Definition of Political Science

Definition of Political Science: Understanding the Science of Politics

Political Science is one of the most important and dynamic disciplines in the field of social sciences. It plays a critical role in helping us understand how governments function, how political power is distributed, and how public policies affect our everyday lives. Whether you are a student, a curious citizen, or a political enthusiast, understanding the definition and scope of political science is crucial in today’s world.

What is Political Science?

Political Science is the systematic study of politics, government systems, public policies, political processes, and political behavior. It seeks to understand how political power is acquired, used, and maintained within societies.

The term "Political Science" is derived from two words:

• ‘Politics’ — relating to governance and decision-making processes.

• ‘Science’ — indicating a structured and analytical approach to studying a subject.

Political science is both descriptive and analytical. It does not just describe political events but also explains why they occur, predicts future developments, and sometimes even recommends policies or solutions.

At its core, political science is concerned with answering important questions such as:

• Who holds power?

• How is power distributed and exercised?

• What is the role of citizens in a democracy?

• How do laws, policies, and institutions shape society?

Political science is both a theoretical and practical discipline. It involves the philosophical examination of political ideas like justice, liberty, and equality, as well as the analysis of real-world political events, systems, and structures.

Political scientists study a wide range of topics including:

• Government systems (democracy, monarchy, authoritarianism)

• Political ideologies (liberalism, socialism, conservatism)

• Elections and voting behavior

• Public administration and policy-making

• International relations and diplomacy

In summary, political science helps us understand how society is organized and governed, how decisions are made, and how individuals and institutions interact in the political realm. It equips citizens with the knowledge to actively participate in governance and promotes the ideals of democracy, justice, and good governance.

Definitions of Political Science by Scholars

1. Aristotle

“Political Science is the master science.”
Aristotle viewed political science as the highest form of practical science because it deals with the welfare of the community and the regulation of human affairs through governance.

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2. Plato

“Political Science is the science of justice and the good life.”
Plato emphasized the moral and ethical aspects of political life, aiming to create an ideal state based on justice and virtue.

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3. Cicero

“The science of politics is concerned with the welfare of the people.”
Cicero, a Roman philosopher, emphasized the importance of law, statecraft, and civic responsibility in political studies.

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4. Thomas Hobbes

“Political science is the science of power.”
For Hobbes, understanding politics meant understanding how authority and control are exercised to maintain peace and prevent chaos.

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5. Jean Bodin

“Political Science is the study of sovereignty.”
Bodin focused on the concept of sovereignty as central to the nature of political authority and government.

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6. Niccolò Machiavelli

“Politics is the art of the possible.”
Machiavelli viewed politics as a practical discipline, focused more on maintaining power than on ideals or ethics.

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7. Harold Lasswell

“Political science is the study of who gets what, when, and how.”
This definition emphasizes power, distribution, and decision-making, focusing on the practical side of politics.

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8. David Easton

“Political science is the authoritative allocation of values in a society.”
Easton explained how political systems make decisions that distribute values (such as justice, rights, and resources) within a society.

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9. Charles Merriam

“Political science is concerned with the conditions and methods of government.”
He promoted a scientific approach to studying politics, including behavior and psychology.

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10. Garner

“Political science begins and ends with the state.”
Garner took a classical view, emphasizing the study of the state, its origin, structure, and functions.

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11. Gilchrist

“Political science deals with the state and the conditions essential for its development.”
This definition focuses on how states grow and operate under different political conditions.

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12. Paul Janet

“Political science is that part of social science which treats of the foundations of the State and the principles of government.”
He saw political science as a branch of social science focusing on governance.

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13. J.W. Garner

“Political Science is concerned with the state, its origin, its nature, its structure, and its functions.”
Garner defined political science narrowly, sticking to the concept of the state.

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14. Gettell

“Political Science is the historical investigation of what the state has been, an analytical study of what the state is, and a political-ethical discussion of what the state ought to be.”
Gettell merged the past, present, and future in his definition.

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15. Catlin

“Political Science is the study of the act of human and social control or the study of control relationship of wills.”
Catlin emphasized control, power, and authority as central themes in politics.

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16. Leacock

“Political Science deals with government – the organization of power and the machinery through which it is exercised.”
Leacock focused on institutions and power structures.

