemocracy and Capitalism is a good tandem in enhancing economic progress. Having democracy allows the people to articulate their needs, voice out their opinions and interests, and also have the privilege to live their lives the way they wanted it to be like owning a business without the government's intervention, making some, successful, building their own companies and eventually becoming a large-scale business. It is discussed in Stephen Elkin's work that in capitalism, large-scale businesses are inevitably grouped into a ruling class that directs and influence the society, giving its core relationship with democracy is bound on the formation of powerful interest groups that is caused by business and thus, influencing the society. Broadening their power - having a politically privilege position - increasing their wealth and the presence of unavoidable corruption, there will come a time that their personal interests and agendas will interfere. The disadvantage of this kind of government, is that the powerful and wealthy will continue to dictate the poor, having the common wheel-setting, I am not saying that there must be the utopian government which we all know will never exist but what must be present is a sense of balance on all aspects.
Angara, Patrick Alexis G. , 2Pol3
ReplyDeleteIn Elkin’s article he has presented the problems within the structure of the dominant political-economic system in our time, the Democratic-Capitalism System and Political Theorist must take in account the effects of economic decisions or the political economy to the State and society. He claimed that Big Businessmen, who has the control of large assets, has a special political position or privileged that will allow them to access political actors and affect the decision of the government especially in economic policy. This patron-clientelism or business-state relationship resulted to the narrowing of interest in economic policies and providing property rights that will only benefit the few Businessmen. But Elkin also presented a remedy to this problem that is to broaden the interest of the propertied by means of having an attentive citizenry. Having an attentive citizenry or a “secure and confident middle class” as he stated, will pursue and affect the decision of the government against giving too much benefits to a particular class and will ask for economic political equality.
Najera, Lea Antoneth D. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteIn the article of Stephen Elkin "Political Theory and Political Economy," it has been greatly emphasized that political theory has a deep relationship with sub fields in political science, specifically in the political economy. The relation of political theory in political economy is inseparable for the economy defines politics, the same way capitalism defines democracy. As has been said by Karl Marx, capitalism is the most powerful force at work in shaping the modern sociopolitical world. This explains that political theory should be a theory of political economy, because most (not all) of economic issues in the world including economic growth, recession, exports and imports, shape and greatly affect the society and the world. Business groups, for example, are powerful types of group for they have easy access to significant political resources and most especially, political position. This privileged political position, according to Elkin, can only be remedied by ending private ownership and the rise of a confident middle or working class. Through capitalism, rise of the ruling or elite class increases which makes them superior and powerful in the political life of the society. Their inescapable and prevalent privilege in the area of politics builds up the idea that political theorists should give more consideration and deliberation to democratic capitalism.
Vinluan, Alexander Mara J. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteAccording to the article “Political Theory and Social Theory” by Christine Helliwell and Barry Hindess, political and social theory share one set of historical roots and core set of assumptions. As I analyze the text, on the one hand, political theory differs with other sub-disciplines of political science in terms of its explanation of concepts and practical issues and on the other hand, social theory centres on the nature of society and human sociality. Also, social theory identifies the social problems and suggest on how they should be addressed. As mentioned, political and social theory has similarities on their history and assumptions. I have read that both theory lies on the “figure of the man” which is epistemic, cultural and political. Man is very essential to the society wherein man belongs to the society that is guided by norms from the social theory. Also, both theories presume some historicist and developmental understanding of the humanity. These presumptions lead to the role of the man in the state or society though this developmental understanding of humanity is further than the boundaries of the state. In conclusion, the only difference between the political and social theory is their concern about the normative and descriptive issues of political life. The conventional political theory and conventional political theory can be amalgamated in which these theories will control the political life of the society and will have a great contribution to the welfare of the citizens.
Barona, Angelica Ernestine L.
ReplyDelete2POL3
It is evident that capitalists can and are capable of infiltrating the political sector of a society as they are able to direct not only the influx of economy but also, the political life of the people in a democratic system. Capitalism draws lines that divide a society creating different 'classes' of people - the ruling (or the upper) class, the middle class and lower class - having the ruling class be the businessmen who apparently are able to not only control the economy but also politics as [as I believe] they grasp the responsibility for the monetary flow of the whole system. With this, the upper class becomes too powerful, giving them the power to influence policies that is of their own benefit only hence, Elkin's proposed remedy to this occuring phenomena. He proposed that having an attentive citizenry or "a secure and confident middle class" will control and balance out the influence that the upper class has over goverment agencies and such. And having a strong middle class in a democratic system limits the upper class' influence over political matters as the system basically is ruled by the majority -and majority is found in the middle class.
Villanueva, Glen Carlo P. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteHaving read and understood Elkin’s “Political Theory and Political Economy”, I have come to a realization that capitalism is a double-edged sword: on one hand, to echo Marx, it is a powerful and essential catalyst in the development of the modern world ; on the other hand,it also presents an essential problem, with the emergence of such a ruling class composing different owners of large-scale companies who are given “special privileges” or special access to public officials. With this, Elkin proposes a solution: a construction and fortification of a middle class which is confident in its political power and is secure with its political view. With a strong middle class, a balance of both the capitalists’ demands and the sentiments of people belonging to the lower class will be attained. A well-equipped middle class can argue about governmental measures favoring the upper strata of society, because they understand better the importance of economic security. A strong middle class, with the addition of a three-branched government can max out the possibility of equality in society, with the lessening, if not eradication, of poverty which will begin with officials authoring and passing laws aimed at public interests rather than their own desires.
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ReplyDeleteTeneza, April Marion R. 2PO1
ReplyDeleteIn line with Elkin's "Political Theory and Political Economy", I do believe that Politics and economy are of equal importance in the society. Both of these things play a great role that if one of these factors will be unstable, the other would gradually follow too. There should be a compromise agreement between the government and the capitalist sector. For if they will compromise, then both the political and economic sector will prosper. There should be the system of "Check and Balance" between these two sectors so that one can guard the other and eventually they can prosper together. The main purpose of the democratic system is to ensure the stability and sustainability of the masses, and if they will incorporate the capitalist sector and be able to discipline it in a way, then both will benefit. I do also believe that the middle class sector plays a vital role in the equality between the upper and lower class. And if a state having a very strong middle class sector will lead to sustainability and equality in the society.
BADUA, Karina Mae A. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteWith reference to Stephen Elkin's article, political economy and political theory must always be alongside each other with regards to how the former greatly affects the latter most especially in a democratic-capitalist society where the underlying principles of democracy and the factors that make up the economy must be taken into account. According to him, the propertied, given their degree of discretion on economic well-being, are granted a privileged political voice deemed to be problematic owing to the class's tendency to protect their own properties and interests; and as anticipated, also tends to overlook the needs of the lower strata. Through Madison, Elkin asserted the importance of the separation of powers that may yield an ‘attentive citizenry’, a secure and confident middle class which will be both sceptical to some of the claims of the propertied and affable to the property-less. When the middle class starts to meddle, the large-asset controllers are likely to subject themselves to policies aimed at modest and substantial measures of economic and political equality, both of which democracy obligates. Moreover, a system of checks and balances among the elites as well as the recognition of the legitimacy of the state in society are of grave importance. An example of which is Korea's developmental state which has the capacity to impose discipline on the chaebols ( large, conglomerate family-controlled firms of South Korea ) through policies which may restrict the latter's hold on resources.
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DeleteJayme, Maria Charmaine A. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteOn Elkin's Political Theory and Political Economy, I saw the crucial role of Political Economy in the political system thus affecting Political Theorizing and Theories. Focusing on the Capitalists and Business Groups, who dominate in the economic field, who are more privileged with political position and interest aggregation; therefore turning away from the "real" operation of the democratic system. Thus Elkin provides us with the idea of strengthening the middle class; positioning them in the system in which they will operate to make capitalism and democracy be possible working systems 'together' through (the middle class) having the edge and put balance on the operational system holding the weight of the middle and lower classes of the society then lighten the weight of the capitalists, and be balanced with the middle and lower classes regarding their functions in the system. This will then focus on "how" the citizens in the systems will address and aggregate interests and make the system work in light of democracy. Thus lessens the argument about who should rule or should the capitalists rule.
This therefore explains Political Theory and Political Economy's correlation.
Cregencia, Graciella Merill O. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteIn the article written by Stephen Elkin entitled “Political Theory and Political Economy,” I must say that according to him, there must be a set of guidelines or principles in order for a country to be considered to have a good and well established political economy. Capitalism and Democracy must go hand in hand with one another, but it must not gain conflict for there must be a separation of power between the two to broaden the interests and for it not to be centered on one idea. For this to be even possible first is that the capitalist class should put the majority’s needs above them and must not be only centered within their wants. While in exercising democracy there must not be a standard decision that must be made set, but they should also put focus on the decisions made by the others who might not be in favor. Therefore, the focus must be placed on the decision of the people under the middle class, since they are what make up the labor force which helps stabilize the economy since they represent the broad interest of both sides. I think that there must be a limit of power between the two for an economy to be considered as stable and effective.
