Political Science is the systematic study of power, governance, political institutions, and political behavior in society. It examines how authority is created, exercised, justified, and challenged within states and across the global system. As one of the core social science disciplines, Political Science plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand how societies are governed and how political decisions shape everyday life.
Despite its importance, many students find Political Science difficult to understand. The subject often appears abstract because it deals with complex theories, philosophical debates, unfamiliar terminology, and overlapping concepts drawn from history, sociology, economics, and law. Traditional textbooks frequently emphasize memorization of thinkers and definitions rather than conceptual clarity, which makes learning stressful and fragmented.
This comprehensive guide explains Political Science in a clear, structured, and exam-oriented manner. It covers the meaning and definitions of Political Science, its nature and scope, major branches, key approaches, important political thinkers, practical importance, comparisons with other social sciences, career opportunities, and common misconceptions. Each section is designed to build conceptual understanding step by step rather than overwhelm the reader.
Whether you are a BA or MA Political Science student, a civil service aspirant, a competitive exam candidate, or a general reader interested in politics and governance, this article will serve as a complete reference and learning hub.
What Is Political Science? (Definition & Meaning)
Political Science is a social science that studies politics, power, governance, and political processes in society. It seeks to understand how political authority is organized, how decisions are made, and how individuals and groups influence political outcomes.
Classical Definition of Political Science
The classical understanding of Political Science originates from ancient Greek thinkers, particularly Aristotle. Aristotle defined Political Science as the study of the state (polis) and regarded it as the “master science” because it determines the framework within which all other sciences operate. According to this view, Political Science is closely connected with ethics and morality, as its ultimate aim is to achieve the good life for citizens.
Classical political thinkers focused on:
- The nature of the state
- Forms of government
- Citizenship and civic virtue
- Justice, law, and constitutional arrangements
Politics, in the classical sense, was not merely about power but about moral purpose and collective well-being.
Modern Definition of Political Science
Modern Political Science moved beyond the narrow focus on the state. David Easton famously defined politics as the “authoritative allocation of values in society.” This definition highlights how power and authority determine who gets what, when, and how.
Modern definitions emphasize:
- Political behavior and participation
- Power relationships
- Decision-making processes
- Institutions and public policy
This shift broadened Political Science into a dynamic discipline concerned with both formal and informal aspects of politics.
Political Science Explained Simply
In simple terms, Political Science studies how power works in society. It explains how governments are formed, how laws and policies are made, how citizens participate, how conflicts are resolved, and how political systems differ across countries. It helps people understand politics not as chaos, but as a structured and explainable process.
Introduction to Political Science
Nature of Political Science
The nature of Political Science refers to its basic characteristics, methods, and scope as a discipline. Scholars have long debated whether Political Science is a science, an art, or a combination of both.
Is Political Science a Science or an Art?
Political Science is considered a social science, not a natural science. It uses scientific methods such as observation, comparison, classification, and analysis, but it cannot conduct controlled experiments like physics or chemistry because political phenomena involve human behavior, values, and choices.
Political Science can be described as:
- Scientific in method
- Philosophical in reasoning
- Normative in values
Thus, it combines scientific analysis with ethical inquiry.
Normative vs Empirical Nature
Political Science has two major dimensions:
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Normative Political Science deals with values and ideals such as justice, liberty, equality, and rights. It asks what ought to be.
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Empirical Political Science focuses on facts, data, and observable political behavior. It asks what is.
Modern Political Science emphasizes empirical research while still engaging with normative questions.
Political Science as a Social Science
As a social science, Political Science studies society from the perspective of power and authority. It interacts closely with sociology, economics, history, and law, yet maintains its unique focus on political institutions and processes.
| Aspect | Focus |
|---|---|
| Normative | Values and ideals |
| Empirical | Facts and behavior |
| Analytical | Interpretation and explanation |
Is Political Science a Science?
Scope of Political Science
The scope of Political Science refers to the range of topics and areas it covers. Over time, its scope has expanded significantly.
