Political science is the scientific and systematic study of politics, government systems, and power dynamics at local, national, and international levels. It examines how power is distributed and exercised, how governments and political institutions operate, and how political decisions and policies are made and implemented
. Key aspects of political science include:
- Political Institutions: Study of legislatures, executives, judiciaries, political parties, interest groups, and media, focusing on their structure, functions, and interactions within political systems
- Political Behavior: Analysis of how individuals and groups engage in politics, including voting patterns, public opinion, political participation, and motivations behind political actions
- Political Theory: Exploration of political ideas, ideologies, and philosophies that shape political systems and behavior, such as democracy, authoritarianism, justice, and equality
- International Relations: Study of interactions among states and global actors, including diplomacy, conflicts, trade, and the role of international organizations
Political science uses empirical and scientific methods such as surveys, data analysis, case studies, and comparative research to understand and predict political phenomena. It is both descriptive—explaining how political systems function—and normative—sometimes offering policy recommendations
. The field is interdisciplinary, drawing from sociology, economics, psychology, and history, but is distinct in its focus on power and governance. It serves practical purposes by informing governments, NGOs, political parties, and the public, and political scientists often work as advisors, analysts, or policymakers
. Historically, Aristotle is considered the father of political science, having laid foundational ideas about the state and government
. In summary, political science is the study of the allocation and exercise of power and the functioning of political systems, aiming to understand and sometimes influence governance and public policy
