CSS Political Science Past Paper 2018
Complete guide to the CSS Political Science paper from 2018. Understand the format, key topics, and how to prepare effectively.
Paper Overview
Paper Format
Two papers covering Western and Muslim political thought, comparative politics, political systems, and governance theories.
Paper Pattern & Structure
Paper I: Political theory, Western and Muslim political thought, ideologies. Paper II: Comparative politics, political systems, governance. Each paper presents 8 questions; candidates answer any 4.
Key Topics Covered
Based on analysis of CSS Political Science papers, these are the key topics that candidates should focus on:
Preparation Tips
Study major political philosophers systematically — Plato through Rawls for Western thought
Give equal attention to Muslim political thinkers, especially Iqbal's political philosophy
Compare political systems (Presidential vs Parliamentary, Federal vs Unitary) with real examples
Read Mazhar ul Haq's 'Political Science' as primary textbook
Practice linking theoretical concepts to Pakistan's political development
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Political Science differ from International Relations?
Political Science focuses on political theory, governance systems, and domestic politics. IR focuses on relations between states and global politics. They complement each other well as a subject pair.
Which paper is more scoring?
Paper I (political theory) is generally considered more scoring because theoretical questions allow for structured, analytical answers with clear frameworks.
Is Political Science easier than IR?
Neither is inherently easier. Political Science requires deeper theoretical knowledge while IR requires broader current affairs awareness. Choose based on your interests.
What books should I study?
Mazhar ul Haq's Political Science, Asif Rashid's Western Political Thought, and S.P. Varma's Modern Political Theory are essential reading.