Which one of the following is the traditional approach to the study of comparative politics?

The correct answer is 'Institutional approach'

Key Points

• Institutional approach:
  • This approach focuses on the formal structures and institutions of political systems, such as legislatures, executives, and judiciaries.
  • It examines how these institutions are organized, how they function, and how they interact with each other.
  • The institutional approach is one of the oldest and most traditional methods in the field of comparative politics, providing a framework for understanding the political dynamics within different countries.

Additional Information

• Quantitative approach:
  • This method involves the use of statistical and mathematical models to analyze political phenomena.
  • It relies heavily on data collection and numerical analysis to identify patterns and correlations.
  • While valuable, this approach is more modern and less focused on traditional institutional structures.
• Psychological approach:
  • This approach studies the psychological factors that influence political behavior, such as individual attitudes, perceptions, and motivations.
  • It is more concerned with the behavior of individuals rather than the formal structures of political systems.
  • Although important, it does not provide a comprehensive view of political institutions themselves.
• Sociological approach:
  • This approach examines the social contexts within which political systems operate, including social structures, relationships, and cultural norms.
  • It seeks to understand how social factors influence political behavior and institutions.
  • While it provides valuable insights, it does not focus solely on the formal political institutions as the institutional approach does.