Major Areas of Study
| Area | What It Studies |
|---|---|
| Political Theory | Political ideas and ideologies |
| Comparative Politics | Political systems and institutions |
| Public Administration | Government functioning |
| International Relations | Global politics |
| Political Sociology | Relationship between society and power |
Traditional Scope
Traditionally, Political Science was limited to:
- The study of the state
- Government and constitutions
- Legal and formal institutions
This approach was mainly descriptive and institutional.
Modern Scope
The modern scope includes:
- Political behavior and participation
- Political parties and pressure groups
- Public opinion and media
- Public policy and governance
- International and global politics
This expansion has made Political Science more relevant to contemporary social and political realities.
Major Branches of Political Science
Political Science is divided into several interrelated branches.
Political Theory
Political Theory examines political ideas, concepts, and philosophies such as justice, liberty, equality, democracy, and rights. It studies the works of thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, Locke, Marx, and Rawls to understand how political ideas shape institutions and societies.
Comparative Politics
Comparative Politics compares political systems across countries. It analyzes constitutions, governments, electoral systems, and political cultures to identify patterns and differences.
Public Administration
Public Administration focuses on the implementation of government policies. It studies bureaucracy, administrative behavior, public management, and governance reforms.
International Relations
International Relations deals with interactions between states and global actors. It covers diplomacy, war, peace, foreign policy, international organizations, and globalization.
Political Sociology
Political Sociology explores how social factors such as class, religion, ethnicity, and culture influence political power and participation.
Major Approaches in Political Science
Approaches provide different ways of analyzing political phenomena.
Philosophical Approach
This approach emphasizes ethical reasoning and normative questions. It dominated classical political thought.
Historical Approach
The historical approach studies political institutions and ideas in their historical context.
Institutional Approach
It focuses on formal political institutions such as legislatures, executives, and courts.
Behavioral Approach
The behavioral approach emphasizes empirical research and the study of political behavior using data and observation.
Systems Approach
The systems approach views politics as a system of inputs (demands, support) and outputs (policies, decisions).
Key Political Thinkers (Overview)
| Thinker | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Plato | Concept of the ideal state |
| Aristotle | Politics as a systematic science |
| Machiavelli | Power and political realism |
| John Locke | Liberalism and natural rights |
| Karl Marx | Class struggle and ideology |
Importance of Political Science
Importance for Students
Political Science develops analytical thinking, critical reasoning, and writing skills.
Importance for Democracy
It educates citizens about rights, duties, and democratic participation.
Importance for Public Policy
Political Science helps in understanding policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation.
Importance in Daily Life
From voting to public services, political decisions affect everyday life.
Political Science vs Other Social Sciences
| Discipline | Focus |
|---|---|
| Political Science | Power and governance |
| Sociology | Society and relationships |
| Economics | Wealth and resources |
| History | Past events |
Common Misconceptions About Political Science
It is only about politics and politicians
It has no career scope
It is purely theoretical
These misconceptions ignore the discipline’s practical relevance.
Career Scope in Political Science
Academic Careers
Civil Services
Research & Policy
Media & NGOs
Political Science offers diverse and expanding career opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is political science easy to study?
Political Science becomes easy when concepts are understood rather than memorized.
Is political science useful for civil services?
Yes, it provides strong conceptual foundations for governance-related exams.
What skills are required for political science?
Critical thinking, analytical ability, and communication skills.
Does political science have job opportunities?
Yes, in academics, public service, research, media, and NGOs.
Is political science theoretical or practical?
It combines both theory and practical application.
Can political science help in daily life?
Yes, it improves political awareness and civic responsibility.
Conclusion
Political Science is a comprehensive and dynamic discipline that helps us understand power, governance, and political behavior in society. From classical political philosophy to modern policy analysis, it provides essential tools for interpreting political developments at national and global levels.
By studying Political Science systematically, students gain not only academic knowledge but also practical insights into democracy, governance, and citizenship. As political challenges grow more complex in the modern world, the relevance of Political Science will continue to expand.
Readers are encouraged to explore detailed notes, comparative articles, and practice questions available across this site to deepen their understanding.