Miguel, Annabelle C. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin’s work about “Political Theory and Political Economy” has elaborated on how to make a more efficient and effective democratic capitalism, with the broadening of interests of the capitalists, and putting more focus on the welfare of the middle class because they make the economy much stable since they mostly constitute the labor movement. After reading this, it made me arrive to a new conclusion that a capitalist democracy could thrive only if we create a state whose political elite separated from the economic elite, with a clear distinction to their functions but they should work interdependently with one another. This way these two bodies would oversee if the other one is stepping over the line, minimizing corruption since it is impossible to entirely eliminate it. A great example of developed countries with capitalist democracy regimes are those of the Far East countries like Japan, Taiwan and South Korea have a “manageable corruption” that hurts the economy very minimally. And finally, though we said that we must focus on the majority, we ought not to forget about the minority because they are part of the state as well, and their pleas deserve to be heard and not ignored.
Daludado, Christian Jason O. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteThere is a deep and intrinsic relationship between Political Economy and Political Theory, that was the underlying stand of Stephen Elkin regarding these two subject matters. Although there has been a number of contestation regarding the connection of the two, Elkin stands firmly in justifying his claims about Political Theory and Political Economy. Elkin had made a great exemplification in the form of the capitalist-democratic society. He grounds his work on how a democratic society operates under a capitalist regime that controls almost all the aspects of society. The privileged position, which was well emphasized in the paper, was one of the powers granted upon the large scale capital owners. This so-called “privileged position” is a powerful tool is a powerful tool possessed by the owners of large the large scale business that is commonly used for their sole benefit only. Elkin had also argued that because of this businessmen had in itself the power for it’s views to be recognized by many. Madison’s view, posited a solution for the underlying problem of the capitalist to some extent negate the democratic attributes possessed by the state or society. He proposed that these capitalist businessmen must be elected into office, so that their self-interest in line with their property right will be broaden in the course of it’s pursuance in politics. Although Madison proposed a viable form of solution, as in the case of United States it is clearly not happening and the narrow pursuit of self-interest is clearly prevailing.
Padilla, Jamie V. 2pol3
ReplyDeleteThe term "political" cannot have its full sense without the essence of the term "economic", same as the economic that it cannot stand without the political. The interest of the two overlap that is why we can say that their is the presence of their relationship in the arena of government, that both of them have the extent of influencing the other, and sometimes they can be the factor for changes. The capacity of the capitalist to extend influence produces its privileges in some of the positions narrowed the interest in economic policies and creating more benefits only for the few. Security among the sectors is essential to promote balance among them in order to provide measures for democratic stands. Still in the arena of governing and interest articulation, the consciousness and participation of the masses will determine the extent of how will the sector will give quality service for the people.
Nolasco, Kathy L. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteElkin’s article about Political theory and Political Economy, it says that the economy will always influence political theory. Influence in a way that economy will not work without politics and vice versa. Through Marx’s quote that “capitalism is the powerful force in shaping the modern world”, it just explains that if too much power given in the big and powerful business groups can control society by having certain positions in the government and only satisfying their own self-interest would make an imbalance in the system. Elkin’s remedy for the unbalanced system is that they should broaden their interest by having a secure and confident middle class. Having the middle class will make these big business groups think of not only their self-interest but they have to also think on how can they can satisfy their people so not only that they can satisfy their interest but also satisfy the interest of the majority.
Brito, John Patrick Tan
ReplyDelete2POL3
The article written by Christine Helliwell and Barry Hindess entitled "Political Theory and Social Theory" discusses the similarity of Political theory and Social theory both under Social sciences with their common intellectual history produced by western origins, focus on "figure of man". The expanding differentiation of both is also tackled in the article as what was provided by writers, that the former focuses more on normative and the other descriptive/explanatory. All-in-all the writers gave many examples of works written by other theorist to argue that both came into being as to be very close to each others often through unquestioned assumptions due to the issues of time it was presented or simply because people barely recognize it at all. But through development that both fields went through, the differentiation eventually arise that tends to focus on the figure of man, from the idea that people are subject to authority, being of socialite and eventually, being who thinks and understands. Moreover the article also pose that other theorist tends to pose that political theory is just a sub-part of social theory.
Rodrigo, Danielle Hans Matthew R. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteOn the article of Stephen Elkin, it portrays the capitalist as the class that dominates the state. Although, the capitalist can only dominate the state when it comes to economic affair. Thus, we can say that the influence of the economic elites can make a crucial decision in the way the state should be run. We can relate this article to the television/book series "Game Of Thrones" for the House of the Baratheon which controls the 7 realms, can be controlled by another house known as the Lannisters due to the fact that the king owes money to the head of the Lannisters. Also, it failed to relate altruism to the capitalist for we cannot deny that capitalist have the tendency to be philanthropist and with the presence of the democracy, the state will have a hard time controlling money from these class.
De los Reyes, Christine Shara Paulette C. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteThe article "Political Theory and Political Economy" by Stephen Elkin discusses about the vitality of political economy to political theory. The field of economics is of great importance to political theory and in the whole field of politics as well. Political theorists need to at least learn about what's happening in about the political economy in order to conceptualize a new theory. Elkin also addressed in his article that in democratic societies, political theory plays a significant role in political economy for it usually deals and is much concerned with economic questions regarding economic growth, the distribution of wealth and income, the political power of large business corporations, the role of markets and the rights of property. To sum this up, political theory and political economy are disciplines that are interdependent to one another for one cannot execute its societal function well without the other.
Fulgencio, Salvador III S. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteThe most compelling view that Stephen L. Elkin offers in his article regarding Political Economy is that "those who control large-scale productive assets-big businessmen--will have a privileged political position". This is extremely evident even in the Philippine context wherein business tycoons such as Henry Sy and Lucio Tan control almost 50% of the labor and the GDP of the Philippines. Thus, controlling so much of the countries assets, gives them political bargaining power in the countries legislative process. The Political Privilege expressed here is not at all absolute, Elkin provides safeguards that is based on the system of Popular Democracy; these are elections and the separation of powers. This ensures that the voice of the elite or ruling class even though privileged, is not at all dominant.
Ramo, Karl Kenny Madrilejos
ReplyDelete2POL3
Stephen Elkin's article about political theory and political economy shows a deep connection between the two. Political theory and political economy are inseparable from each other since upon theorizing, it is important to think of factors that would affect the theory and economy is also a factor to consider. The article tackles the connection between democracy and capitalism and it is noticeable that capitalism (mainly the businessmen) have influence in the government but mainly in terms of the economic aspect. The importance of the middle class in the society is highlighted for the propertied class (as the dominating class in society) shapes the interest formation in the government. The middle class as the dominating class could limit the capitalist' personal interest and as well as influence the government about the laws that would promote their (the middle class) interest.
Parreno,Istvan 2pol1
ReplyDeletePolitical theory and social theory are connected because a good political theory should have a good foundation in terms of history and it's function to society. This is acquired when political theory considers its function to society with the use of social theories especially on the subject of cultural studies. Political thinkers that lead the journey to a new political science stresses that the new discipline should be able to cater to the needs of the people and in order to serve this function connection with social theory is a good starting point for an effective political theory. Different areas of the world today are in need of a good political framework in order to function well and in order to provide a good framework the members of the society and their needs are to be considered.
Jore, Ma. Jovi P. 2pol1
ReplyDelete"Capitalism is the most powerful force at work in shaping the modern sociopolitical world", as Marx noted, for economy is the core of political life. Stephen Elkin pointed out the relation of Capitalism and Democracy for it is the the most common system is that is dominating the world in the 21st century but produces a class (big businessmen) that rules and dominates the society. These class creates conflict of interest for they have access to public officials or what we call "business privilege" that they used for their own benefits and to gain more wealth. Thus the essence of democracy is being questioned. Interests of the minority should also be given attention. Elkin added which I also agree, "it is both possible and necessary to harness political energy of capital and the key to that is to broaden their interest". To broaden interests requires a secure and confident middle class. They will be the foundation to secure the balance of interests. In relation, James Madison also offered/presents a theory that promotes an enlargement of the middle class through election and separation of powers. This will in turn help in the wellness and progress of the society.
Rodriguez, Mary Lolyn Jade E. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteWhat I have comprehended about Elkin’s Political theory and Political economy is that Political development deeply entails economic stability at its core, effective economic policies are essential in fostering a stable economy. The interrelatedness of the two fields is manifested in the big businessmen’s participation in politics; they play a big role in regulating the economy of the state, with this they are entitled to a privileged position. However, the middle class should not be disregarded for they also play a significant role in the economy, as it is in the separation of powers the confidence and security of the middle class is vital in broadening the interests of the capital; whenever a fluctuation in the economy occurs just as in the great economic depression a lot of human resources which are dominantly middle-class workers were eradicated from their jobs, they are the ones directly affected by it. Therefore, if one aims a well-ordered democratic capitalism one must also consider the state of the middle class. To be able to say that one has an effective government the economic state of the country must first be considered; I do not imply here a strong government intervention but a compromise between the government and the capitalists, capitalists must still be given freedom in the economy and in return they should also adhere to the policies of the state.
