Class 10 Social Science - ODISHA
Political Science: Power-sharing
The chapter 'Power-sharing' in Class 10 Political Science (BSE Odisha) explores how power is distributed among different organs of government, social groups, and levels to ensure democratic stability. It uses the contrasting case studies of Belgium and Sri Lanka to illustrate the benefits of power-sharing and the perils of majoritarianism. Students learn about federalism, coalition governments, and horizontal and vertical power distribution. This chapter is vital for board exams as it tests foundational democratic principles through direct theoretical questions and case-based analysis, frequently appearing in both objective and long-answer formats.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Majoritarianism
A belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority.
Prudential Reason for Power-sharing
The argument that power-sharing is good because it helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups and ensures political stability.
Moral Reason for Power-sharing
The argument that power-sharing is valuable in itself because it is the very spirit of democracy, giving citizens a right to be consulted on how they are governed.
Horizontal Distribution of Power
Power shared among different organs of government such as the legislature, executive, and judiciary, practicing a system of checks and balances.
Vertical Distribution of Power
Power shared among governments at different levels, such as a general central government and regional or provincial state governments.
Community Government
A unique system in Belgium elected by people belonging to one language community—Dutch, French, and German-speaking—regardless of where they live, dealing with cultural and educational issues.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Odisha BSE Class 10 Social Science board examination, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks. Questions usually include 1-mark objective/multiple-choice questions, 2-mark short notes (like prudential vs. moral reasons), and 3 to 4-mark analytical questions comparing the ethnic compositions and political steps taken in Belgium and Sri Lanka.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is power-sharing desirable in a democracy?
Power-sharing is desirable for two main reasons: prudential reasons (it reduces social conflict and ensures political stability) and moral reasons (it is the true spirit of democracy where citizens have a say in governance).
What is the main difference between horizontal and vertical power-sharing?
Horizontal power-sharing is among different organs of government at the same level (Legislature, Executive, Judiciary) with a system of checks and balances. Vertical power-sharing is between different levels of government (Central, State, Local).
How did Belgium and Sri Lanka handle their ethnic diversity differently?
Belgium accommodated its diverse linguistic groups by sharing power equally among Dutch and French-speaking populations through a complex constitution. Sri Lanka followed a majoritarian approach, favoring the Sinhala majority, which led to ethnic strife and civil war.
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