The mid-twentieth century witnessed a significant questioning of the relevance of traditional political theory, particularly as new approaches in political science emerged. Alfred Cobban's critique in "The Decline of Political Theory" reflected the belief that political theory had become increasingly irrelevant in both capitalist and communist systems. In these contexts, Cobban argued, bureaucracy and oligarchy overshadowed the role of political theory, reducing its practical significance.
Similarly, Seymour Martin Lipset's "Political Man: The Social Bases of Politics" expressed skepticism about the ongoing relevance of political theory, suggesting that the core values of contemporary society had already been established. Lipset’s argument aligns with the idea presented later by Francis Fukuyama in "The End of History," where the end of ideological evolution supposedly leaves little room for traditional political theory.
However, this perceived decline was not the end of political theory. Dante Germino, in "Beyond Ideology: The Revival of Political Theory," highlighted a resurgence of political thought, particularly in the works of thinkers like Michael Oakeshott, Hannah Arendt, Bertrand de Jouvenal, Leo Strauss, and Eric Voegelin. These scholars brought political theory back into prominence, emphasizing the need for normative foundations in political inquiry.
While political theory may have faced periods of decline, it remains essential for a robust understanding of political life. The revival of interest in normative questions suggests that empirical methods alone are insufficient without a guiding theoretical framework. Political theory's role, therefore, persists as a critical element in comprehending and shaping the political world.
