Edward Shils argued that the political development of a country should be evaluated based on the strength, adaptability, and effectiveness of its political institutions. He believed that well-developed political institutions are fundamental for a stable and functioning society. These institutions include legislatures, political parties, executive bodies, and judicial systems that work to regulate political behavior, mediate conflicts, and implement policies.
According to Shils, the institutionalization of politics involves creating structures that can withstand the pressures of modernization and change while maintaining order and legitimacy. Political development is characterized by institutions that can respond effectively to societal demands and adapt to new challenges without collapsing or becoming obsolete. This means institutions must have the capacity to integrate diverse interests, foster participation, and maintain a balance between maintaining authority and allowing for public input.
Shils emphasized that without strong institutions, countries face political instability, ineffective governance, and susceptibility to political decay. Therefore, measuring a country's political development involves assessing how well its institutions promote stability, manage participation, uphold laws, and maintain authority across the society. A high level of political institutionalization indicates that a country is capable of managing modernization and societal change effectively, which is key to sustained development.
