Statement: Should India have only two political parties? Arguments: I. Yes. Many developed countries have only two parties. II. No. Indian voters are not mature enough to choose between only two parties. Choose the option that best identifies the strong argument(s).
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Aif only Arguments I is strong
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Bif only Arguments II is strong
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Cif either I or II is strong
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Dif neither I nor II is strong
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Eif both I and II are strong
Answer
Correct Answer: if neither I nor II is strong
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Party-system design emerges from electoral rules (e.g., first-past-the-post vs proportional representation), federalism, and social diversity. Strong arguments should appeal to institutional fit and representation, not simplistic comparisons or disparaging claims.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- India is a federal, multilingual, multi-ethnic democracy.
- Electoral laws and districting shape party proliferation more than aspirational copying.
Concept / Approach:Evaluate whether each argument justifies the system change.
Step-by-Step Solution:Argument I: Citing “developed countries” is a weak analogy. Their party structures reflect unique institutions and histories; this does not prove suitability for India.Argument II: Claiming voters are “not mature enough” is pejorative and irrelevant to institutional design; it neither respects democratic agency nor addresses representation needs. Hence weak.
Verification / Alternative check:Stronger arguments would address coalition stability, regional representation, and electoral reform (runoffs, thresholds) rather than stereotypes.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:Any option favouring I/II treats non-reasons as decisive. “Either” elevates two weak claims; “both” is self-contradictory and still unreasoned.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing correlation (two-party outcomes) with causation (electoral laws) and normative desirability.
Final Answer:Neither I nor II is strong.