Mercado, Eline Jillian M. 2pol3
ReplyDeleteThe growth of the academic profession over a period of time resulted to the inevitable intersection of disciplines and sub-disciplines; it has particularly affected political theory and social theory. The above mentioned share the same intellectual history rooted on the cultural origins of the West, thus resulting to a common set of assumptions. Both lay claim on the figure of man, which they consider as subjective and political in nature. The most prominent distinction of the two would lay on the claim of Helliwell and Hindess that they differ on the objectivity of their discussions, the political theorists focus their analysis on the normative issues while social theorists focus on both normative and descriptive issues which posits a claim that the former is a branch of the latter. Hence, it would be safe to consider that the political and social sphere is intertwined in the idea that a man is greatly influenced by the laws construed within a society wherein a community is formed and identified hand in hand with the state and its governance.
Adina, Angelo Ray A. (2POL1)
ReplyDeleteIn Stephen L. Elkin's "Political Theory and Political Economy," it is noteworthy to reiterate that the promotion of commerce is regarded by Madison as the permanent interests of the community; this is so because of the significant interrelationship and interconnectedness of the two fields, i.e. political theory and political economy (or simply politics and economy). Conglomerates, I must say, are the primary active partners of the government to provide the necessities of the citizens and to ease, if not to eradicate, the sacrifices and sufferings being encountered. Because of such, powerful businessmen tend to dominate the political arena and to remedy this, strengthening and boosting the morale of the middle class is a must. The efficacy and effectiveness of an incumbent administration heavily lies on the state's economic progress. A compromise among the economic sector and the government will surely foster the growth and progress any state is aiming.
Gonzales, Van 2pol3
ReplyDelete- Based from my understanding of the readings by Stephen Elkin is that democracy and capitalism is somewhat a package deal for a regime, for a developing country capitalism is very important to have an economic development and due to the progress democracy will be born as people will push to have freedom to pursue their interest. With this development, there will be social classes like the ruling elites which own the big businesses that control the economy and also influence the political decisions of the state and middle classes that shapes the interest of the elites and of the state. Thus with these kind of circumstances, it is very important for the state to let the ruling elites do what they are privilege to do as they are the ones that provide the capital for the economic development that gives jobs to the middle class but not to the extent that they violates the laws of the land. Threatening them could jeopardized the economy as the elites could take away their investments and this will affect the chain which involve the middle class so the role of the government is to balance the authority of the elites and also strengthen the middle class as they will be the ones that will make democracy healthy in a society. A stable economy and a political system is the effect of a healthy interaction of the state with its citizens especially the elites and middle class, we couldn’t deny it that a society that has good economy will also have a healthy democracy as people will pursue their ultimate satisfaction in life.
Esteban, Shienna Marie 2POL3
ReplyDeletePublic discontent with the scope, costs, and irresponsibility of government calls for the reform of the public administration as well as the political economy through the guidance of a political theory. If James Madison would still be alive today, he would be a leader of a populist revolt; he would join the public protest against big government and big businesses to reduce the concentration of power in both sectors and contradict economic injustice. James Madison would then recommend to the national government that it should redistribute income to the workers – to the middle majority of the population. Money redistribution to the workers is steady and certain but it will likely be popular to the electorate, not only that it will benefit the majority directly but it will also revitalize capitalism and democracy. In my own analysis, direct money redistribution to the workers will increase meaningful employment, will lead to private sector growth, and would make social problems disappear because workers will have more income and the economy would meet the needs of typical families.
Macalintal, Krezza Gem 2POL3
ReplyDeleteThe interdependence of political theory and political economy is vital to the contemporary world as well in the political arena since it has been a concern of politics to contemplate the relevance of economic growth, markets and the role of businesses on its field. A good example is seen on the emergence of capitalism and democracy by which its relation fosters powerful interests groups that exhibits strong hold of the ruling class at the society and at the same time allowing different groups and political parties exist through pluralism. However, conflicts between the two is inevitable, inequality is possible to emerge since political economist has a tendency to take hold of the political position which would then bastardized the essence of having equal function and control. As stated by Madison, men of property is necessary to build a powerful political strata equipped with property class and interest, yet this will revoke the task of the democrats to perform political activists over capitalists. Henceforth, direct mass participation would be better with the incorporation of both well-ordered democratic system and promotion of broad interests on both sides of capital and the people.
Austria, Don Rodel A., 2POL1
ReplyDeleteIn response to Stephen Elkin’s article, Political Theory and Political Economy, the writer strongly agrees that people should be more realistic than to be an idealist. The author emphasizes two major concepts in the article namely, Democracy and Capitalism, wherein these concepts are “married” to each other. Democracy’s idea is only to address the majority, which can eliminate the existence of the minority, but within the population of the majority comes another generation of minorities; while in Capitalism they tend to address their preferred economic life making many casualties in the current economy. The author suggest to eliminate, as much, the flaws of these concepts in order to balance their relationship; by broadening their “interest”, and in order to do so there must be (1) a separation of power between the two but will not gain any conflict between their relationship and (2) the existence of a secure, confident and interested middle class. The two concepts should work with each other but not to bond as one for they cover each other’s blind side because capitalism supports the existence and the improvement of democracy by addressing the economic problem; while a democratic state address the problem of its people in terms of economic life by providing their basic needs.
Iñigo, Tanya Gaye R.
ReplyDelete2POL3
Political Theory focuses on the rights and obligations citizens ought to have and is concerned with how the government should work while Social Theory is not only concerned with how things must be but is also concerned in explaining and identifying the social problems. Despite the difference of one being a normative theory and the other a normative and empirical one, both theories are centered on man being a political construct. During John Locke’s time, political theory and social theory is intertwined and the ‘State of Nature’ demonstrates not only a normative approach but is also descriptive and explanatory in character. Focusing on Locke’s ‘State of Nature’and considering it as a product of both political and social theory, it is in line with the concept of capitalism for every man has a right to his own property and that men can use their labor to gain property. Although Locke mentioned that man should respect another’s possessions and intended to push for equality, critics of capitalism have made empirical analyses seeing it as the game of only the rich and stating that, “The rich get richer and poor become poorer.”
Valle, Kurt Kerby L. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteUpon reading the text on "Political Theory and Political Economy", one could realize that the particular aspect of political theory being discussed is one of the few that anyone, or perhaps anyone living in a democratic and capitalist country, could easily relate into. Evidently, political economy is a great factor in creating an efficient and effective state because it drives not only the productive facet of the state but also helps in forming the overall framework or structure of the state. The organization of the economy and its relation to the policy and political decisions of the government is one of the most vital things political theorists must put their interests into; the question of how large the capitalists and the middle class should play a role in the political arena. According to Stephen Elkin , instead of the leaders narrowing their concern on the capitalists or the large business-owners, they should broaden their interest and include the middle class, which can be considered as the ultimate basis of political decisions. The middles class, aside from the fact that they constitute the largest percent of the population, is the one who actually experience and know the significance of the economic security of a country.
Arriola, Donna Queen C. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteCapitalist democracy is one of the most applied of perhaps the most used political system in the world. From this system rises the class of owners of large-scale capital which, according to Elkin, becomes the ruling class of the society--giving them much power to "govern" the society bu their privileged positions. But, it was raised that since these propertied citizens have privileged positions, it must not become a hindrance to the effectiveness of democracy; thus, there should be an altering of ownership and capital, and separation of powers. Interests would be broadened through these ways, through the help of the middle class (salaried, skilled, and working people). In order to have an organized democratic capitalist society, there must be a well-ordered middle class.
Salvador, Jamieane Rose R. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteElkin's "Political Theory and Political Economy" explains how Political theory is actually mutually dependent with political economy for theories are made and is needed through analization of what is happening with the economy and economic activities are one of political theorist's basis. He also pointed out the connection of democracy and capitalism. These two things should compromise each other and one of Elkin's idea is to focus and strengthen the welfare of the middle class by broadening the interests of the capitalists. Capitalists' interest matter in a sense that majority are affected by their decisions and plans. In this process the democracy will be the "how" and capitalism will be the "what." However considering the condition of the society is still requisite in the process for it does not follow that what is effective in Japan, Taiwan and other countries that are into democratic capitalism will be effective in all countries.
Clemeña, EJ R. 2Pol1
ReplyDeleteIn Stephen Elkins work, “Political Theory and Political Economy”, it has been said that the there is a unusual relationship between capitalist style of economy and democracy, that the government could be vulnerable to the “propertied” as they are most certainly dependent on them for their economic means, unless the middle has something to say, that the “propertied” are dependent on them. There is a flaw in this conclusion--- how are they sure that the middle class would not be turning on the government if those who have the money could (and would!) that would give them certain ‘things’ that would ensure their support? Capitalist is not an equivalent to democracy. It is my belief that as much as the government be dependent on these business oriented individuals, to have a capitalist style means that it is not the those in political power but in actuality those in economic power are the ones that is in charge. This is where democracy ends—the end of the government of the people, by the people, for the people--- and the beginning of an oligarchy-- the rule of these “propertied” individuals.
TAN, ARVI JAMES R. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteIt is just "okay" for capitalists to be present in a state. It is "okay" until they don't have the power to interfere or influence the decision making process present in the state. Capitalists on the good hand provide jobs for the proletariat and the masses, and promote economic stability. It justifies its state as being okay, but it doesn't justify the reality that capitalists make the most out of things. Whatever effort laborers put, they still receive a fix rate, and the owners receive a big amount of profit. Things should change.
