Political theory is an academic discipline and branch of social science that studies the ideas, concepts, principles, and values underlying political systems, institutions, and communities. It explores fundamental questions about power, authority, justice, governance, rights, democracy, and the common good, as well as the ethical and moral implications of political decisions and actions
. It serves as a conceptual bridge between political philosophy and political science, addressing topics such as the nature and limits of state power, the relationship between individuals and the state, forms of government, citizenship, and political ideologies like liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism, and others
. Historically, political theory has roots in classical works by thinkers such as Aristotle, Plato, Machiavelli, and Enlightenment philosophers like Rousseau and Kant. It has evolved through classical, modern, and contemporary phases, blending normative (what ought to be) and empirical (what is) approaches to understand and critique political life
. Political theorists use methods including historical analysis, comparative study, and normative reasoning to analyze political ideas and practices, aiming both to explain political phenomena and to propose ways to improve society and governance
. In summary, political theory provides a systematic study of politics by examining the principles that guide political communities and institutions, the ideologies that shape governance, and the ethical foundations of political life