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🟩 Summary: Common Themes in Definitions

Across all these scholars, we can identify some common themes:

• State and government (Aristotle, Garner, Gilchrist)

• Power and control (Hobbes, Lasswell, Catlin)

• Justice and ethics (Plato, Gettell)

• Authority and sovereignty (Bodin, Easton)

• Practical governance and decision-making (Machiavelli, Lasswell, Leacock)

The definition of political science varies depending on the thinker and the time period. While classical scholars emphasized philosophy, justice, and the state, modern scholars have shifted focus to power, decision-making, behavior, and empirical analysis. Together, these definitions help us understand political science as a comprehensive and evolving field that continues to shape our understanding of governance and society.

Scope of Political Science

The scope of Political Science refers to the range of topics, issues, and areas the discipline covers. It is not limited to the study of the state and government but extends to understanding political behavior, institutions, ideologies, international relations, public policies, and more.

Political science seeks to answer important questions such as:

• How is power distributed in society?

• What role do citizens play in governance?

• How do states interact on a global level?

• What are the effects of political decisions on people’s lives?

Let’s explore the major areas that fall under the scope of political science:

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🔵 1. Political Theory

Political theory deals with ideas, values, and principles that define and justify political arrangements.

• It explores concepts like justice, liberty, equality, democracy, rights, and sovereignty.

• Studies both classical political thought (Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli) and modern political ideologies (liberalism, socialism, feminism).

• It can be normative (what ought to be) or empirical (what is).

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🔵 2. Comparative Politics

This branch compares political systems, institutions, and processes across different countries.

• Analyzes forms of governments (democracy, authoritarianism, monarchy, etc.)

• Studies elections, parties, constitutions, judiciary, and political cultures.

• Helps in understanding different governance models and their impact on development and stability.

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🔵 3. International Relations (IR)

International Relations focuses on relations between nations, especially in terms of diplomacy, war, peace, trade, and global issues.

• Covers foreign policy, international organizations (UN, WTO), international law, treaties, conflicts, terrorism, and globalization.

• It helps in studying how states cooperate or clash in the international system.

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🔵 4. Public Administration

Public Administration studies the implementation of government policies and the functioning of administrative machinery.

• Focuses on bureaucracy, organization theory, decision-making, budgeting, and policy analysis.

• It is closely linked to the study of governance, public services, and development administration.

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🔵 5. Political Economy

Political Economy deals with the relationship between politics and economics.

• It examines how economic policies are influenced by political interests and how government actions affect economic performance.

• Topics include taxation, regulation, capitalism, socialism, and welfare economics.

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🔵 6. Political Sociology

Political Sociology studies the relationship between society and politics.

• Examines how social structures (class, caste, religion, ethnicity, gender) influence political behavior and policy-making.

• Explores the role of public opinion, political culture, media, and civil society.

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🔵 7. Political Psychology

This area looks at the psychological factors that influence political behavior.

• Studies voting behavior, personality traits of leaders, political attitudes, perception, and propaganda.

• Helps understand how emotions, identity, and psychology shape political choices.

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🔵 8. Law and Constitution

Political science also includes the study of constitutional law and legal institutions.

• Examines the framework of governments, fundamental rights, duties, and principles of justice and equality.

• Focuses on judicial systems, rule of law, and constitutional amendments.

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🔵 9. Policy Studies and Governance

This sub-field examines how public policies are designed, implemented, and evaluated.

• Includes the study of good governance, transparency, accountability, and digital governance.

• Helps in making government more efficient and people-centric.

The scope of political science is vast and interdisciplinary. It not only studies traditional subjects like the state, government, and law but also engages deeply with society, economy, international affairs, and public behavior.

Political Science helps build a well-informed citizenry and offers insights that are critical for effective policymaking, democratic participation, and peaceful international coexistence.

Why Is Political Science Important?

Understanding political science helps individuals and societies:

• Become informed citizens and voters,

• Understand their rights and responsibilities,

• Analyze government actions and hold leaders accountable,

• Make sense of political events, conflicts, and reforms,

• Contribute actively to democracy and good governance.

Conclusion

Political science is more than just the study of politics; it is a vital discipline that helps us understand the power structures, decisions, and institutions that shape our world. Whether you're analyzing elections, studying constitutions, or exploring global relations, political science offers the tools to interpret and influence the political landscape.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and complex, the role of political science becomes ever more important. In essence, political science helps bridge the gap between citizens and their governments, ensuring that democracy remains vibrant and responsive.