Tecson, Mark 2pol3
ReplyDelete-Based on what I understand about political theory and political economy is that a particular country relies on the elites which owns big businesses to develop the economy as they have the resources to finance projects. As what I’ve know they are the ones that invest and highly sought by the government in order to help the country to develop with that idea ruling elites sometimes influences political decisions and the political behaviour of the people in the system. In order to balance the equilibrium between the state and the ruling elites is that the state should increase the middle class as they are the ones that shapes and limits the interest of both parties. By allowing both parties (elites and middle class) to interact with each other which the elites will be the ones to give the jobs to the middle class and they will be the ones that will shape their interest and because of this there will be a healthy environment in which democracy will boom. Lastly, the government should let the elites do their own business as they are the ones that provides jobs for the professionals if they are dissatisfied with the government it could be fatal for the economy as they can remove their investment hence a good relationship by both parties is needed.
Padolina, Hannah Julia 2Pol1
ReplyDeleteIf a country aims to achieve economic and political growth, then the middle class, as posed in the Keynesian hypothesis, should be more visible to spur investments and to ensure good governance. In order to make this possible, a model must be present to subtly intervene so that the state will be willing to spend and invest in marketing and finance for the sector, while its regulatory power applies more judiciously. This will in turn lead to economic and political stability of the country and the middle class will play a vital role in fulfilling it. Whatever the label given to the type of capitalism and governance of a country it is important to note that for any country to succeed in strengthening the marriage of democracy and capitalism, and political theory and political economy, it should build a strong middle class through a modified capitalism that will best jive along with its government and the people. Indeed, even in democracies, capitalism can be an effective strategy to promote progress with the help of two factors as stated by Stephen L. Elkin - broadened interests of the propertied and a strong middle class.
Hipolito, Reiner Lance M. 2POL1
ReplyDeletePolitical theory and Political Economy by Elkin made me realize things. He was right about how democracy and capitalism is intertwined. Capitalsim and Democracy dominates the 21st century. elite businessmen dominates the political arena, this does not help the country to rise and improve. Politicians should be the ones to dictate things for the elite businessmen, not vice versa. In order for a country to fully develop, it primarily needs the middle class. The problem is that rich people becomes richer and the poor people finds themselves at a deep hole. Democracy is now being questioned because of this new system.
Queñano, Chriszel Ann, 2POL1
ReplyDeleteReading the Political Theory and Political Economy of Stephen L. Elkin, I arrived to the thought that capitalism and democracy had been affecting life and economy, and the fact that it is seemingly impossible to coexist without any matter to attend to. Capitalism being focused to its own benefits neglecting the others is one of the factors that reduce the potency of democracy. The main role of democracy is to serve the people and represent the people, even so, the large-scale controllers of productive assets is taking all the privilege one could get leaving only a few for the others, moreover, these people dominates the flow of economies, thus, dominating even the political world itself. Economics had been greatly affecting and bringing about issues not just in economic world, hence, in the political world as well and with big businessmen ruling over it, they leave no voice for the people to speak of what they need. As Marx noted, capitalism is the most powerful force at work in shaping the modern sociopolitical world, emphasizing that capitalists themselves have all the benefits on dictating as to how the political world would move forward and progress.
PAEZ, Shiela Maricone, 2POL3
ReplyDeleteA work by Stephen Elkin entitled “Political Theory and Political Economy” emphasized the importance of capitalism vis-à-vis democracy as part and parcel of the growing sociopolitical world with economic features and the need of a middle class to come up into an equilibrium for the demands of the upper and lower class, the former known for their haves while the latter with have-nots. In this emerging reality, economic activities such as distribution of wealth, economic growth, business-related activities, significance of markets and properties tend to affect and sometimes overhaul political decisions and actions. Capitalism, based on the article, produces businessmen in the upper class; some of them make huge profits at the expense of downtrodden workers, exploiting the lower strata’s human rights. But the middle class seemed to acquiesce in the upper class’ amassing of wealth by forming a coalition to impede and stop these actions for all have the right to self-determination in view of the citizen’s equality which is not a privilege but an essential right which exists in any democratic country. Hence, Political Economy intertwines with Political Theory and Capitalism correlates Democracy- with the help of the well-ordered middle class and the promotion of everyone’s rights.
PS: Sir, I posted twice because I forgot something in my first post that may lead to confusion on the whole stand… My second post is my official stand...Sorry Sir.. thanks!~
DeleteUy, Adrian C. 2Pol1
ReplyDeleteAs noted by Marx "Capitalism is the most powerful force at work in shaping the modern sociopolitical world", so Political Theorist just can't ignore the relation of political theory to political theory. Even more in democratic countries because their policies involves the economy. Capitalism can produce a ruling class that can direct the political life of the society. Those ruling class gets privileges that can help them get more money.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIn Elkin’s article about political economy in relation to democracy and capitalism, he explained profoundly and thoroughly how the large-scale businessmen--- big businessmen--- greatly influence the political sector and the society, thus gaining a privilege that gives them the capacity to subtly rule the economy, taking into consideration not the interests of the society, but their interests. Elkin saw these as a problem because these practices primarily tamper the principles of democracy in a way that only the big businessmen’s interests are being heard and not the interest of others--- and that is not the principle of democracy. Elkin proposed a remedy to this problem and that is to have an attentive citizenry or a secure and confident middle class, with which I disagree because it is very ideal, besides I strongly believe that to be able to stop these practices, the initiative must come from the inside (government) and not from the outside (middle class). I suggest that instead of the big businessmen gaining privilege from government, why not the public officials gain privilege from these large-scale businesses? (eg. Compromise with them to give the middle class jobs) Since the problem arises from the inside, I think the best way to fight these practices and to bring back to life the principles of democracy is to strengthen also the inside so it can protect the majority and not be easily overruled by the privileged few.
ReplyDeleteVivo, Mik Albert A.
ReplyDeleteDivorcing the political from the economic sector of a society is like removing the brain or spinal cord from the nervous system – with the brain (political) removal leading to death of the existing system and spinal cord (economic) extraction leading to complete paralysis of the entire system. Giving regards to the economic area of the state, the government should, as Elkin argued from Madison’s theory and capitalistic set-up as example, focus in “broadening the interest of the propertied” since they are the driving force of a successful state if we’re going to base its success from its economic growth. But this kind of argument depends on the existing political culture of different state like in the case of “developmental state”, a term coined by Chalmers Johnson, like Japan, South Korea and Taiwan which are equipped with Confucian principles leading the soft authoritarian methodology to success. Giving privileges to the population belonging to the higher strata of a common democratic hierarchy requires a good sense of discipline and justice which enabled the Asian tigers, and the Euro Zone (in spite of its economic crisis) and the United States of America to sustain its existing political and economic system with the former a fused democratic-socialist scheme and the latter with liberal democratic set-up. Using the arguments above, the economic system plays a crucial role in moulding the political culture, specifically the behaviour, of the state as a whole which in turn, enables the state to uphold its political system- a factor that should not be neglected by political theorist.
Balotro, Alfredo III, G. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteElkin's stand in the relationship between Democracy and Capitalism is simple: To view the economy in a democratic perspective which entails a productive middle class. He proved this stand to be effective in understanding the vital roles of capitalism in democracy and vice versa. He also pointed out problems that an observer or a theorist might face in observing politics in the economy. My theory on this area of the Arena is what I call the Black Magic Theory. In the Philippines, as I have observed, these major companies have the ultimate privilege and protection against anything that might hinder them from profiting in their business and that is because they have the money to back up their cases and the contacts they need to avoid sudden disturbances.
Monsayac, Regina 2POL3
ReplyDeletePolitics and economy is said to be related with each other. Businessmen use their influence in the economy to pursue their interest. They can also interfere in politics by using their own resources. So with this comes the question of what is the real democracy especially in democratic countries. We cannot deny the fact that economy and state needs each other in order to make progress.
Torralba, Jennica DLS. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteIn Stephen Elkin's article, "Political Theory and Political Economy", it is evident that there is an interdependent relationship between the said elements in the topic where Marx have pointed out that capitalism is one of the most powerful forces that can shape the modern sociopolitical world. In line with the previous statement, Elkin is concerned with the relationship between capitalism and democracy, because it is evident that there are only few people that can be considered as "big businessmen" while there are quite a number of the middle class population. Even though that Lindblom, Offe and Block mentioned that in any form of democratic capitalism those who control the large-scale productive assets will have a privileged political position, Madison still proposed that these privileged few should have a position in the government so that they can broaden their views with regards to what the society needs. Another solution that Madison proposed is the separation of powers, wherein the source of income of the middle class will be taken into consideration since they were somewhat considered as independent, they are most likely to be confident in their political views. Since the aim is securing a modest measure of economic quality and a substantial measure of political equality, it is pointed out by Pierson and Greenberg that there should be a strong labor movement that will help establish a secure and confident middle class.
CAPA, KRISTABELLE T.
