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what is political science?

what is political science?

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Anika’s Answer

Hi Taylor,
Political science is a social science discipline that studies the theory and practice of government, politics, and political behavior. It explores various aspects of political systems, institutions, processes, ideologies, and behaviors that shape societies and govern the distribution of power and resources. Here are key aspects of political science:

Political Theory:

Examines concepts such as justice, democracy, liberty, authority, and power. It explores the philosophical foundations of political systems and ideologies.
Comparative Politics:

Analyzes different political systems, institutions, and processes across countries and regions. It explores how political systems vary and the factors influencing their development and performance.
International Relations:

Focuses on the interactions between states, international organizations, and global actors. It examines topics such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, international law, and global governance.
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Jerry’s Answer

I taught Political Science for thirty-eight years.

First, it may be a "social science", but that doesn't make it a science.

It is an exploration of politics from any different angles.

International: Different approaches to governing.

US: local, state and national. The Constitution. Constitutional law. Governance and different approaches.

The relationship between history and political states.

Educationally, at this point I would not get involved in any of the social sciences. Unless you then want to go to law school. Today it is tech and/or finance where the jobs are. This is not to say that one cannot do a social science and succeed. But the odds are not in your favor.
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Sasha’s Answer

Hello Taylor,

Political science is an intriguing exploration of power and politics, viewed through a variety of lenses such as domestic, international, and comparative perspectives. It's a deep dive into understanding political ideologies, institutions, policies, processes, and behaviors. It also encompasses the study of diverse groups, classes, government structures, diplomacy, law, strategic planning, and warfare. Having a foundation in political science not only enriches your understanding as a citizen and political participant, but also opens up a world of career opportunities in fields like government, law, business, media, or public service.

Political science is essentially a quest to unravel the workings of politics. It seeks to answer numerous intriguing questions such as:
Why do nations go to war?
What prevents Democrats and Republicans in Congress from working together?
What makes some countries wealthy while others remain poor?
What does ethical behavior in politics entail?

Wondering if This Major Is the Perfect Match for You?
If you're passionate about understanding, advocating, and debating political viewpoints, a major in political science could be just the right fit for you. Enrolling in a government program allows you to hone your skills as a writer, speaker, and critical thinker. Plus, it gives you the chance to delve into a plethora of topics pertinent to both domestic and international politics, including American public opinion, nuclear security, and the European Union.

If the ideas that form the foundation of the political world pique your interest, you might find your niche in studying political theory. If your aspirations lie in law school, public policy, or any other related field, political science could be the ideal choice for you.

I hope this information serves as a helpful guide for you. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Thank you comment icon Loved reading this, thanks! Rachael
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the great explanation! This is something I have also wondered about for a long time. I hadn’t realized it involved so many things. Wendy
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Taylor!

Unpacking Political Science:

Political science is a branch of social science that delves into the exploration of government systems, political conduct, power hierarchies, public policies, and political processes. It aims to decipher the workings of governments, the decision-making in politics, and the political organization of societies. Subfields of political science encompass comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public administration, and public policy.

Decoding Key Concepts in Political Science:

Government Systems: Political science scrutinizes various government forms like democracies, monarchies, dictatorships, and the roles of institutions within these systems.

Political Behavior: This study field probes into the behavior of individuals and groups in the political arena, including voting trends, public sentiment, political involvement, and social movements.

Power Structures: Political scientists dissect power dynamics within societies, focusing on the power distribution among various players like governments, interest groups, and citizens.

Public Policies: The investigation of public policies includes the analysis of governmental decision-making processes to tackle societal issues and the implementation of programs that affect citizens.

Political Processes: This area delves into the mechanisms that drive political decision-making, including elections, legislative processes, policy-making procedures, and international negotiations.

Why Political Science Matters:

Decoding Governance: Political science aids individuals in understanding how governments operate and how policies are crafted and executed.

Empowering Citizens: Learning about political science equips individuals with knowledge about their democratic rights and responsibilities.

Policy Evaluation: Political scientists are instrumental in assessing existing policies and suggesting solutions to societal issues.

Understanding International Relations: Political science plays a significant role in understanding global politics, diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international cooperation.

Enhancing Critical Thinking: Political science fosters critical thinking by examining diverse perspectives on political issues and promoting analytical reasoning.

Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:

Encyclopædia Britannica: A trusted source for academic knowledge across various disciplines, including political science.

Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Offers comprehensive articles on political theory and related topics from a philosophical standpoint.

American Political Science Association (APSA): A professional body that promotes scholarly research and education in political science.

God Bless,
JC.
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