ReplyDelete2POL3
There is no doubt that conventional political theory and conventional social theory are two sub-disciplines of Political Science that are commonly mistaken to be the same and because of this, there were recent developments that showed that the two must not be interchanged with each other because of their difference in focus of study and their view of the standing of each other as a discipline. The article by Helliwell and Hindess discussed the difference of the sub-disciplines from each other, having conventional social theory as the study that gives emphasis to the socialized character of human subjectivity and behavior, and conventional political theory as the study that gives emphasis to the autonomous character of an individual. To illustrate their difference, an example would be on how a political theorist and a social theorist would study an individual. A political theorist would prove that the individual is autonomous, having the ability to self-contain itself and to decide for itself during elections, which is similar to the characteristics proposed by Karl Polanyi as the liberal view. Counter to this is the Functionalist Sociology which would be likely used by the social theorist, by proving that the society is a law-governed unity made up of interdependent parts, having the individuals interact with each other as a community.
Cho, Hye Jin, 2POL3
ReplyDeleteWith the growth of academic professionalization and new discoveries and theoretical approaches, the intellectual territories which are constituted with different and/or sometimes overlying disciplines and sub-disciplines and; the boundaries between them, have been developing constantly over time which made it ambiguous to clarify the location of academic labor of social theory and political theory. With this, political theory’s safety nest in the arena of academia was being a sub-discipline of political science, but which distinguished itself from other sub-disciplines, in the course of time, as the only one to not meddle with clarifying and explaining concepts and issues but to examine the normative issues in the political arena. However, on the case of social theory, with August Comte’s and Emile Durkheim’s views, it was presented as a diagnostic discipline that seeks social problems and then which offers advises for these problems, thus, making social theory as descriptive/explanatory and normative. These underlying concerns between normative and descriptive/explanatory issues in the analysis of political/social life shows the essential differences between the political and social theory, however, in spite these differences, these disciplines have come to figure out their similarities that have been shared through out their common intellectual history that is evident all the way back to the times of Western cultural origins. Also, their same unquestioned and unexamined acceptance of the “figure of man”: human “individual” as a political and autonomous, self-directing subject, shows a comfortable image of the future of these disciplines having the power to dominate the shapes of political and social lives.
PAEZ, Shiela Maricone, 2POL3
ReplyDeleteA work by Stephen Elkin entitled “Political Theory and Political Economy” emphasized the importance of capitalism vis-à-vis democracy as part and parcel of the growing sociopolitical world with economic features and the need of a middle class to come up into an equilibrium for the demands of the upper and lower class, the former known for their haves while the latter with have-nots. In this emerging reality, economic activities such as distribution of wealth, economic growth, business-related activities, significance of markets and properties tend to affect and sometimes overhaul political decisions and actions. Capitalism, based on the article, produces businessmen in the upper class; some of them make huge profits at the expense of downtrodden workers, exploiting the lower strata’s human rights. But the middle class seemed not to acquiesce in the upper class’ amassing of wealth by forming a coalition to impede and stop these actions for all have the right to self-determination in view of the citizen’s equality which is not a privilege but an essential right which exists in any democratic country. Hence, Political Economy intertwines with Political Theory and Capitalism correlates Democracy- with the help of the well-ordered middle class and the promotion of everyone’s rights.
Note: This is my official post :">
DeleteFLores, Andrea Kaye H. 2Pol3
ReplyDeleteElkin's Political theory and Political economy discusses the close relationship of politics and economy. Moreover, it states that in today's society business firms somehow has control on what could happen in the run of the government. The lesser investments, the lower the economy which equals to higher poverty line and unemployment. Clearly, economy plays an important role in the political arena. However, due to this set up more often than not the gov't gives more importance to the interest of the players of the economy resulting to ignore the interest of the public. Also, probably cause corruption. As a solution to this overwhelming crisis Elkin proposed to have a strong and well-organized middle class in order to balance the economic pyramid.
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ReplyDeleteTabugan, Karen A. 2POL3
ReplyDeleteThe relation between the political theory and political economy must be given attention since they intertwine. In terms of economic policy, voters cast their votes depending on the achievements of the politicians during their regimes that benefits them. The business privilege of the big businessmen affects the economy of the country since they have the money and power to alter the flow of such economic situation. In this situation, the middle class enters, they balance the table for both the upper class (big businessmen)and lower class. Hence, a well-ordered middle class is essential for the organization of each party's interests.
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ReplyDeleteEsteves, Ryssa Satchel C. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin's work "Political Theory and Political Economy" showed a close relationship of Political theory and a state's economy. We can consider that capitalism is juxtaposed to democracy since it is where we can vividly see the efficiency of capitalism. Because of capitalism, there exists what we call the "big businessmen" or those who run huge businesses and contribute a lot to the economy, without a doubt these people do not only have the influence and power over the economy but also to the political situations in a state. They have the capability to control the economy, and that they can even bend and twist some of the laws to keep their businesses going, thus the need for middle class emerges. To balance the economic equilibrium, a reasonable amount of middle class in the society is needed for the lower class to avail a voice from the economic progress as well.
MATIAS, Jenille B.
ReplyDelete2Pol1
Globalization, industrialization and intensive marketing strategies amongst the various government offices has fueled the growth not only on socio-economic facets of human activity but also admiringly brought political degeneration, if not to an absolute stop, to a halt which was undeniably anticipated and yearned for not only by the government officials running and providing solutions in these realms of political governance but most primarily the citizenry. Political economy, if completely dissected and broken down, simply or commonly refers to the interdisciplinary studies drawing upon economics, law, and political science in explaining how multitude aspects of political implementation such as its institutions, its environment, and its economic system, be it capitalist, socialist or mixed, how its intricately interwoven with each other and how it collectively influences and dictates the populace's way of living. There has been a myriad of discrepancies when tackling what certain economic system perfectly befits a certain nation such as the fiasco that occurred during the on-set spread of capitalism when some argued that this specific ideology is undeniably narrowly construed, analyzes public policies as monopoly, intensely focused on market protection, institutional corruption and is extremely rent-seeking. What the government should do in turn of what they have been aiming to accomplish for the past years, even decades, of political disputes regarding this matter is to seek out regulations, protocols and procedures that would help aid those people willing or unwillingly stuck in the lowest class of sociological, political and economic hierarchy to not only rise up in terms of fiscal progression but by endowing them enough knowledge to further empower and sustain their growth that would eventually help the nations in its collective efforts of maturation.
Ramil, Mark Erick C. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteElkin provides his readers a theory that manifests elements of a democratic capitalist society within which the business class or capitalist emerged as the top interest group that is considered to control the democratic political life, these big businessmen are the main political actors for they do enhance economic activities and growth of the country simultaneous with this advantage is the adverse effect of market forces; the share of the workers is tempered by redistributive measures carried out by the state like the legislation of legal wages and benefits, progressive taxation and keeping the government economic intervention minimal mainly to enforce legal contracts. This impeding factor thus, amass the businessmen who controls the daily operations that establish a link between politics and their business and making it possible for them to alter the economic decisions by the government for the society. Hence, for the economy to be balance Elkin suggests broadening the interest of the capitalist group and this entails a middle class that is firm and that would stand for the lower class and shall by their collective political efforts bring forth equality and lessen or more so eradicate welfare capitalism.
BUGARIN, PATRICK DAVE Q. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe author concurs to the idea of Madison and of course of Elkin as he believes that it is true that we have to give attention to the capitalists and to broaden their horizon for them not to simply focus to their personal interests to democracies. In the case of the Philippines we have mixed economic system similar to the United States of America but the article is, it would not fit the country’s setting and also, considering the fact that there is still a significant number of the poor hence, here comes the mundane role of the democratic under labourers to indigenize their proposition to best suit the status quo. Having a strong and interventionist state, the discipline imposed to the capitalists (which does not necessarily mean dictating them) these are not anymore new to us, to the East Asia where we could cite a lot of successful stories this will also fit the country. According to a research of the Asian Development Bank on 2009, the country lacks strength in enforcing their policies and also the knowledge in doing so, this prevents the country in pursuing its endeavours.
CASTRO, ANGELO BRIAN T. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteI would like to present my "Unofficially Theirs" theory wherein it states that the Businessmen who controls the production of the necessities has the absolute power over the public officials contrary to what the article and the Law states. In everyday living we need technology which needs energy, which comes from Gas that the businessmen import which they resell at a de-regulated price. A Democratic Government exists to protect the interests of it's people and if the Government would try regulating the price of Gas the Businessmen would be in a unprofitable situation thus would might end up in a situation wherein there would be no Gas available for sale which would greatly affect our daily living. All the blame would be on the Government for it is the vanguard of the people and would soon lose popular support due to its failure to protect them however if the Government would try to play the role of the Businessmen it would fall short on its budget for other services which might cause discontentment among the people and would lose its legitimacy to exist because into the moment the people submitted themselves to the authority of the Government by anything the People must be of it's priority, "Great Power comes with Great Responsibility". It might be harsh yet this the fruit of the Industrial Revolution which gave REAL POWER to the businessmen who has Oil/Gas on their control however still their power is unofficial for it is not provided by the Law but by reality.
GALLARDO, Raniel M. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin's "Political Theory and Political Economy" undergirded the notion projecting the significance of the two concepts' interrelationship in a capitalist context. Political theory, with its aim of providing means in addressing political issues through deep understanding of the affairs in the political realm,needs to greatly consider the economy. Political economy, on the other hand, would be needing the guidance of political theory for it to serve its purpose of contributing to the state and society's stability. Elkin, with the aims of addressing core economic questions, at the same time preserving and strengthening democratic capitalism, emphasized that there must be cooperation, or compromises(especially on the part of big-businessmen), among the state, big-businessmen, and the people, whom the middle-class represents. This analysis can be compared to Vivek Chibber's study of South Korean developmental state in a sense that the interconnection among the three, together with other contributing factors, played vital roles in the country's development.
ARISTON, Aaron Niegel R. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteIn Stephen Elkin's Article there is the assumption that there is a close relationship between the capitalists, the state, and the middle class. These three political actors play a vital role in maintaining the democratic political setting in the United States by furthering each other’s interest resulting in both the increase in the performance of the economy and public welfare. Yet this does not seem to apply anymore to the American setting seeing as to how their economy is failing, while in contrast to the rising economic power of the Chinese. It would seem that the democratic-capitalist theory is no longer effective and that a new approach is necessary and one can consider the “Developmental State Theory”.Yet because the U.S. is a bulwark of democracy and liberty having the thought of a command economy and a regulated market would seem to be highly improbable which only shows that democratic-capitalism is too ideal where everybody’s interest in represented and that democratic-capitalism does not entail a successful economy.
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteEVANGELISTA, Angello 2POL2
ReplyDeleteAs I read the articles, I came up with my theory in which I call as The Theory of the "Suitable" Government. Well, in this theory, one must know the people and obeserve the will of the majority and protect the interests of the few. Moreover, the government should not be enforced but preferred by the citizenry; educate and subject them to propaganda. Added to that, the masses should always be kept well lead and represented by those who are both willing and deserving. Lastly, end the rule of a dominant class in the society, which in this case are the Capitalist, instill a Mixed Economy to favor equality over the economy because equality eventually leads to prosperity in the long run while economy does'nt lead to equality but unrest and militancy, carefully define the Public-Private Partnership; stop the privatization of the "basic needs" and susidize both small/ large Filipino owned industry and agriculture because we need not to increase the salaries/ incomes but lower the prices of the goods and services.
Gabriel, Genelyn J. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe interdependence of Political theory and Political economy is manifested in Stephen Elkin’s work stressing the relation of capitalism and democracy. Political theory examines and shapes the structures which govern the society, on the other hand economy is inevitable to every society; hence, political theory helps the political economy to be rendered effectively. Given that democracy is the government of the people and is a government where freedom is given much emphasis, the economic actors or the businessmen and those in the privilege position are not commonly limited in pursuing their interests. The people mentioned have a control and have a political influence to some extent. In this case, their political advantage must be used and must be confined with the welfare of the citizen as a whole and not amongst themselves. They must first broaden their interest, then know the needs of the people and of the time and make necessary actions such as protecting the property rights of the people through legitimizing it.
MATIENZO, John Edbert P. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin’s article on Political Theory and Political Economy suggests that a strong democratic-capitalism requires a strong middle class; because the middle class serves as the indirect watchdog of the state and the capitalist. Moreover, their resiliency and vigilance is necessary not only for broadening the interest of the capitalist but also for articulating the interest of the majority. Hence, the state should promote and protect the interest of the middle class. However, it does not mean that the state should pacify them with welfare benefits; instead, the state should ensure the equality of opportunity. It is for the reason that the former’s purpose is to implicitly deny the persistence of the resilient middle class.
LAZARO, Jonathan 2POL2
ReplyDeleteKeynesian Model was a strategic interventionist idea of investment and expenditure planning through government economic machine in its view to fecund growth but somehow critical in its nature as it conceptualizes optimum planning that holds the moment of "Consequences", that must point out on how the government should invest and spend to stir up monetary flow effectively, but to its best,Keynesian Model must at least achieve maximal efficacy.The model is simple, for example, in some part of an economic depression, the government invested in a factory(food) and this factory needs workers which give jobs to people and then it produces goods which goes to the demands of the people and income comes next, workers save some money to bank and so on. Good for supplying the idea in cases like the Great Depression before or explaining the rise of Developmental States in South Korea and Japan but there are some cons that if we take this with what have we learned in Political Theory gives a Parochial and Social concern that it may or may not be applicable to some other economic dilemmas in other states, if the model is effective, how the state would sustain its good economy and allocate the income with its constituent? Proving that it maybe a jump start of an bringing back the economy, it leaves a problem that measures the strength of the managerial role of the government interventionist state.
Stephen Elkin's "Political Theory and Political Economy" was all about the relationship of the four elements of the state. These four elements of the state have to do with people, territory, sovereignty and government. The main problem in his article is the relationship between the capitalist in a democratic country in relation with its people. He suggested that the key to harness the political energy of the capital is to broaden their interest. Broadening this interest requires a secure and confident middle-class. The state of middle class is the key to constituting an attractive form of democratic capitalism. It is worth noting here that a strong labor movement will help to foster a society. Broadening the interest and fostering the society equally will lead to a success of a democratic government.
ReplyDeleteSy Siong Kiao, Ralph T. 2pol2
ReplyDeleteI believe that the article is correct in saying that the hope of a capitalist democratic society lays in the hands of the middle class. This was the conclusion of the article. The middle class is not that rich nor not that poor, therefore they are just enough. They are just enough for a healthy society. A society filled with poor people is not healthy. A society filled with rich people is not healthy as well.
SISON, Denise Rose P. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin's work elucidates the significant role of political economy in the sub-field of political theory which concerns the fundamental relationship between capitalism and democracy. In the modern socio-political world, it seems that the political life of the society is directed by the ruling class or specifically, the "big businessmen" who, as what Madison argued, were given political advantages and privileged position that are legitimated greatly by broadening their interests in order to employ and make effective use and control of the political energies of the capital. Elkin argued that Madison's political theory was deficient because he gave an inadequate consideration on attentive citizenry which was a requirement in his design, and so, in order to effectively broaden the interests and foster citizenry, Elkin suggested, first, to change the character of capital ownership that will maintain its stability with the basic principles of a capitalist democracy, and second, through the presence and contribution of a secure and confident middle class. Thus, for there to have a well-ordered democratic capitalism, the interest and rights of the middle class must be ensured and protected through the establishment of a strong and equal labour opportunity for them. Indeed, through the efforts of the middle class, economic prosperity and political equality could be achieved.
Ramos, Rochelle Anniza C. 2pol2
ReplyDeletePolitical economy and Political theory is about the relationship between a democratic country and capitalism. For Capitalism to work out in a democratic country there should be a strong middle class. The state should safeguard the welfare of the middle class. And vice versa. They also must ensure equality among them. And then, the middle class must know the needs of the people and do necessary actions to ensure and provide their needs.
Limcolioc, John Robert G. 2POL1
ReplyDeleteThere is no problem regarding the existence of capitalists in the society, as long as they are not constraining or manipulating the natural process in making decisions to a certain state. A decent contribution of the capitalists to the state is they are providing works to the constituents and supporting the economic stability in the area. Therefore, capitalists is not a threat to the state and somehow it provides aid in terms of economic stability, but capitalists is not a major aspect in the said area, they are just part of it. The government must always have regulation to control the influence or agenda of capitalists.
PAJADO, Lenette 2pol2
ReplyDeletePolitical economy is a sub-field of political theory. The relation of these two fields is visible when we tackled about the relationship between democracy and capitalism. How capitalism works best with democracy (vise versa) and why it capitalism is the only one that does. Capitalism also makes anomaly in the field of democracy - the rights of those capitalists or those people who owns large businesses have most compared to those of the small scale entrepreneurs. Our government must have equal rights for the people - that's what we need, that's what democracy requires.
Dizon, Daniel T. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin has proposed in his article (Political theory and Political economy) that having an effective and attentive middle class will result to having an indirect supervisor,if you will, over the big businessmen. Thus broadening the interests of the capitalists, and directing more of the political energy towards serving the interests of the larger public. The efforts of this middle class will most likely result in policies by the government that will be aimed at securing a modest economic equality and substantial equality in politics. Therefore to have a well-ordered capitalistic democracy the interests of the well ordered middle class must be secured through the passing of equal labor opportunities for them.
Manalo, Joshua S. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe notion of democracy vis-à-vis capitalism has been a basic teaching in politics, thus the inseparability of the capitalists to democracy also comes into the picture. As this is the case, Elkin proposed that a “third party,” a strong middle class, is desirable to have a successful democratic-capitalist society. This concept would be highly feasible in the United States and other developed countries as they have the means to develop this stratum. By using this situation, we should not wonder that other states, like the Philippines, seem to fail to have a thriving democracy despite various attempts to create one, as they cannot produce a middle class to counter the oligarchic tendencies of the capitalists. Therefore, Elkin’s idea is not universal and should not be blamed if the practice of democracy in developing states is not in the ideal.
Romano, Jerwin Richard N. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe article (Political Theory and Political Economy) primarily discusses on the maximization of interests by the capitalists, or what Elkin called as "propertied class" and the middle class. The strategy of distributing the properties of the propertied class to the middle class will broaden the interests of both classes in such ways that, since the majority of the state is the middle class, the capitalists' properties will serve as the fuel to the economy through distributing it to the middle class, thus maximizing the interest of both classes. Another is the use of power of the propertied class, since they have the greater capacity to rule,in terns of using funds, wit should be used on putting them into positions (political). But Elkin also proposed the idea of "right to property" to protect the properties of these classes for the to preserve the aim of broadening of interest for the benefit of stronger economic activities of the state.
CAÑIZO, Daniel Adrian R. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe article of Stephen Elkin, Political Theory and Political Economy explains how in theory, political scientist must take account capitalism as a major benefactor/competitor of democracy. It powers democracy and gives foreign and domestic income to the country. It is also stated that businessmen are given great privileges without taking into account the workers that theses businessmen employ and pay with their profits. Even a Federal or Republican state can benefit greatly if they are a capitalist economy political actors and the like are given, like wealthy businessmen, privileges and properties and in turn these political actors became wealthier. In theory, any type of economy a country have it can help prosper and give income to these countries, but only in capitalism these factors can be greatly seen, the interest of different people, be it individual or a group/faction, as it gives each a chance to succeed in their chosen lives.
PILE, Joshua Carlo T. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteAside from the ‘common intellectual history’ of social theory and political theory, Helliwell and Hindess point to a shared Western cultural origin that binds these together—a shared genesis that creates a tendency for theorists to unquestioningly favor Western norms and ideas, giving these (usually) unchallenged universal validity. Take, for example, Elkin’s article on political theory and political economy: there is an assertion that capitalism and democracy (both Western concepts) are and should be naturally wedded. While this might be true for most (if not all) Western societies, one must note that capitalism has thrived and can thrive even sans democracy. Singapore does not protect civil liberties but its economy is considered one of the freest in the world; China is authoritarian but this did not inhibit the celerity of the growth of its capitalist sector and its rise to being the world’s second largest and fastest-growing economy. While Elkin offers indubitably illuminating remarks on and prescriptions for capitalist democracies (which are undoubtedly applicable to such societies and which thus I do not challenge) one must avoid presuming the universal purchase of the concepts one explores.
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ReplyDeleteJavier, Lloyd Danielle V. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin`s Political Theory and Political Economy emphasizes the influential role of Political Economy in Political Theory, furthermore; she also highlighted the marriage of capitalism and democracy. The notion that big businessmen will have a privileged political position, drawn from the deep relation between capital and public officials was not seen in the Madisonian point of view, instead, Madison argues that the interest of the propertied must be given special attention and that property rights were essential to a republican government, this leads to the notion that Madisonian design were meant to promote an enlargement of the interest of the propertied. In democratic capitalist countries, it is very essential to have a stable and strong middle class that would watch over these big businesses and to prevent them from their oligarchic tendencies.
The government should then establish a balance between these two major economic players, the big businessmen and a strong and stable middle class, the government should support both. The government should support the big businessmen by rewards for good economic performance, rewards through subsidies and other benefits so that they may enhance they production further and produce products that are competitive in the world market since the government benefits a lot form these businesses through large returns and tax.
Enriquez, Bien-Bien Marie L. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteUtilizing Stephen Elkins’ proposition regarding the middle class in his Political Theory and Political Economy which was: “For there to be a well-ordered democratic capitalism, there must be a well-ordered middle class”, I shall be proposing my own theory called “Theory of Stabilization” which shall be centered on the welfare and security of the budding middle class—holding a significant role with regard to the political economy of a country, being the buffer between the asset-controllers and the traditional working class. Elkins, Madison and other theorists, having already provided safety measures to broaden the interests of the big businessmen, I find it necessary to focus on the middle class, for their skepticism and sensitivity to the classes mentioned will hold a great effect in a state’s political economy. My proposal shall include the promotion of rights and responsibilities of the middle class, although it may seem cliché, but provided that the emphasis of equality and justification will be embedded upon it as it aims to provide a sustainable economy wherein both the public and private sectors may have equal participation in the political arena, the latter currently possessing the advantage of garnering political influence and privileged political positions due to the fact that they have control over economic prosperity. The middle class having knowledge of their economic security should be provided just wage and employment rights and subsidies provided by the government so as to encourage better output. Finally, there should be an established assembly of representatives for all sectors to pool in all concerns and to further broaden interests so as to reach across all dimensions of society that would result to a prosperous economy.
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ReplyDeleteGuanio, Agustini Alfonso C. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin's article shows the relation between the capital and democracy, the purpose and involvement of political economy in the sub-field of political theory. He also emphasizes that the proper utilization of a strong, confident and vigorous middle class is the cornerstone of a well-ordered democratic-capitalist government. Thus, it entails to the promotion of the former's demands and interests (strong labor oppurtunity) that leads to the role of the businessmen. The businessmen of the state have a great effect on the local communities which has a high resiliency of middle class citizens. Hence, making the government support the these businessmen for the welfare of the middle class and for the betterment of the state.
Espiritu, Fraincess Kwyn G. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteWhile it is true that “the propertied,” who happens to have business privileges, are indispensable to the overall economic health of a democratic-capitalist country, it is also inevitable for them to pursue personal interests which compromises the welfare of the larger portion of the population and democratic values. On this, Madison suggests that election of these businessmen to office, separation of powers, and an active citizenry may broaden their interests. However, Elkin found the later still insufficient and asserted that “a well-ordered middle class” is capable of influencing the decision-making process. But again, everyone is prone to corruption and these middle class citizens may acquire more than enough benefits to ascend their status to controllers of large-scale businesses themselves. It is more probable, therefore, for democracy to survive within a capitalist economy if privileges for the propertied will be restricted and their involvement in the government will not come to the point of holding office.
Bautista, Sheena Marie O. 2POL2
ReplyDeletePolitical Theory and Political Society of Helliwell and Hindess discussed the similarities and differences between the two sub-disciplines. But before that, the existence of these sub-disciplines is due to the developing change in the disciplines; therefore, producing specializations that addresses a specific concern. Another common thing aside from their historical roots and cultural origin is their subject the "individual" its behaviors and reaction to certain activity depending on the circumstances. The difference between a Political theory to Social theory is the methodology and purpose of the analysis. Political theory focuses on the study of normative phenomena that are only related to the political; whereas, social theory is rather descriptive and empirical in discussing the characteristics of the society or collective activities of individuals.
Nicolas, Katrina M. 2Pol2
ReplyDeleteThe state is expected to play a role in shaping the economy, so naturally the state affects and alters the economy and vice versa. A state that cannot make the economy grow, or distribute it in a manner seen to be fair, could be in a great deal of trouble. In Stephen Elkin's article "Political Theory and Political Economy," he embarked upon the relationship between capitalism and democracy; business groups and the middle class. Even up to now, the question whether capitalist has control over democratic political life still opens up topics for study. According to Elkins the core of the relation between capitalism and democracy rests on the powerful interest groups that business forms. People do not only have the influence and power over the economy but also to the political situations in a state. According to Elkins, the controllers of large-scale productive assets have privileged political position. Men of property were to be given political advantages and have the influence to protect their rights of property. Madison understood that an essential problem in securing democratic government in the context o f a commercial society is that there will be inevitably be a division between the propertied and the propertyless. One of the solutions that Madison proposed is the separation of powers, wherein the source of income of the middle class will be taken into consideration since they are considered as independent, wherein it is more likely that they have their own political views which may be different from those of the privileged class.
Taguinod, Alexe Thomas F., 2 POL 2
ReplyDeleteIn the “Political Theory and Political Economy” article, Stephen Elkin discusses the relationships of three major actors in society namely the middle or working class, the state itself and the capitalist. These three actors play a dynamic role in maintaining the political and economical atmosphere of the United States of America at a good climate. The good point here is that one cannot gain too much of an advantage over the other actors to the point that it disrupts that balance which is bad news for all three actors. The bad side here is that middle class has already started off at a disadvantage in comparison to the power held by the capitalist and it is up to the state to keep the balance steady. The logical solution here would be to empower the middle class and to keep the capitalists in check.
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ReplyDeleteBorreo, Brylle N., 2 pol 2
ReplyDeleteYes, it is true that business class weighs the greatest in all of the interest groups, yet many still too close minded to accept that the only thing that matters say, to politicians, is the economic aspect of life. We should understand that all that we do is purely economic and essentially political, and realize incompatibilities and compatibility of market and policies. Democratic way gives light for capitalism not only because, in a sense, it is a economic leaning type of government but also because capitalist gave birth to politicians. It should be clear that most political leaders came from the business class. And that both economic and political circulates around their own corners.
Lozada, Jomel B.
ReplyDelete2pol2
The article discusses about capitalism and democracy are compatible with each other. Democracy is a hallucination of the people that concerned with the fair gain of opportunities, it creates a distinction between the men will only gain opportunities if they have a capital for it. It supports the middle class if the middle class is strong. Elkin shows the right of property that proposes freedom of choice and generally liberalism. It creates what is the greatest solution to empower the middle class due to the middle class is somewhat is the most powerful social class.
Salvador, Marti Glen P.,2pol2
ReplyDeleteThe article "Political theory and Political Economy" tells the importance of capitalism in democracy and the role of the Capitalists to the economy of the people in the country. The Capitalists most of the time are seen by some people as only interested in their own gain/profit.But, even if that is true The capitalists still provides the economy jobs which helps the people in the country. Which is why the capitalists are important in the progress of the economy of our government. The government also effect the economy by passing laws to control the quality of the businesses. Which leads me to conclude that Politics and the economy have a mutual relationship.
Baltazar, Arjam., 2POL2
ReplyDeleteElkin's Political Theory and Political Economy discusses the relation of a democratic-capitalist government and on how could it reach success. The problem with that is that there's no heavy intervention between the capitalist class, which the concern is the market or the economy, and the democratic class, which the concern is the people or the citizens. Those people in the capitalist class are those who belong in the ruling class and because there concern is the market, the money, they don't care anymore with the citizens. The dominant middle class should play a big role on improving the state but it couldn't be possible without a reach of the big businessmen or the ruling class. They should be fixed in pursuing a single goal, and that is to progress the state for their welfare.
Stephen Elkin's Political Theory and Political Economy states that we, political scientists, should accept capitalism as a considerable contributor of democracy. its becomes the driving force of democracy. It highly reinforces the middle class and creates a difference between the business men that enjoys advantages limited to them only. The middle class is the strongest class due to its capability to moderate trends, and is the dividing class from the poor and the rich. The middle class can broaden the interests of big business, by changing the ownership and control of capital, and through excistence and benefaction of a strong middle class.
ReplyDeleteMALABONGA, Mark Oliver T. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteIt seems that the argument of Stephen Elkin talks about the capitalist businessmen affecting the government and the country’s condition. Basically, it means that the businessmen would have access to the government officials, for the former's actions and decisions can affect the economic status the nation, by being consulted on all major economic issues. Being the most powerful interest group, the businessmen are the ones who act as “counselors” of those public officials who deal with economic problems. Hence, what Elkin argued is that in order the democratic-capitalism to be strong, there must be a well-ordered (meaning secured and confident) middle class, because the public officials depends on what they contribute to the national economy.
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ReplyDeleteMarcos, Elaine Mariz R. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe Political Theory and Political Economy of Elkin discussed the importance of economy in making a sound political theory. It says there that in order to make an effective political theory, you must focus on how to develop the economy. Because empirically speaking, economy is the most important concern of the people and government for it sustains the welfare of the citizens living in the particular country and it is also the basis of wealth of a state. Elkin also discussed the overshadowing of Capitalism to Democracy. For the reason that there are many businesses that have large-scale capital, Capitalists rule or direct the political life of the society.
Baclig, Nadene Stephanie R., 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe capitalists that occupy the upper level of society are few in numbers compared to the middle class and the lower class. Since the middle class is dominant and they consume goods, they have the capacity to demand for reforms and legislation that will enable everyone to receive equal opportunity to earn (ex. taxing the employers a larger percentage than the employees). I propose a theory called "assertion theory" that will give emphasis on the middle and lower classes; through this, the government will control the capitalists rather than the other way around. The state will pass laws that will empower and provide for the middle and lower classes. An example would be raising the salary for blue-collar workers who are mostly from the lower class; thus enabling them to have a sustainable life and promoting them as the new middle class.
Santos, Gerard R. , 2pol2
ReplyDeleteThe article "Political theory and Political Economy" discusses about the self interest of individual.There are three social classes that consist of business men (propertied)has the most influence in politics because of their capital; The middle class are the skilled workers and followed by the traditional working class provides muscle power. They are the reason for the foundation of the government. If their a middle class, it ensure equal measure of economic at the time the political equality as well
Co, Rafael M. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteGiven the proposition stated in the article that the large-scale asset-controllers must have a privileged political position, that came with the advent of capitalism, the article highlights how to handle such and gave example like taking due account of the privileged position of business but do not allow that privilege to undercut significantly the kind of extensive popular control of authority that is part of democracy's value. In retrospect, this "privilege position" was handled by our country's own business men and land owners when the democratization of the Philippines began. I agree to the article that the property rights of the state and people be protected and it is necessary for the government, though, there is a need to control the self-interest of those propertied class and to get this class to serve the government that would not be an exercise in class rule. I affirm to the given solutions by the author on how to control the broadening interest of the propertied class. Increasing the power of the Middle class, like owning investments and private ownership, that the propertied class' decision in the government benefits them both.
Joya, Donald Jude H. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteAccording to Stephen Elkin in his article Political Theory and Political Economy that the middle class society should be well-ordered to have more economic opportunities. Stephen Elkin also suggests that the state should intervene the middle class. The government should discipline the middle class to ensure its well-orderliness because the middle class is one of the foundations to have a stable and strong economy.
MILLA, Marie Arlyenne B. 2Pol2
ReplyDeleteAccording to Stephen Elkin on his Political Theory and Political Economy, there is a contention that the Western concepts of Capitalism and Democracy are inseparable and must be naturally linked. And interest groups or businessmen acts as the foundation of this relationship because these people are empowered with their properties, gaining or having an advantage to political activities. In the Philippine context, this is not applicable for our country for it does not produce capitalists to authorize a successful democratic-capitalist country. On the other hand, there are countries that are able and were able to succeed in producing this relationship, like China, Korea, Taiwan and other Tiger economies known to be successful politically as well, until today.
Almazar, Ana Dominique A. 2Pol2
ReplyDeleteShowing the feasibility of two contrasting concepts working together, Stephen Elkin posited the idea of capitalism working in a democratic type of government through his work “Political Theory and Political Economy.” Both the economy and politics greatly affect each other in achieving their respective goals which are commonly ground to the betterment of the state; however, not all economic ideas share the same value promoted by the thoughts accepted in politics and vice versa. According to the article, democracy and capitalism go hand in hand and these two concepts collaborating with the objective of shaping an improved state can be realized through the strengthening of the middle-class, members of whom would serve as the equilibrium point of the two ideas by preventing the capitalists to focus on themselves and thus making the interest of the majority more open for acceptance.
GLORIA, Louie B. 2Pol2
ReplyDeletePolitical Economy talks about on how capitalism is related with democracy and the special roles being played by the asset-controllers as actors in a society. In capitalism, though the owners of the large scale capital or the big businessmen are the powerful in the society, the middle class still plays a big role for economic growth. In a democratic system, the interest of the majority was being followed for the common good, and they are the people in the middle class. In order to gain economic growth and development of the society, the interests of the middle class in participating in the market should be broaden. The government now takes action on how this would be possible by organizing projects like providing more job opportunities so that they would earn more income and be able to make business with the large-scale capital owners.
Sindac, Kristin Elaine G.
ReplyDelete2Pol2
In Christine Helliwell and Barry Hindess’ article on Political Theory and Social Theory, the aforementioned notions are claimed to be of normative nature, seeking to address the rights and obligations of an individual as a part of a political arena while noting the ideal and the actual process on how politics work in the society; and the nature of human sociality. Helliwell and Hindess states that these theories are undoubtedly related to each other because of the ‘common intellectual history’. Furthermore, they claim that since political theory focuses on the descriptive issues of social and political life, it could then be said that it is a sub-branch of social theory which, on the other hand, deals with the explanation on how these issues exist and affect humanity. However, it would make a plausible point to say that Social Theory’s nature to provide an explanation does not necessarily mean that it is of a higher dominion in the academe. It only suggests that the propensity of Social Theory to explain human nature makes it the most utilized area of study among the fields in social sciences.
Eslava, Timothy Joseph J. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteIn Stephen Elkin’s Political Theory and Economy, he stated Marx’s belief that a democracy’s political theory should be a political economy because capitalism and the former do share an intricate link and I do see why for democracy provides an avenue for economic development. The issue regarding the big businessmen and their role in political activity was also raised. The political privilege and positions held by the large-scale asset-controllers can prove to be both positive and negative—if it were used for the broader interest of the other strata or for personal narrow interest of these businessmen.
I agree with the author as he proposed safeguards and restrictions for this stratum, as they may prove to be a threat or an aid to country’s political economy.At the end of the day, these businessmen contribute a lot to economic prosperity and must be given due rights but must also be supervised to prevent any abuse of economic power.
Tanaka, Yuwki O. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteStephen Elkin's Political Theory and Political Economy states that we, political scientists, should accept capitalism as a considerable contributor of democracy. its becomes the driving force of democracy. It highly reinforces the middle class and creates a difference between the business men that enjoys advantages limited to them only. The middle class is the strongest class due to its capability to moderate trends, and is the dividing class from the poor and the rich. The middle class can broaden the interests of big business, by changing the ownership and control of capital, and through excistence and benefaction of a strong middle class.
Cruz, Anne Katrin N. 2POL2
ReplyDeleteThe proposal of the article is that in having a capitalist-democratic country or society is more possible through the middle-class. The middle class may not have all the riches and may not have the body to labor, like the working class, but they do have certain skills to help in governing. A well ordered working class may bring the capitalist-democratic state. They can promote what a capitalist stands for, and on the other hand they know what is best for the good of all not just for them.
Concepcion, Bobbie Glenn V., 1BES2
ReplyDeleteFor me the best theories that describes it are Political Theory and Political Economy,Keynesian economics advocates a mixed economy, predominantly private sector, but with a significant role of government and public sector and served as the economic model during the later part of the Great Depression, World War II, and the post-war economic expansion (1945–1973), though it lost some influence following the stagflation of the 1970s. The advent of the global financial crisis in 2008 has caused a resurgence in Keynesian thought.